Microbial communities from aerobic groundwater biofilters

This study assessed the treatment performance and microbial communities within multiple pilot- and full-scale groundwater biotreatment systems in the United States that treated groundwaters containing ammonia, arsenic, iron, and/or manganese. Reactor configurations include up-flow aerated contactors and downflow filters. Media types include granular activated carbon, anthracite, gravel, ceramic, and sand. Most samples were collected from the top of the bed, which could be the influent or effluent end. Depth profile samples were collected on occasion.