Insights on the Role of Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria in Acid Mine Drainage Biogeochemistry

Abstract

Wastes liberation from mining operations has occurred for quite a few centuries, and quarrying has advanced considerably in the twentieth century. Minerals excavating and their further processing generate enormous amounts of waste rocks and tailings, commonly rich in sulfide compounds. Exposure of sulfide-containing minerals to water and air, and actions of indigenous bacterial inhabitants cause the formation and discharge of acid mine drainage (AMD), an acidic flow out comprising of huge amounts of heavy metals and sulfate ions. Sulfur oxidizing bacteria of diverse genera assist in the oxidation of sulfide minerals via different catabolic systems. The huge amount of acidic waste drainage containing soluble metals in the mining associated sites poses a serious environmental hazard. To prevent AMD formation, extensive research studies have been devoted to the mechanisms of oxidation and its prevention. This manuscript reviews the existing state of acid mine drainage and the potential of diverse bacteria associated with sulfur metabolism. Further, this study focuses on the effect of AMD on living organisms and the precise remediation actions which may be relevant to achieve long-term sustainable and cost-effective strategies for the management of mining operations and the associated hazards.

Keywords:

• Acid mine drainage
• metal sulfides
• sulfate
• sulfur-oxidizing bacteria

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan for providing their necessary support and encouragement.

Disclosure statement

No potential competing interest was reported by the authors.