Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

The global output of chemical pollutants in 2020 will be 85% higher than in 1995 due to industrial practices that have resulted in large scale environmental contamination and pollution. These cocktail of pollutants, are contributor to the global epidemic of cancer, and other degenerative diseases. High molecular weight (HMW) polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are one of the most important organic pollutants that are difficult to remove from soil because of their molecular stability, hydrophobicity, low water solubility, and hence slower rate of biodegradation.

In this chapter, use of plant-microbe interaction in rhizosphere for bioremediation (rhizoremediation) of PAH in soil is described as an effective alternative to other remediation technologies. There had been a large number of reports in the last decade where bacteria associated with plant-roots have been effectively utilized for removal of PAH. This strategy ensures the stability and competence of inoculated bacteria against competition from native microflora. However, success of this strategy requires a balance between the knowledge of physiology of symbiosis and mechanism of bioremediation and enzymes involved. Here we summarize the research strategies, suitable plant-microbe pairs, mechanisms, role of mix cultures, and importance of symbiosis for effective rhizoremediation of PAH compounds in soil. Also, an attempt has been made to elaborate the limitations as gaps are required to be identified and filled to establish this technology for effective measures.