Intermediate grants (2025)

Monitoring and Molecular Characterization of Heavy Metal-Tolerant Bacteria Isolated from “Hotspots” in the Republic of North Macedonia

Project Lead: Sofija Kostandinovska

Human activities significantly impact the biosphere, causing irreversible changes that disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems, with urban pollution by heavy metals becoming an increasing focus of research.   Changes in soil pH can disrupt microbial metabolism by inhibiting pH-dependent enzymes and altering nutrient availability, which may be toxic to bacteria.   Alterations in the physico-chemical properties of the soil further affect microbial communities, potentially reducing ecosystem functions such as organic matter decomposition.  Microorganisms are ideal for bioremediation due to their widespread presence, rapid reproduction, and adaptability. They can degrade and metabolize contaminants as an energy source, making them an economical and environmentally friendly alternative. Understanding the physico-chemical properties of soil and the microorganisms present in so-called “hot spots” can aid in developing remediation techniques aimed at reducing the concentration or bioavailability of heavy metals.

Research Objectives

• What is the difference between the physico-chemical and molecular characterization of bacteria isolated from “hot spots”? (Q1);
• The abundance and diversity of heavy metal-tolerant bacteria vary across different “hot spots” due to variations in metal concentrations and soil physico-chemical properties. (H1);
• The bacterial abundance in different “hot spots” decreases as heavy metal concentrations increase, due to selective pressure limiting bacterial diversity. (H2);
• Bacterial isolates from heavy metal-contaminated soils exhibit varying degrees of metal tolerance depending on the type and concentration of metals. (H3);
• The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of isolated bacteria will be highest for the metals present in the highest concentrations in the soil. (H4);
• Some bacterial isolates can tolerate multiple heavy metals, suggesting the presence of a cross-resistance mechanism. (H5)

Methodology

The methodology includes the isolation of bacteria from different “hot spots” in North Macedonia, the determination of the physico-chemical properties of the soil, molecular characterization, and the assessment of bacterial viability percentages at various heavy metal concentrations.

Scientific Contribution (Ecology)

By isolating heavy metal-tolerant bacteria and investigating their bioremediation potential, insights into microbial resistance will be gained, offering strategies for restoring ecosystem functions, improving soil quality, and preserving biodiversity in contaminated environments.

Detection of Microplastic Presence in the Living Organisms of Lake Ohrid

Project Lead: Ivo Ilinchev

The project aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in the living organisms of Lake Ohrid through the analysis of samples from various biological groups (fish, invertebrates, aquatic plants) and their contamination with synthetic particles. Advanced analytical methods such as FTIR, Raman and microscopic analysis will be applied for the detection and characterization of microplastics. This research will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of microplastics on the lake ecosystem and propose measures to minimize pollution.

Research Objectives

• Detection and analysis of microplastics in benthos and various organisms in Lake Ohrid (P1)

• Raising public awareness of this issue (P2)

Methodology

Samples are collected from selected locations in Lake Ohrid. Organic matter is removed through digestion, followed by microplastic extraction and filtration. Detection and identification are conducted through optical microscopy, and qualitative analysis is performed using vibrational spectroscopy techniques (FTIR and Raman).

Scientific Contribution (Ecology)

A qualitative assessment of microplastic pollution in Lake Ohrid across different taxonomic groups will enable better understanding of its biodistribution, transmission pathways, and ecological risks. This will provide scientifically grounded measures for protecting the lake’s ecosystem, its endemic species, and for developing protection and sustainable management strategies.

Assessment of the Effectiveness i.e. Permeability of Viaducts as Corridors for Mammals with Emphasis on Large Carnivores in the Directions Gostivar – Straza and Kamen Dol – Pletvar – Prilep

Project Lead: Slobodan Kutanovski

This project aims to systematically assess the permeability of viaducts as potential corridors for wildlife movement of the class mammals, particularly carnivores which are most affected in the aspect of conservation efforts, because of their ecology: the large spans of their territories, preference for specific forest habitats and long distance movements. The methodological approach includes automated camera traps to monitor wildlife movement through viaducts over 12 month period. The significance of these viaducts will be calculated in relation to their length and traffic frequency throughout the year. The data obtained will provide a basis for improving the road permeability measures in Macedonia to improve the ecological connectivity of the transport infrastructure. The work will be published in a scientific paper with significant implications for spatial and infrastructure planning, which will be based on scientifically based opinions.

Research Objectives

• Do large mammals use viaducts to cross under main roads, and which species do so? (P1)

• Does traffic frequency affect the willingness of animals to use viaducts? (P2)

• Is there a seasonal pattern of wildlife crossings? (P3)

• Is there a correlation between species composition and structural characteristics of viaducts? (P4)

• Viaduct permeability is directly proportional to their length. (H1)

• Longer viaducts, especially those without pipes, are more effective for wildlife crossings. (H2)

Methodology

• Mapping, defining, categorizing, and analyzing viaducts

• Selecting and placing camera traps on all mapped viaducts on the Gostivar-Straza and Pletvar routes

• Monthly traffic observations and monitoring of camera traps

• Data entry, database creation, and desktop statistical analysis

• Writing and submitting the scientific paper (this should be added to the Excel and time planned accordingly: it is recommended to use the entire project timeframe and reserve the final 6 months for the paper)

Scientific Contribution (Ecology)

The paper will provide data on the effectiveness of viaducts as corridors, as well as the impact of traffic frequency on wildlife movement. These findings will serve as a potential foundation for strategies to minimize ecosystem fragmentation effects and improve conservation measures at the national level.