Characterization of a Native Microbial Consortium From Mining Tailings of the Arequipa-Peru Region and its Potential Application in Bioleaching

Objective: To characterize the native microbial consortium of the old mine tailings of Yarabamba (Arequipa) and evaluate their potential application in biolixiviation. Theoretical Framework: Metagenomics allows the identification of microorganisms in environments such as mine tailings. Bioleaching assays using seawater offer a more sustainable approach to copper recovery. Method: Samples were collected from mine tailings in Arequipa, Peru, and were crushed for bioleaching and metagenomics tests. Native and seawater-adapted microbial consortia were used, monitoring pH, ORP and cell count. Copper quantification was performed by atomic absorption, and molecular characterization was performed by metagenomics, analyzing the data with bioinformatics tools. Results and Discussion: Microbial consortia adapted to seawater achieved a copper recovery of 4.61%. Key species such as Pelomonas aquatica, Bradyrhizobium australafricanum and Burkholderia metallidurans were identified as associated with biolixiviation. These results highlight microbial diversity and treatment with seawater use. Research implications: The results have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of tailings. Molecular characterization of consortia contributes to the development of more efficient strategies in biotechnology and bioremediation. Originality/Value: This research establishes bases to understand the adaptation of microbial consortia present in this locality, highlighting the importance of long-term bioremediation strategies.