Comprehensive Review of <i>Arundo donax</i> and <i>Lemna gibba</i> for Phytoremediation Efficacy in Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Ali Meawad Ahmed, Sabreen L. Kareem
Abstract
Eutrophication remains a critical environmental challenge, contributing to severe water pollution and ecosystem degradation. Conventional wastewater treatment methods often present economic and ecological limitations, necessitating sustainable alternatives such as phytoremediation. This review examines the potential of Arundo donax and Lemna gibba in remediating wastewater, with a particular focus on their efficacy in removing organic pollutants, Total dissolved solids (TDS), and heavy metals. Literature findings highlight that these species exhibit strong phytoaccumulation capabilities, with Arundo donax effectively sequestering polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and Lemna gibba demonstrating high removal efficiencies for organic dyes. Additionally, their ability to accumulate heavy metals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As), underscores their viability for large-scale wastewater treatment applications. These plants’ adaptability and widespread distribution further support their use in environmentally friendly remediation strategies. Future research should optimize plant selection, treatment duration, and integration with complementary treatment technologies to enhance phytoremediation efficiency and long-term applicability.