Cleaning Water with Mushrooms: Fungal Bioremediation in Freshwater Environments

A systematic literature review was conducted to answer the following focus question: can fungal bioremediation (mycoremediation and mycofiltration) effectively reduce pathogenic fecal coliform bacteria (FCB) from freshwater environments? Mycoremediation uses fungal mycelium to eliminate soilborne environmental pollutants. Mycofiltration employs mycelium to trap and destroy harmful contaminants and pathogens within water. First, the review provides background on pollution sources, effects, and challenges. Then, it delves into fungi, their unique properties, and current applications. Drawing from peer-reviewed laboratory, mesocosm, and field studies, this thesis synthesizes findings on the antimicrobial and filtering capacities of fungal species in mycofiltration technologies. While the field remains emergent, results indicate promising reductions in E. coli concentrations, with efficacy influenced by substrate composition, mycelial contact time, and flow rate. The review highlights both supporting data and critical limitations. Few reviewed studies were in-situ, with most being limited to the Pacific Northwest, and many lacked large-scale, replicated, and statistically significant results. However, mycofiltration appears to be a viable, low-cost, and community-accessible alternative to conventional treatment strategies for urban stormwater and pollutive runoff. While having a potential for nonpoint source pollution management and environmental justice applications, further research is warranted to standardize methodologies, build evidence, and expand applicability across diverse ecological, regional, and socio-political contexts.