ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the determination of the diversity, occurrence and variation of the eukaryotic community in aerobic granular sludge (AGS) systems using 18S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. Protozoa, fungi and metazoans are part of the large microbial eukaryotic community playing a significant role in wastewater treatment systems. They contribute to improve physicochemical and microbiological effluent quality parameter by enhancing the sludge production and sedimentation; removing contaminants, and significantly contributing to the pathogenic microorganisms removal. Granular sludge samples were fractionated by sieving into small and large granules. Granular and activated sludge samples were subjected to microscopy observations, including optical to check on the occurrence and activity of the organism. A Beta-diversity analysis was carried out across raw wastewater and sludge groups to determine whether the community structure significantly differed between groups.
