Optimization of phenol biodegradation by a novel 2,3-dimethylphenol-degrading Pseudomonas isolate

Abnormally discharged phenols work as toxic pollutants to living environments. In this work, the operation conditions of a newly isolated 2,3-dimethylphenol-degrading Pseudomonas strain including temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH were investigated. Mixed phenols could be degraded efficiently in diluted mineral-salts medium, avoiding excessive ammonia and phosphate pollution. The results illustrated the potential of bacterial remediation of phenolic pollutants without eutrophication caused by the addition of bacterial growth nutrients.