Acid Producing Bacteria

Acid Producing Bacteria (APB). APB are known for reducing the pH of their environment (making it more acidic), and by facilitating the adhesion of SRB. Most acid producing bacteria are aerobic (breathe O₂) and consume carbohydrates. Due to their metabolism, they produce organic acids (carbonic acid, lactic acid, among others) which contribute to corrosion. Some APB are also able to survive in environments without oxygen and causing the same type of organic acids responsible for localized corrosion. Unlike aerobic acid producers that have the potential to grow in most O₂-rich environments, the anaerobic ones prefer closed water systems and gas transmission lines.