Extremozymes producing halophilic microbiota as an effective tool in bioremediation of synthetic dyes from the environment

Abstract Synthetic dyes represent a category of organic compounds that are highly stable, durable, and often resistant to degradation through natural processes. These dyes are produced and utilized globally across various industrial sectors, where they are applied to color different substrates by adhering to their surfaces. A significant concern arises from their release into watercourses and soils during manufacturing, processing, and dyeing activities. Compared to physical–chemical methods, the bioremediation of environments contaminated with synthetic dyes through biological approaches is generally more feasible, cost‐effective, and ultimately more efficient. Microorganisms employ three primary mechanisms to eliminate dyes from wastewater and soil: biosorption, bioaccumulation, and enzymatic biodegradation. Among microorganisms, halophilic bacteria and archaea are particularly attractive for bioremediation because of their ability to thrive under hypersaline conditions, metabolic versatility, and production of robust enzymes involved in dye degradation. Recent studies have identified haloarchaea as especially promising candidates for the treatment of saline industrial effluents due to their exceptional tolerance to salt stress, and other harsh environmental conditions. Because industrial wastewaters typically exhibit elevated salinity, non‐halophilic microorganisms may be less effective or entirely ineffective in remediation efforts. A promising alternative therefore lies in the application of halophilic microorganisms, which are naturally found in marine environments, salt lakes, or anthropogenic environments resulting from salt mining and processing. This review explores various aspects of synthetic dye remediation using halophilic microorganisms, detailing the mechanisms involved and providing insights into the production and potential application of recombinant extremozymes for addressing these environmental challenges. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).