Microcosm study reveals the microbial and environmental effects on tributyltin degradation in an estuarine sediment

Tributyltin (TBT) is one of the most harmful contaminants ever released into the aquatic environment. Despite being banned, it is still present at many locations throughout the world. Its degradation in sediment mainly occurs through microbial biodegradation, a process that remains unclear. This study therefore aimed at better understanding TBT biodegradation in estuarine sediment and the microbial community associated with it. Microcosm experiments were set up, embracing a range of environmental control parameters. Major community shifts were recorded, mainly attributed to the change in oxygen status. The highest percentage of degradation (36,8%) occurred at 4 °C in anaerobic conditions. These results are encouraging for the in-situ bioremediation of TBT contaminated muddy sediment in temperate ports worldwide. However, with TBT able to persist in the coastal environment for decades when undisturbed in anoxic sediment, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms that triggered this biodegradation observed in the microcosms.