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Silicate bacteria are heterotrophic microorganisms usually found as species of Bacillus circulans and Bacillus mucilaginosus.

Uses
Silicate bacteria are widely used for biological leaching where they destroy the crystal structure of minerals and form soluble compounds of certain metals. For example if silicates (Aluminosilicates) are contaminates then they are able to leach this silicon from low-grade bauxite. The slime that is formed consists of exopolysaccharides.

They are widely used in biological fertilisers.