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Microbial communities, processes and functions in acid mine drainage ecosystems
Lin-xing Chen1, Li-nan Huang1, Celia Méndez-García2
1State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Resources, College of Ecology and Evolution, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, PR China.
Current Opinion in Biotechnology
|February 28, 2016
Summary
Acid mine drainage (AMD) is caused by metal sulfide oxidation, often accelerated by microbes. This review covers microbial roles, diversity, and biotechnological uses in AMD ecosystems for biomining and remediation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Geochemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Acid mine drainage (AMD) results from the oxidative dissolution of metal sulfides, a process exacerbated by microbial activity.
- Human mining operations are the primary cause of AMD generation.
- Indigenous microorganisms play a significant role in accelerating sulfide oxidation and acid production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diversity and functions of microorganisms within AMD ecosystems.
- To discuss the biotechnological applications of AMD microorganisms.
- To provide a comprehensive understanding of microbial roles in AMD.
Main Methods:
- Culture-dependent studies to identify microbial roles in sulfide oxidation.
- Culture-independent studies to reveal microbial diversity and metabolic potential.
- Literature review of existing research on AMD microbiology and applications.
Main Results:
- Microorganisms are key drivers of sulfide oxidation and acid generation in AMD.
- Diverse microbial communities inhabit AMD ecosystems with significant metabolic capabilities.
- AMD microorganisms have demonstrated potential in biomining and bioremediation.
Conclusions:
- Microbial diversity and functions are critical to understanding AMD ecosystems.
- Biotechnological applications of AMD microbes offer sustainable solutions for biomining and environmental remediation.
- Further research can optimize the use of these microorganisms for industrial and environmental benefits.
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