Biodegradation of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) by a metal resistant strain, Bacillus cereus JP12.

Highlights: [•] A new strain of aerobic bacterium, Bacillus cereus JP12, could effectively degrade BDE-209. [•] The first report on the degradation of BDE-209 by Bacillus cereus. [•] A slight stimulating effect on BDE-209 removal under low levels of Cu2+ and Zn2+. [•] JP12 could effectively degrade BDE-209 under high concentrations of Cu2+ and Zn2+. [•] Metabolite identification and deduction of a possible BDE-209 degradation pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]