Bioremoval capacity of phenol by some selected endophytic fungi isolated from and batch biodegradation of phenol in paper and pulp effluents.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The use of endophytic fungi for management of phenol residue in paper and pulp industries has been shown as cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. In this study, isolation of endophytic fungi from roots, stems, and leaves of was conducted. Additionally, the isolated fungi were examined for their ability to degrade phenol and its derivatives in paper and pulp industrial samples, using different growth conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Out of 35 isolated endophyitc fungi, 31 were examined for their phenol biodegradation capacity using Czapek Dox broth medium containing Catechol and Resorcinol as a sole carbon source at final concentrations of 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8%.

RESULTS

A total of 35 fungal species belonging to 18 fungal genera were isolated and identified from different parts of plants. All strains have the capability for degrading phenol and their derivatives with variable extents. The optimum condition of degrading phenol in paper and pulp effluent samples by 11r7 were at pH 3-5, temperature at 28-35°C, good agitation speed at no agitation and 100 rpm.

CONCLUSION

All endophytic fungal species can utilize phenol and its derivatives as a carbon source and be the potential to degrade phenol in industrial contaminants.