Development of Phytoremediation Techniques Using the Interactive Potential of Plant and Microbial Activities for the Degradation of the Pesticides Hexachlorocyclohexane and Atrazine

Organophosphorous and organochlorine pesticides, which were banned or restricted in the US and in Europe years ago, are still applied in India to control pests affecting pulses and wheat. Their simple application, efficacy, and economic return may explain the popularity of these pesticides in Indian agriculture. Unfortunately, organophosphorous and organochlorine pesticides are in general very toxic even at low concentrations. As they are also mostly recalcitrant to biodegradation, residues are found in the environment, in drinking water, and in crop food. Since pesticide-contaminated soils and water pose a major environmental and human health problem, fast and efficient strategies for the decontamination of polluted sites as well as accurate monitoring of these hazardous substances are needed.