Bacillus licheniformis

Bacillus licheniformis is a bacteria commonly found in the soil. Recently, studies have also shown that it is found on bird feathers, especially chest and back plumage, and most often in ground dwelling birds (like sparrows) and aquatic species (like ducks).

It is a gram positive, thermophillic bacteria. Optimal growth temperature is around 50 degrees celsius, though it can survive at much higher temperatures. Optimal temperature for enzyme secretion is 37 degrees celsius. It can exist in spore form to resist harsh environs, or in a vegetative state when conditions are good.

A lot of research is being done right now exploring its ability to degrade feathers for agricultural purposes. Feathers contain high amounts of non digestible proteins, but researchers hope that by fementation with B. Licheniformis, they can use waste feathers to produce cheap and nutritious feather meal to feed to livestock.

Ecological research is also being done looking at the interaction between plumage colors and b licheniformis activity, and the consequences thereof. Feather degrading bacteria may have played an important role in the evolution of molt, and patterns in feather coloration (Gloger's Rule).

For more information,

Isolation, Identification, and Characterization of a Feather Degrading Bacteria, Williams et al, 1990

Bacterial Degradation of Black and White Feathers, Goldstein et al, 2003