Corbicula fluminea in wastewater bioremediation: Tackling contaminants of emerging concern and pathogens – A comprehensive review

Increasing water scarcity reveals the importance of treated municipal wastewater (MW) reuse as a critical component of the water supply. However, contamination by pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), bacteria, and human viruses raises concerns for human health and aquatic ecosystems. Conventional treatment is often insufficient for removing those contaminants, underscoring the need for cost-effective treatment technologies. The recent EU Directive 2024/3019 recommends quaternary treatments for PPCPs abatement in municipal effluents, though regulatory gaps remain for many pathogens. A promising alternative involves using invasive species as biofilters. The Asian clam ( Corbicula fluminea ) exhibits strong filtration and bioaccumulation capacities, interacting with contaminants through biological uptake, microbial mediation, and physicochemical adsorption. Its role as a biofilter and biological sentinel enables both pollutant removal and environmental monitoring. Key challenges include managing secondary waste streams to prevent both the re-entry of concentrated pollutants into the environment and the uncontrolled spread of the species. As an invasive species, the Corbicula fluminea offers a dual benefit in wastewater treatment by supporting pest management and a sustainable wastewater treatment approach.