Could a virus improve the taste of Brisbane's water?

A bacteria-killing virus called a bacteriophage — or phage — could prevent the growth of bacteria on water pipes that produces off-flavours and smells, according to Ipek Kurtböke, an environmental microbiologist from the University of the Sunshine Coast.

A phage is harmless to humans and it’s a natural alternative to chemical control, according to the USC Senior Lecturer.

“We can develop bacteriophage biocontrol systems in a laboratory to attack naturally occurring odorous bacteria, and then apply the systems to outdoor cases,” she said.

“We have proven in the USC lab that the system can be used to break up sea foam as well as remove geosmin-producing actinomycetes (bacteria) from different surfaces, which are likely contributors to Brisbane’s drinking water issues,” Dr Kurtböke said.

Actinomycetes are bacteria found in water and soil that assist decomposition of organic materials. However, they can also produce geosmin, which is the musty smell in water and crops.

Dr Kurtböke specialises in the application of phages. Her most recent collaborative research paper identified a system that could control an off-flavour taint in fish aquaculture ponds. Her experience in this field goes back to the 1980s in the United Kingdom, when she was a PhD student at the University of Liverpool, where joint research with London Metropolitan Water was taking place on geosmin-producing actinomycetes.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/New Africa