Biochar-bacteria partnership based on microbially induced calcite precipitation improves Cd immobilization and soil function

Abstract Microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) technique utilizes ureolytic bacteria to decompose urea and generate carbonate ions for metal combination. MICP can remediate heavy (e.g., Cd) contaminated soils while maintaining or even improving soil functions, but its efficiency in agricultural practical application still needs be enhanced. Here, we constructed a biochar-bacteria (2B) partnership which biochar provides high nutrition diverse sorption sites. Using the 2B system, Cd immobilization effectiveness underlying mechanism were examined along with properties functions. Results showed that compared single systems, mobility was reduced by 23.6% 45.8% through co-precipitating CaCO 3 as otavite (CdCO ) whereas fertility, bacterial diversity, richness increased 11.7–90.2%, 5.4–16.1%, 6.8–54.7%, respectively. Moreover, abundances of Proteobacteria Firmicutes enhanced system. Notably, Sporosarcina Bacillus ( genus) carry ure C gene boosted further implicating microbiological reducing migration bioavailability soil. Overall, system efficient strengthening growth their nutrient supply bacteria-rich ecosystem.