Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Mesocosm-Scale Constructed Wetland Design for Wastewater Treatment
Published on: May 2, 2025
Performance of horizontal subsurface-flow treatment wetlands in fecal bacteria removal
C Sacco1, A Pizzo, F Santomauro
1Department of Public Health, University of Florence, Italy. cri.sacco@unifi.it
Abstract:
This work evaluated sub-surface flow (SSF) constructed wetlands and activated sludge plant efficiency in pathogen removal. The two were also compared. The removal of fecal bacteria (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci) was evaluated. Analysis was carried out during one year by determining the amount of bacteria in the inflow and the outflow of four systems: three SSF systems (two were pilot plants and one a fully operating plant) and an activated sludge plant. MPN techniques were used to determine the quantity-value of the microorganisms. Percentages of fecal bacteria removal in wetlands systems were as good as (and sometimes better than) those recorded in the activated sludge plant. Optimal values of these bacteria were obtained in the outflow of the post-treatment pilot plant: very high bacterial removal percentages (>99%) were recorded. SFS constructed wetlands are a valid solution for the final treatment of the outflow of existing plants.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Wastewater Treatment
Biological Treatment of Effluent and Waste Water
Microbial Bioremediation of Hydrocarbons
Microbial Fuel Cells
Bioremediation
Environmental Applications of Microorganisms

