Taxonomic relatedness and environmental pressure synergistically drive the primary succession of biofilm microbial communities in reclaimed wastewater distribution systems.

Compared to drinking water, the higher bacterial abundance, diversity, and organic matter concentration in reclaimed wastewater suggest that it is more likely to form biofilms. Nevertheless, little is known regarding many important aspects of the biofilm ecology in reclaimed wastewater distribution systems (RWDS), such as the long-term microbial community succession and the underlying driving factors. In the present study, by sampling and analysing microbial compositions of pipe wall biofilms from six frequently used pipe materials under NaClO (sodium hypochlorite-treated), NON (without disinfection), and UV (UV-treated) treatments over one year, it was found that the succession of microbial community structure followed a primary succession pattern.

The bacterial community significantly promotes cast iron corrosion in reclaimed wastewater distribution systems.

Background: Currently, the effect of the bacterial community on cast iron corrosion process does not reach consensus. Moreover, some studies have produced contrasting results, suggesting that bacteria can either accelerate or inhibit corrosion.

Results: The long-term effects of the bacterial community on cast iron corrosion in reclaimed wastewater distribution systems were investigated from both spatial (yellow layer vs.