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Abstract
The diatom assemblages within phototrophic biofilms in secondary treatment tanks of the Fiumicino Airport (Rome, Italy) wastewater treatment plant were investigated. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons were made between assemblages in sedimentation and chlorination tanks, on the tank walls and artificial substrata, on four sampling occasions. The assemblages were characterised by a rather stable species composition, low species diversity and dominance of raphid taxa. Correspondence analysis of diatom relative abundance data with regard to seasonal, site and substratum variation revealed both temporal and spatial differences in species assemblages. Rather than species composition changing over time between different sampling sites and surfaces, the proportional contributions of individual species to the assemblages varied with season. Biovolume data indicated that this outdoor system supported extensive diatom growth (high diatom biomass productivity). The potential use of autochthonous, diatom biofilms in tertiary wastewater treatment (removal of residual nutrients and pollutants) as opposed to conventional physico-chemical technologies is discussed with respect to the protection of receiving water bodies and the development of sustainable waste treatment.