Bioremediation of Heavy Metals From Contaminated Sites Using Potential Species: A Review

摘要

Heavy metals in wastewater, soil and sediment is a major concern of environmental pollution. A wide range of organic and inorganic compounds causes contamination. Heavy metals are major component of inorganic contaminants and cannot be degraded. The cleanup of such type of contaminants from environment usually requires their removal. Several conventional technologies have already been used for their removal but most of them are cost effective and not successful to get optimum results. Currently, a vast array of biological materials, especially bacteria, algae, yeasts and fungi have received increasing attention for heavy metal removal and recovery due to their good performance, low cost and large available quantities. In view of this, the paper reviews deeply about bioremediation technology and mechanism of heavy metal uptake by microorganisms. It also provides sources and effects of various heavy metals on plants and human health. Some potential species of microorganisms and plants which are commonly used for heavy metal removal are also reported.