You Have Found The Satan...!

Hello...! My Name is Nocardia spp...!
Characteristics : Irregularly - bent, short filaments, 1.0 micron in diameter and 10 - 20 micron in length, found mostly within the floc, but may occur free in bulk solution. A branched (true branching) mycelium often is observed. No sheath and no attached growth. Cell shape is somewhat irregular (1.0 x 1.0 - 2.0 micron) and septa without constrictions are present. Gram positive and Neisser negative, and Neisser - positive granules commonly are observed. No sulfur granules. PHB commonly is observed. Abundance of this organism is best assessed from the Gram stained preparation.

Identification : Relatively short, non-motile filaments (10-20 µm). Irregularly bent filaments with true branching and cell septa without constrictions. Branched mycelium is often observed on this filament. Cells are irregular (1.0 x 1.0-2.0 µm). Filaments are found within the floc structure causing open, lacy, diffuse floc or free in the bulk solution. The filament staining is strongly Gram positive and Neisser negative with Neisser positive granules observed frequently. Short clear spaces may occur in the filament. Usually easy to identify due to its staining characteristics and branching. Intracellular PHB granules frequently observed. No sulfur granules. No attached growth or sheath present. It is the most common cause of foaming, not bulking. Causes floating sludge.

Similar Organisms : Microthrix parvicella lacks the branching that Nocardia has, although it is similar.

Environment : This filament is usually found in environments where there low F/M (0.08-0.35 lbs BOD) and with a long MCRT (10-40 days). High wastewater grease, oil and fat content may also be a cause. Found more commonly in the warmer temperatures.

Control : Reducing sludge age helps. If possible increase grease and fat control on the influent if applicable. Use of a selector helps control filamentous growth. Antifoams usually are needed to physically control the foam initially or water sprays with chlorine.

Rank : Nocordia ranks 1^st in number of predominance. Common in over 50 % of sludge.

Types : Various types of Nocardia exist with different appearances. Nocardia pinensis appears in clusters with a typical "pine tree-like" branching effect with many open, long, individual branches. Nocardia amarae appears as short fragments of right angled branches in varying lengths.