GeoChip-based analysis of microbial functional gene diversity in a landfill leachate-contaminated aquifer

Environmental Science & Technology
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Abstract

The functional gene diversity and structure of microbial communities in a shallow landfill leachate-contaminated aquifer were assessed using a comprehensive functional gene array (GeoChip 3.0). Water samples were obtained from eight wells at the same aquifer depth immediately below a municipal landfill or along the predominant downgradient groundwater flowpath. Functional gene richness and diversity immediately below the landfill and the closest well were considerably lower than those in downgradient wells. Mantel tests and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) suggested that various geochemical parameters had a significant impact on the subsurface microbial community structure. That is, leachate from the unlined landfill impacted the diversity, composition, structure, and functional potential of groundwater microbial communities as a function of groundwater pH, and concentrations of sulfate, ammonia, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Historical geochemical records indicate that all sampled wells chronically received leachate, and the increase in microbial diversity as a function of distance from the landfill is consistent with mitigation of the impact of leachate on the groundwater system by natural attenuation mechanisms.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title GeoChip-based analysis of microbial functional gene diversity in a landfill leachate-contaminated aquifer
Series title Environmental Science & Technology
DOI 10.1021/es300478j
Volume 46
Issue 11
Year Published 2012
Language English
Publisher American Chemical Society
Publisher location Washington, D.C.
Contributing office(s) Oklahoma Water Science Center
Description 10 p.
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Environmental Science and Technology
First page 5824
Last page 5833
Country United States
State Oklahoma
County Cleveland
City Norman
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