Microalgae as Bioremediators of Polluted Ecosystems

Background: Phytoremediation, defined as the use of green plants and algae to remove pollutants from the environment represents one of the most globally researched issues and is becoming a subject of intense public and scientific interest and a topic of many recent reviews. Microalgae rapidly colonizing lakes and waterways attract significant attention because of their unprecedented growth rates, bioremediation capacity and easy maintenance. Methods: Physical, chemical and biochemical methods related to treatment and analysis of wastewater components is reviewed. Results: This review describes microalgal-assisted bioremediation of wastewaters, and highlights recent developments in efficient treatment of wide spectrum of pollutants. Conclusion: The involvement of microalgae in bioremediation has been well studied and in almost all instances microalgae have achieved the investigators expectations. Apart from playing an important role in controlling, biomonitoring of organic and inorganic pollutants in aquatic ecosystems microalgae can play role in bioremediating and restoration of polluted ecosystems.