Abstract
Aquatic environments are intensely contaminated by continuous emissions of anthropogenic
origin, including heavy metals, which deteriorate water quality in several regions of the
world. This pollution has severe consequences, affecting the food chain and posing a risk to
human health. My research focuses on the study of the responses of microorganisms as
specific bioindicators of heavy metals in these highly polluted environments.
Microorganisms could play a key role in the early detection of pollution, thus contributing to
the development of remediation strategies and environmental preservation. The objective is
to assess the reactivity of microorganisms to metals emitted mainly by local industries and
to explore their use as biosensors for monitoring surface and coastal waters, while
improving our understanding of the impacts on human health and aquatic ecosystem.