EVERETT — Testing of an unknown orange slimy substance found in the runoff near the Riverside construction side has confirmed that is iron bacteria.
The slime was discovered by several walkers along one of the paths near the Lowell Riverfront Trail.
Iron bacteria thrive in anaerobic environments underground, converting iron oxides into oxygen for food. When exposed to a more oxygen-rich environment, the bacteria converts some of it back into iron oxides, which results in a brown or orange sheen.
Most of the bacteria in samples taken Friday were found to be Crenothrix polyspora encrusted with iron particles, said Marla Carter, a spokeswoman for Everett’s public works department. The bacteria does not pose an environmental health risk.
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