Phytoremediation of Antibiotics from Wastes of Animal Feedlots: Mechanism of Remediation and Suggestions for Field Application

Extensive use of antibiotics and their subsequent discharge to the environment contributes to antibiotic pollution. Antibiotics when released in to the environment may induce antibiotic resistance among several bacterial species. The development of antibiotic resistance, which was recently reported, may pose severe health hazards to humans through transmittance of the 'resistance' gene from non- pathogenic to pathogenic microorganisms. This book summarizes a novel scientific study carried out to explore the potential of phytoremediation in controlling antibiotic pollution. The mechanism of phytoremediation suggested is biodegradation by root- secreted compounds. Some strategies are proposed for field applications. Additionally, the plant systems show potential for significant improvements in quality of wastewater via reduction of organic loads. The targeted readers for this study include environmental consultants, animal feedlot industry, academic scholars and finally the graduate students who wish to take this forward.