Abstract:
DDT is a persistent pesticide that was banned in most countries due to its significant environmental and human
health hazards. Bioremediation has the potential for in-situ treatment of DDT contaminated sediment and soils.
With the right microorganisms and conditions, DDTand its primary metabolites, DDD and DDE can be degraded
into 4-chlorobenzoic acid or 4,4- dichlorobenzophenone under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, respectively.
The extent of degradation and time required will depend on the initial concentration, respiration mode and
microorganisms present. This review provides brief overview of bioremediation and discusses some of the key
degradation pathways of DDT.
