Production and Characterization of exopolysaccharides excreted by thermophilic bacteria from shallow, marine hydrothermal vents of flegrean areas (Italy)

Thermophilic microorganisms, aerobic or facultatively anaerobic, endospore forming with growth optima temperatures in the range of 60-80°C, have been isolated from hot marine springs around Ischia and from hydrothermal wents in the gulf of Naples. Mucous colonies are been selected for the recovery of new strains producing exopolysaccharides. The selective media induced the production of the polysaccharides. Chemical and spectroscopic studies allowed as to establish the chemical structures of some polysaccharides.