A Review of Phenol Degrading Fungi from Industrial Areas

Abstract

Phenol is a widespread environmental contaminant, commonly found in effluents from petroleum refineries, chemical manufacturing, pulp and paper industries, and textile plants. Its high toxicity, persistence, and water solubility make it a significant ecological and public health hazard. Traditional methods for phenol remediation are often energy-intensive, costly, and generate secondary pollutants. In recent years, fungi have emerged as promising biological agents for the degradation of phenol due to their ability to produce a wide array of oxidative enzymes and adapt to harsh environments. This review explores the sources and environmental implications of phenol pollution, the mechanisms by which fungi degrade phenol, and the diversity of fungal species capable of bioremediation. It further discusses the isolation of fungal strains from industrial areas, the application of bioreactor technologies, and recent advances in fungal genetics and metabolic engineering. Challenges and opportunities in this field are highlighted to guide future research toward sustainable and efficient phenol bioremediation strategies.