Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Bioremediation is the process of using microorganisms to degrade or detoxify pollutants from the environment. It leverages natural microbial metabolic processes to clean up contaminated sites.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Bioremediation relies on bacteria, fungi, or plants to neutralize contaminants like heavy metals, oil spills, and pesticides.
The effectiveness of bioremediation depends on environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and nutrient availability.
There are two main types: in situ (treatment at the site) and ex situ (removal of contaminants for treatment elsewhere).
Microorganisms used in bioremediation can be naturally occurring or genetically engineered for enhanced performance.
Key metabolic pathways involved include aerobic respiration, anaerobic digestion, and co-metabolism.
Review Questions
Related terms
Bioaugmentation: The addition of specific strains of bacteria to accelerate biodegradation.
Biostimulation: The modification of environmental conditions to stimulate existing bacteria capable of bioremediation.
Phytoremediation: The use of plants to absorb, sequester, and detoxify pollutants from soil and water.