Role of Microorganisms in Bioremediation of Pesticides

Abstract

This chapter describes how exposure to pesticides has become one of the most prominent components of current agriculture. Pesticides have high impact on farmer's economy as they prevent and minimize agricultural losses due to pests (insects, fungi, nematode), improve yield and quality food in terms of superficial appeal. However, these synthetic pesticides have serious environmental concerns and create a variety of toxic effects in living beings. In this regard, the bioremediation approach can be a suitable alternative over the conventional treatment methods for the treatment of pesticides-contaminated sites. Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms or their enzymes to degrade and detoxify the pesticide from the environment. Microbial interactions greatly influence natural bio remedial processes occurring in soil. Microorganisms involved various biochemical mechanisms for the degradation of pesticides, such as oxidation and reduction reactions. This chapter provides an overview on the nature, characteristics and toxicity of pesticides in environment and role of microbes in bioremediation of pesticides.