Khalifa University Researchers Discover Pollution-Clearing Novel Bacterium In Abu Dhabi Mangroves

A team of researchers from the Center for Biotechnology and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) has discovered a novel bacterial strain ‘KU-BSD001’ from the mangroves of Abu Dhabi that degrade a range of emerging pollutants. This microbe shows strong suitability for integration into wastewater treatment systems, particularly in arid and coastal regions.

The study was published in the leading scientific journal Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering and includes Professor Syed Salman Ashraf, Chair, Biological Sciences, Professor Habiba Alsafar, Dean, CMHS, as well as Postdoctoral Fellow Khadije Ahmad Amin, Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, Dr. Gihan Daw Elbait, Senior Lecturer, and Dr. Ahmed Yousef, Associate Professor, Biological Sciences.

Whole-genome sequencing revealed KU-BSD001 is a novel species from the Lysinibacillus genus, with demonstrated ability to break down a wide range of pollutants including pharmaceuticals like venlafaxine and paracetamol, as well as industrial dyes.

Professor Habiba Alsafar said: “This discovery of novel bacterial strain KU-BSD001 from the mangroves of Abu Dhabi is a strong example of how local biodiversity can offer global solutions and remains a significant step forward for bioremediation in arid regions. By leveraging native microbial biodiversity to address pollution, our research aligns with priorities for environmental protection, sustainable industry, and ecosystem resilience. We are also proud to see such impact of collaborative research at Khalifa University, with this discovery reflecting our shared commitment to advancing environmental sustainability through science.”

As global concern over emerging pollutants grows, naturally occurring strains like the KU-BSD001 could support the development of low-energy, biologically based solutions for environmental remediation. Moreover, the significance of this discovery lies in its potential for practical, scalable application as the KU-BSD001 strain was able to degrade pollutants even under saline and high-temperature conditions, which typically limit the effectiveness of conventional treatment methods.

The research directly supports several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), as well as the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 objectives.