Lenzites elegans KSG32: A Novel White Rot Fungus for Synthetic Dye Decolourization

Synthetic dyes are complex aromatic compounds used in many industries like paper, printing, textile, food and cosmetics [1]. The major synthetic dyes include azo, triphenylmethane, anthraquinone and metal dyes. They are reported to be carcinogenic and thus their safe release into the environment poses a threat to public health. About 10-15% of the substrate unbound dyes from the industries are discharged into water bodies without any effective treatment [2]. The release of these effluents into water bodies affects all biological systems [3]. The removal or degradation of these dyes can be done by both physical and chemical methods. But the production of secondary pollutants like sludge and toxic compounds discourages the use of such costly methods [4]. These disadvantages can be overcome by adopting biological methods or green strategies. The most costeffective and eco-friendly approach is the removal of these dyes by various microorganisms and associated degrading enzymes [5].