Abstract: With the help of biotechnology, the race is on to discover the magic bug that will revolutionize the mining industry. The aim of this abstract is to present an eco- friendly technique of extracting the metals, keeping in view the environmental and economical factors. The issue under lime light-BIOLEACHING is the outstanding solution for mining technology. Environmental standards continue to stiffen, particularly regarding toxic wastes, so costs for ensuring environmental protection will continue to rise. The products of biological processes are more amenable to containment and treatment than gaseous waste.

The most important player in the bioleaching process is Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. It is a chemoautotrophic acidophile, whose unique ability to oxidise metals, leading to leaching. A consortium of microorganisms namely Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans, Leptospirillum ferrooxidans and thermophilic bacteria are involved in bioleaching. In any event, biomining is now at the top of mining technology, and future development of the technology appears promising.

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