Bioelectrochemical Enhancement of Antibiotics Removal from Mariculture Wastewater: A Critical Review

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Mariculture wastewater is characterized by high salinity (3–4%), high sulfate concentration (2–3 g/L), and fluctuating organic loads, thereby limiting the efficacy and operational stability of conventional physicochemical and biological treatment technologies. This review critically examines the potential of bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) in antibiotic removal from mariculture wastewater, seawater, and associated saline matrices, with particular emphasis on removal mechanisms, operational parameters, degradation pathways, and functional microbial taxa.

Recent Findings

Recent studies demonstrate that BESs can enhance antibiotic removal from saline wastewater through the synergistic action of anodic oxidation, cathodic reduction, and microbially mediated electrochemical transformation. System performance is strongly influenced by salinity and osmotic pressure, antibiotic concentration, applied voltage, and carbon source availability. High salinity may improve conductivity and electron transfer, but excessive osmotic stress can suppress microbial activity and destabilize biofilms. Emerging evidence further suggests that antibiotic transformation pathways are compound-specific, whereas salt-tolerant electroactive and sulfur-cycling microorganisms play important roles in pollutant removal under saline/marine conditions.

Summary

BESs integrate electroactive bacteria with electrodes via external circuits, representing a promising approach to concurrently enhance antibiotic removal and recover energy from mariculture wastewater. However, practical application is currently constrained by biofilm instability, dependence on external carbon sources, incomplete elucidation of intermediate toxicity, and ecological risks including antibiotic resistance gene dissemination. Future research should prioritize long-term operation, endogenous carbon utilization, and integrated risk assessment.