Microbial biofilm: An advanced eco-friendly approach for bioremediation

Abstract

Microbial biofilm is a new emerging subject for microbiologists to work in the areas of environment, industry, agriculture, and health. Biofilms enhance the proliferation and colonization of microbes on surface and protect cells in an adverse environment. The potential of microbes surrounded by biofilms has recently been realized for bioremediation processes. The mutually beneficial interaction of multiple microorganisms in biofilms attracts attention toward xenobiotics and their uses in industrial plants to degrade pollutants. Microbial biofilms are using in different bioreactors and biofilters for pollutant degradation on a large scale. Although limited information is are available on bioremediation through microbial biofilms, this chapter presents the fundamental aspects of biofilms and their application in the bioremediation field. A better understanding of the role of microbial mechanisms in pollutant tolerance and their degradation can be beneficial for bioremediation strategies. Understanding the mechanisms and genes involved in biofilm formation will help to develop new strategies for bioremediation. © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.