Biodegradation of aromatic compounds by microalgae

Abstract

The microbial degradation of aromatic pollutants has been well characterized over a period of more than 30 years. The microbes of most interest have been bacteria and fungi. Only relatively recently has the question of how algae figure in the catabolism of these compounds attracted a degree of interest. The aim of this review is to highlight the biodegradative capabilities of microalgae on aromatic compounds, ranging from simple monocyclic to more complex polycyclic pollutants. This paper will briefly encompass studies which have investigated the growth on and the oxidation of these compounds by algae, as well as a more detailed characterization of the catabolic sequences involved in the transformation of these compounds.

Increase in biodegradation of dimethyl phthalate by Closterium lunula using inorganic carbon

“…Although bacteria play a key role in the biodegradation of organic pollutant, recent studies indicated that, in addition to providing oxygen for aerobic bacterial biodegradation, microalgae can also biodegrade organic pollutants directly (Semple et al, 1999). It was reported that more than 30 azo compounds were biodegraded and decolorized by Chlorella pyrenoidosa, Chlorella vulgaris and Oscillateria tenuis, in which azo dyes were decomposed into simpler aromatic amine (Liu and Liu, 1992).…”

Cellular responses and bioremoval of nonylphenol and octylphenol in the freshwater green microalga Scenedesmus obliquus

“…As primary producer in aquatic ecosystems, microalgae play an important role in generating primary organic substances and it is the base of aquatic food-chain. Algae can interact with aquatic contaminants, which include negative effects on algal growth and function and algal degradation of the contaminants (Semple et al, 1999;Wang et al, 2007;Yang et al, 2002). Algae may also take up aquatic contaminants, thereby acting as a medium for bioconcentration and subsequent biomagnification in higher trophic levels (Sijm et al, 1998;Soares et al, 2008;Vazquez-Duhalt et al, 2005).…”

Green remediation. Tool for safe and sustainable environment: a review

“…Naphthalene, DDT Biswas et al (2015) Chlorella sp. Naphthalene Semple et al (1999) Dunaliella sp. Mirex Priyadarshani et al bioremediation is an eco-friendly, cost-effective, precisely sensible technique for resolving the environment problems.…”

“…However, the conventional techniques are used often, but they can only transform their form; therefore, the next generation water treatment techniques are in high demand. Algal Scenedesmus obliquus DDT, parathion Semple et al (1999) Dunaliella sp., Cylindrotheca sp. Naphthalene, DDT Biswas et al (2015) Chlorella sp.…”