- Microbial leaching involves the process of dissolution of metals from ore breaking rocks using microorganisms.
Which one of the following bacteria helps in leaching copper from its ore?
(1) Acidithiobacillus ferroxidans
(2) Pseudomonas putida.
(3) Deinococcus radiodurans.
(4) Rhodopseudomonas capsulate.Option-wise explanation
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Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans – correct
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This is an acidophilic, chemolithotrophic bacterium that oxidizes ferrous iron and reduced sulfur compounds.
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In copper biomining, it oxidizes metal sulfides (like chalcopyrite) via ferric iron and sulfuric acid, leading to solubilization (leaching) of Cu²⁺ from low‑grade ores.
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Therefore, it is the classical organism used for microbial leaching of copper.
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Pseudomonas putida
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A versatile heterotrophic bacterium widely used for biodegradation of organic pollutants such as toluene and naphthalene.
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It is not a standard agent for copper ore bioleaching.
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Deinococcus radiodurans
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Extremely radiation‑resistant; engineered strains are used in remediation of radioactive mixed wastes and certain metals.
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Its main role is not copper sulfide leaching from ores.
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Rhodopseudomonas capsulata (Rhodopseudomonas capsulata)
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A purple non‑sulfur photosynthetic bacterium involved in studies of photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation.
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It is not the typical bacterium for industrial copper bioleaching.
Hence, the bacterium that helps in leaching copper from its ore in microbial leaching is Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans (option 1).
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