Overload of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in riparian infiltration zone increasing the pollution risk of naphthalene, insight from the competitive inhibition of naphthalene biodegradation by DOM.

Abstract

Riparian infiltration zones are crucial for maintaining water quality by reducing the aqueous concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through adsorption and biodegradation within the aquatic ecosystem. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) are ubiquitous in riparian infiltration zones where they extensively engage in the adsorption and biodegradation of PAHs, thereby influencing PAHs natural attenuation potential within riparian infiltration zones. Few studies have explored the natural attenuation mechanisms of PAHs influenced by DOM in riparian infiltration zones. In this study, the natural attenuation mechanisms of naphthalene (a typical PAHs component), under the influence of DOM, were explored, based on a case riverside source area. Analysis of microbial community structures, and the electron acceptor (e.g., Fe(III), DO/NO3-, SO42-)/electron donor (naphthalene and DOM) concentration changes within the riparian infiltration zone revealed a competitive inhibition relationship between DOM and naphthalene during microbial metabolism. Biodegradation experiments showed that when the concentration of DOM is higher than 4.0 mg·L-1, it inhibits the biodegradation of naphthalene. DOM competitively inhibits the biodegradation of naphthalene through the following mechanisms: (i) triggering microbial antioxidative defense mechanisms, diminishing the available resources for microbial participation in naphthalene degradation; (ii) altering microbial community structure; (iii) modulating microbial EPS composition, reducing the efficiency of microorganisms in utilizing carbon sources; and (iv) inhibiting the expression levels of downstream genes involved in naphthalene degradation. The competitive inhibition constants of DOM with concentrations of 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0, and 16.0 mg·L-1 on naphthalene biodegradation are -2.0 × 10-3, -5.0 × 10-3,1.0 × 10-3, 4.0 × 10-4, and 1.0 × 10-4, respectively. These findings enhance understanding of PAHs attenuation in riparian infiltration zone, providing a basis for assessing and managing PAHs pollution risks during riparian extraction.