Acidophilic sulphate-reducing bacteria: Diversity, ecophysiology, and applications

Abstract

Acidophilic sulphate-reducing bacteria (aSRB) are widespread anaerobic microorganisms that perform dissimilatory sulphate reduction and have key adaptations to tolerate acidic environments (pH <5.0), such as proton impermeability and Donnan potential. This diverse prokaryotic group is of interest from physiological, ecological, and applicational viewpoints. In this review, we summarize the interactions between aSRB and other microbial guilds, such as syntrophy, and their roles in the biogeochemical cycling of sulphur, iron, carbon, and other elements. We discuss the biotechnological applications of aSRB in treating acid mine drainage (AMD, pH <3), focusing on their ability to produce biogenic sulphide and precipitate metals, particularly in the context of utilizing microbial consortia instead of pure isolates. Metal sulphide nanoparticles recovered after AMD treatment have multiple potential technological uses, including in electronics and biomedicine, contributing to a cost-effective circular economy. The products of aSRB metabolisms, such as biominerals and isotopes, could also serve as biosignatures to understand ancient and extant microbial life in the universe. Overall, aSRB are active components of the sulphur and carbon cycles under acidic conditions, with potential natural and technological implications for the world around us.