Relationship between growth and respiration rates in rhodococci grown at high salt concentrations

The, relationship between growth and respiration rates was studied in oil-o xidizing rhodococci grown at salt concentrations typical of natural ecotope s but exceeding those optimal for growth. The growth of rhodococci was foun d to be inhibited by such salt concentrations; however, cells retained thei r viability and could restore a normal respiration rate after transfer to o ptimal growth conditions. Plausible mechanisms are discussed that ensure th e survival of aerobic slightly and moderately halophilic microorganisms in oil strata that contain highly mineralized stratal waters with a low concen tration of dissolved oxygen.