The influence of vegetation and inhabitant soil microbiota on faecal pathogen inactivation in stormwater biofilters

Stormwater represents a valuable alternative water resource with scope for recycling and beneficial use. However, stormwater often contains disease-causing faecal pathogens which require prior removal. Stormwater biofilters are sustainable, soil-plant based passive infiltration systems which demonstrate promising pathogen treatment. Nevertheless, due to their passive nature, biofilters often display inconsistent treatment performance. This project investigated how plants and native microbes inhabiting these systems could be engineered for enhanced pathogen treatment. It was found that significant antimicrobial-producing plants and their microbial symbionts supported increased pathogen treatment within biofilters. Consequently, these features are recommended for future application within biofilters for improved treatment efficacy.