Advances in Fungal Removal of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Abstract

Many studies on the bioremediation of PAHs-contaminated soils have shown that fungi are often more effective than bacteria for PAHs depletion. Fungi can survive better in contaminated environments because their mycelial growth can penetrate the soil layer and get close to the source of contamination, which can improve the bioavailability of soil organic pollutants; and have better tolerance to toxins. field et al reported in their study eight strains of white rot fungi that all had the ability to degrade PAHs, including strain Bjerkandera sp. BOS55 showed a 28-day removal rate of 99.2% and 83% for anthracene and benzo[a]pyrene, respectively.