Pigmented Microorganisms from Solar Salt Pans

The Department of Microbiology at St. Joseph Vaz College, in collaboration with the Research Development Cell (RDC) and Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), hosted an insightful seminar titled “Pigmented Microorganisms from Solar Salt Pans” on 13th January 2025.

Dr. Bhakti Salgaonkar, Assistant Professor, Microbiology discipline, School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Goa University, served as the resource person. The event commenced with a prayer led by Ms. Isha Gomes, a second-year BSc Microbiology student. Ms. Angela Serrao, Acting Principal, extended a warm welcome to Dr. Salgaonkar, presenting her with a potted plant as a token of appreciation.

In her captivating presentation, Dr. Salgaonkar introduced students to the remarkable world of pigmented microorganisms inhabiting hypersaline environments like solar salt pans. These microorganisms thrive despite extreme salinity, intense sunlight, and limited nutrients, producing vibrant pigments that play crucial roles in survival and adaptation.

Dr. Salgaonkar highlighted the protective role of microbial pigmentation against UV radiation and osmotic stress, emphasizing their industrial applications as antioxidants and antimicrobials in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries. She encouraged students to explore entrepreneurial ventures utilizing these microbial metabolites, fostering innovation and self-reliance.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Aureen Lemos Godinho Gomes, Assistant Professor and faculty coordinator, and was efficiently compered by Ms. Anezia Barretto, a second-year BSc Microbiology student.

The seminar inspired students to delve deeper into research and entrepreneurial opportunities in microbiology, highlighting the vast potential of extremophiles in scientific and industrial applications.

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