Utilisation of aliphatic compounds by acidophilic heterotrophic bacteria. The potential for bioremediation of acidic wastewaters contaminated with toxic organic compounds and heavy metals.

Acidophilic, heterotrophic bacteria isolated from acidic mine effluent metabolised a range of aliphatic compounds. Aliphatic acids, which are normally thought to be toxic to acidophiles, were utilised as substrates for energy and growth by these bacteria. This biodegradative ability, concomitant with their tolerance of heavy metals, has demonstrated the potential for using these organisms for the bioremediation of multiply contaminated acidic wastewaters.