Following sample collection and screening at a number of Mn-associated mine sites in Northern Australia, a microbial strain was selected for its enhanced rate of Mn uptake. The strain was identified by phylogenetic analysis as a Rhizobium sp. Kinetic studies of Mn(II) uptake and oxidation by this strain in glucose-based media established that the uptake of Mn(II) was much greater than the conversion of Mn(II) to Mn oxide. Chemical analysis and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the production of significant amounts of polysaccharides by this strain. These polysaccharides may play a role both in enhancing Mn(II) accumulation and in minimizing Mn oxide production.