Streptomyces sp: A source of odorous substances in potable water

Growth medium containing an aquatic actinomycete Streptomyces sp. was analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry for the purpose of identifying substances that may represent potential odorous contaminants of water. Twenty-one odorous and nonodorous compounds were identified. Phenyl, C₂, and C₄ structures were predominant. Free fatty acids from C₁₃ to C₁₆ were detected and in some cases accompanied by their ethyl (C₁₆) and butyl (C₁₅ and C₁₆) esters. The long-chain acids and esters had no detectable odor. Although goesmin, an earthy smelling substance with a low odor threshold, was detected, butyric acid was the principal metabolite under the growth conditions employed and represented the greatest potential as an odorous water pollutant under natural conditions.