Aims: This project was aimed to study the microbial diversity of the limestone soil and its correlation with the
environment.
Methodology and results: The study was carried out using samples obtained from Gunung Lang, Ipoh, Perak in
August 2013. X-ray diffraction analysis of the rock structure confirmed that the samples were of limestone origin.
Besides that, soil analysis revealed that this area was fertile and rich in nutrients. It therefore served as a suitable habitat
for microorganismal diversity to flourish. This was proven by the 16S rDNA metagenomic analysis which targeted on
16S rDNA variable region V3-V5 using Illumina MiSeq sequencer. Using this approach, a variety of microorganisms was
identified and many yet to be characterized microorganisms were detected from this area.
Conclusion, significance and impact of study: This is the first study in Malaysia that aimed to study the microbial
diversity of limestone soils through metagenomic approach. The study showed that limestone is rich in microbial
diversity and it is a place worth looking for novel microbes and genes of interest in biotechnology.
Calcium Carbonate