Statistical Optimization of Rhodamine B Decolorization by Utilizing a Synergistic Bacterial Consortium

Abstract Water pollution remains a critical environmental challenge, primarily driven by industrialization. Many industries discharge toxic waste, including synthetic dyes from the textile sector, into water bodies without adequate treatment, even in small quantities, posing significant ecological risks. The persistence and carcinogenic nature of Rhodamine B dye further exacerbate the issue, necessitating effective remediation strategies. This study investigates the potential of Pseudomonas fluorescens , Bacillus subtilis , and their bacterial consortium in degrading Rhodamine B from industrial wastewater. The bacterial consortium achieved a decolorization efficiency of approximately 85%–87.2% using the one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach at optimal conditions (dye concentration 50 mg/L, temperature 32.5 °C, pH 7, inoculum size 10% v/v), which was further improved to 92.02% through optimization with response surface methodology, resulting in a nearly twofold increase in efficiency. The study also delved into analyzing the structural changes in the dye brought about by the microbial treatment, using techniques such as UV–vis spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, a phytotoxicity assay on agriculturally significant crops demonstrated the potential of the treated water for reuse in irrigation and industrial applications. These findings highlight the effectiveness of bacterial consortia in Rhodamine B bioremediation and suggest a sustainable approach to mitigating water pollution while promoting resource recovery.