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Harnessing an Algae–Bacteria Symbiosis System: Innovative Strategies for Enhancing Complex Wastewater Matrices Treatment

Author

Listed:
  • Wantong Zhao

    (School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, China
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Kun Tian

    (Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
    National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs, Chongqing 402460, China
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Lan Zhang

    (Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing 210042, China)

  • Ye Tang

    (School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, China)

  • Ruihuan Chen

    (School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, China)

  • Xiangyong Zheng

    (School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, China)

  • Min Zhao

    (School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, China)

Abstract

Complex wastewater matrices hinder the efficacy of conventional treatment methods due to the presence of various inorganic and organic pollutants, along with their intricate interactions. Leveraging the synergy between algae and bacteria, algal–bacterial symbiosis (ABS) systems offering an evolutionary and highly effective approach. The ABS system demonstrates 10–30% higher removal efficiency than conventional biological/physicochemical methods under identical conditions, especially at low C/N ratios. Recent advances in biology techniques and big data analytics have deepened our understanding of the synergistic mechanisms involved. Despite the system’s considerable promise, challenges persist concerning complex pollution scenarios and scaling it for industrial applications, particularly regarding system design, environmental adaptability, and stable operation. In this review, we explore the current forms and operational modes of ABS systems, discussing relevant mechanisms in various wastewater treatment contexts. Furthermore, we examine the advantages and limitations of ABS systems in treating complex wastewater matrices, highlighting challenges and proposing future directions.

Suggested Citation

  • Wantong Zhao & Kun Tian & Lan Zhang & Ye Tang & Ruihuan Chen & Xiangyong Zheng & Min Zhao, 2025. "Harnessing an Algae–Bacteria Symbiosis System: Innovative Strategies for Enhancing Complex Wastewater Matrices Treatment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-32, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:7104-:d:1718191
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Sherif Abd-Elmaksoud & Sayeda M. Abdo & Mahmoud Gad & Anyi Hu & Mohamed Azab El-Liethy & Neveen Rizk & Mohamed A. Marouf & Ibrahim A. Hamza & Hala S. Doma, 2021. "Pathogens Removal in a Sustainable and Economic High-Rate Algal Pond Wastewater Treatment System," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(23), pages 1-13, November.
    2. Bernhard Tschitschko & Mertcan Esti & Miriam Philippi & Abiel T. Kidane & Sten Littmann & Katharina Kitzinger & Daan R. Speth & Shengjie Li & Alexandra Kraberg & Daniela Tienken & Hannah K. Marchant &, 2024. "Rhizobia–diatom symbiosis fixes missing nitrogen in the ocean," Nature, Nature, vol. 630(8018), pages 899-904, June.
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