Isolation and Characterization of Halophilic Bacteria from Yanbu Coastal Soil

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Biology, College of Science, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

10.21608/bbj.2025.424345.1144

Abstract

Halophilic bacteria play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and biotechnological applications due to their ability to thrive in high salt concentrations. Halophilic bacterial isolates were obtained from Yanbu coastal soil, Saudi Arabia. These bacteria were characterized using morphological, biochemical, and molecular methods. Growth assays across a gradient of NaCl concentrations revealed broad halotolerance, with optimal growth at 3–5% NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene identified the isolates as belonging to genera commonly associated with saline environments. Gaussian niche breadth modelling confirmed their adaptability across varying salinities. Importantly, a preliminary enzyme activity screening demonstrated protease and amylase production in selected isolates, highlighting their potential in industrial biotechnology. These findings provide insight into the diversity and ecological significance of halophilic bacteria in coastal arid soils, while also underlining their potential for applications in saline waste treatment and enzyme-based industries.

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