Abstract: A process for producing a heteropolysaccharide by a bacterial fermentation procedure in which a species of bacteria or a mutant thereof is incubated in a fermentation medium which contains a carbon source, preferably a hydrolyxed starch, a source of magnesium ions, a source of phosphorous, a source of nitrogen and water with the incubation taking place at a temperature of about 28.degree. to about 35.degree. C.

Abstract: A drilling fluid containing a novel heteropolysaccharide, Heteropolysaccharide S-7. A method for the drilling of oil wells, gas wells and the like which involves the circulation of the above drilling fluid within the well bore.

Abstract: A process for producing a novel heteropolysaccharide by a bacterial fermentation in which a new bacteria is incubated in a final fermentation medium containing a suitable carbohydrate source, a source of magnesium ions, a source of phosphorus and nitrogen, and water, the incubation taking place at a temperature of about 25 to 35.degree.C. for about 35 to 60 hours. The heteropolysaccharide produced by the above process are used to thicken aqueous media. Compositions containing the above polysaccharide in combination with certain salts containing di- and trivalent metal ions are useful for example, in drilling fluids, paint compositions, polishes and as additives for foods.

Abstract: A process for producing a heteropolysaccharide by a bacterial fermentation procedure in which a new species of bacteria is incubated in a fermentation medium which contains a carbon source, preferably a hydrolyzed starch, a source of magnesium ions, a source of phosphorous, a source of nitrogen and water with the incubation taking place at a temperature of about 28.degree. to about 35.degree.C. The heteropolysaccharide produced by the above fermentation process. A thickened aqueous media containing an effective quantity of the heteropolysaccharide to thicken the media.