Iron Bacteria Biofilm in Domestic Wells (Gallionella, Leptothrix, Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria — H2S, Manganese Co-Contamination, Slime, Plumbing Biofouling) — household safety profile
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Iron-bacteria biofilms in private domestic wells are a slime-forming microbial consortium dominated by chemolithotrophic Gallionella ferruginea (stalked, twisted-stalk morphology), Leptothrix ochracea (sheathed), and ribbon-form Crenothrix species.
What is this product?
Iron-bacteria biofilms in private domestic wells are a slime-forming microbial consortium dominated by chemolithotrophic Gallionella ferruginea (stalked, twisted-stalk morphology), Leptothrix ochracea (sheathed), and ribbon-form Crenothrix species. They oxidize ferrous (Fe2+) to ferric (Fe3+) iron, producing the characteristic reddish-brown to orange gelatinous slime that clogs well screens, pump impellers, pressure tanks, and fixture aerators. They are NOT pathogens themselves but they create anoxic micro-environments that harbor sulfate-reducing bacteria (Desulfovibrio, Desulfotomaculum), which in turn produce hydrogen sulfide (H2S) — the rotten-egg odor signal. Manganese-cycling bacteria (Hyphomicrobium, Pedomicrobium) often co-occur, depositing black manganese oxide crusts that compound the iron biofilm. The exposure pattern is consumer-water aesthetic and infrastructure damage rather than acute toxicity, but the secondary drinking-water guidelines (Fe 0.3 mg/L, Mn 0.05 mg/L, sulfate 250 mg/L) are routinely exceeded in affected wells. Manganese has emerged as a neurodevelopmental concern at concentrations far below the iron-staining threshold (Health Canada 0.12 mg/L MAC 2019; WHO provisional guideline value 0.4 mg/L); H2S at >2 mg/L causes nausea and is a documented occupational hazard during well-pit entry. Treatment is shock-chlorination, biofilm physical removal, and continuous chlorination or aeration — all of which introduce their own chemistry. Private wells are EXCLUDED from EPA SDWA enforcement; owner is the regulator.
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Iron Oxide Deposit
Co Contaminant
Biological Byproduct
Co Deposit
Treatment Chemical
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