Diversity and Niche of Archaea in Bioremediation.

Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms for the degradation or removal of contaminants. Most bioremediation research has focused on processes performed by the domain ; however, are known to play important roles in many situations. In extreme conditions, such as halophilic or acidophilic environments, are well suited for bioremediation. In other conditions, collaboratively work alongside during biodegradation. In this review, the various roles that have in bioremediation is covered, including halophilic hydrocarbon degradation, acidophilic hydrocarbon degradation, hydrocarbon degradation in nonextreme environments such as soils and oceans, metal remediation, acid mine drainage, and dehalogenation. Research needs are addressed in these areas. Beyond bioremediation, these processes are important for wastewater treatment (particularly industrial wastewater treatment) and help in the understanding of the natural microbial ecology of several genera.