Microbial-mediated lindane bioremediation

Abstract

Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), commonly known as lindane, is the term which collectively identifies the eight isomers of the HCH. The lindane has only insecticidal properties and also considered as most toxic isomer of the HCH. The lindane has been listed as a persistent organic pollutant (POPs) under Stockholm Convention on June 29, 2005. More than 52 countries not only globally banned for its formulation but also use of lindane in any form. After knowing facts regarding its toxicity, persistence nature, and bioaccumulation, some countries are still producing and exporting the lindane on large scale. The countries involved in lindane formulation are creating dumping sites which are the major source of lindane contamination to the adjoining area. The lindane deposited in the cultivated soils is also affecting to the non-target organisms. Apart from this, scientists start working on its degradation and find out that bioremediation is the easiest, cheapest, and safest way to remove the lindane from contaminated sites. Bioremediation by the microalgae could help in decontaminating polluted aquatic ecosystems and in cleaning the effluents before they are discharged into aquatic systems. Many microorganisms show tremendous potential in lindane degradation. The present review article describes about all known possible lindane-degrading microorganisms used for its bioremediation and also concise advanced techniques used for this purpose.