Solution of apatite by soil microorganisms producing organic acids

Abstract

The solution of phosphate by soil microorganisms producing organic acids was studied in pure culture. Two fungi, an actinomycete, and two bacteria solubilized apatite by formation of acid end-products from carbohydrates. The principal acids produced were lactic, glycollic, citric, and succinic acids. Chemical solutions of the first three of these hydroxy-acids alone solubilized apatite. In the presence of calcium carbonate less phosphate was brought into solution.