This paper analyzes a unique, aquatic phytobial biocenosis that has been forming naturally for over 20 years and operating as a filter for Cr(VI)-polluted groundwater. Our study presents a thorough taxonomic analysis of the biocenosis, including filamentous algae, vascular plants, and microbiome, together with the analysis of Cr accumulation levels, bioconcentration factors and other environmentally-significant parameters: siderophore production by bacteria, biomass growth of the plants or winter hardiness. Among 67 species identified in the investigated reservoir, 13 species were indicated as particularly useful in the bioremediation of Cr(VI)-polluted water and sediment. Moreover, three species of filamentous algae, Tribonema sp., and three easily culturable bacterial species were for the first time shown as resistant to Cr concentration up to 123 mg/dm³, i.e. 6150 times over the permissible level. The work presents a modern holistic phytobial consortium indispensable for the remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated aquatic environment in temperate zones worldwide.

This paper analyzes a unique, aquatic phytobial biocenosis that has been forming naturally for over 20 years and operating as a filter for Cr(VI)-polluted groundwater. Our study presents a thorough taxonomic analysis of the biocenosis, including filamentous algae, vascular plants, and microbiome, together with the analysis of Cr accumulation levels, bioconcentration factors and other environmentally-significant parameters: siderophore production by bacteria, biomass growth of the plants or winter hardiness. Among 67 species identified in the investigated reservoir, 13 species were indicated as particularly useful in the bioremediation of Cr(VI)-polluted water and sediment. Moreover, three species of filamentous algae, Tribonema sp., and three easily culturable bacterial species were for the first time shown as resistant to Cr concentration up to 123 mg/dm3, i.e. 6150 times over the permissible level. The work presents a modern holistic phytobial consortium indispensable for the remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated aquatic environment in temperate zones worldwide. | Biological mat, Cr(VI), Phytobial remediation, Pseudomonas peli, Tribonema | 100 | 1-14