Toxic heavy metals in composting reveal resilient, adaptable microbial superheroes.
Heavy metals in compost affect the types of microbes present. This study looked at how microbes respond to copper, zinc, and cadmium. Copper and zinc are more harmful to microbes than cadmium. Microbes can adapt to metal stress over time. Some microbes are resistant, some are sensitive, and some play a key role in composting. The study identified specific types of microbes that are resistant, sensitive, or important in dealing with heavy metals. This helps us understand how microbes change under metal stress and find ways to clean up heavy metal pollution.