Extremophiles and Their Application in Bioremediation

Abstract

A microorganism dwelling in severe environmental conditions is termed an extremophile. These unfavorable environmental conditions include high salinity, toxin compounds, heavy metals, unfavorable temperature, and extremely acidic and alkaline pH. Microorganisms belonging to prokaryotes include true bacteria and archaea bacteria which prevail in harsh environments. In recent years, extremophilic, basically, archaea bacteria have been reported for their immense potential application in the bioremediation process. Bioremediation is a technique that utilizes microorganisms for the decomposition of organic and inorganic pollutants; anthropogenic activities are the basic cause of soil pollution, water pollution, and air pollution globally. Extremophiles are capable of producing enzymes that are thermolabile and can function normally even in extreme conditions. These enzymes and proteins can be utilized in the bioremediation process under extreme pH, heavy metal stress, and unfavorable temperature conditions. In this chapter, the role of extremophiles in bioremediation is discussed.