Heavy Metal Removal from Industrial Wastewater Using Fungi: Uptake Mechanism and Biochemical Aspects

Abstract

In this review, recent developments pertaining to the use of fungi as biosorbent for heavy metals removal from wastewater has been presented with critical analysis of the present status of the subject. Undoubtedly fungi have emerged as an interesting biosorbent family. They are superior to other microorganisms as they can be easily grown, produce large biomass, and genetic and morphological manipulation is easily possible with them. Various aspects of this field, such as classification, general characteristics, composition and role of the cell wall, and metal uptake mechanisms have been critically analyzed. The superiority of dead biomass of fungi and immobilization was paid enough attention. The use of fungal species as biosensors for metal detection in the environment was also presented.