Bioremediation of Hexavalent Chromium Using an Indigenous Bacillus cereus: Molecular and Process Optimization Approach

Hexavalent chromium (CrVI) is highly toxic and carcinogenic heavy metal commonly found in industrial effluents, posing sever environmental and public health risks. The study explore the bioremediation of Bacillus cereus strain isolated from a chromium contaminated site. The strain demonstrated significant (CrVI) reduction capabilities under laboratory conditions. Molecular identification using 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed the identity of the isolate as Bacillus cereus. To enhance the bioremediation efficiency parameter such as pH, temperature, Chromium concentration, inoculum size and contact time were optimized using Response Surface Methodology. The optimization conditions resulted in over 70.97%. reduction within 24-96hours.Our findings suggested Bacillus cereus is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly substitute for chromium treatment. It is also a significant implication for industrial uses and water treatment and may be a viable alternative to traditional remediation methods.