To Evaluate the Efficacy of Selected Nematode for Decolorizing Two Azo Dyes

This study explores the potential of the nematode Cephalobus cubaensis to decolorize synthetic food dyes Carmacine and Ponceau 4R, emphasizing the process's efficacy and underlying biological mechanisms. Synthetic food dyes, extensively used in various industries, pose significant environmental hazards due to their toxicity, persistence, and potential to produce harmful by-products, such as aromatic amines, through conventional anaerobic treatments. Addressing these issues, biological decolorization has gained interest as an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative. Notably, C. cubaensis can degrade synthetic food dyes by releasing non-specific extracellular enzymes with potent oxidative capabilities, providing a promising pathway for sustainable dye management. This research employs spectroscopy, FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and LCMS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) to analyze the degradation process and confirm the breakdown of dye molecules. These methods help elucidate the structural changes and identify the degradation products, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the decolorization mechanism. The study underscores the importance of moving toward safer alternatives, as synthetic food dyes face regulatory restrictions due to health concerns across countries. By understanding the biological mechanisms of C. cubaensis, this research contributes to an expanding body of literature supporting biological decolorization for its environmental, cost-effective, and sustainable advantages. This is particularly relevant given the global movement toward reducing toxic chemicals in consumer products. By advancing synthetic dye treatment methods, this study promotes sustainable practices for managing dye-contaminated wastewater, highlighting the potential of nematode-based bioremediation as a viable solution.