Development and challenges of emerging biological technologies for algal-bacterial symbiosis systems: A review

[Display omitted] •ABSS are eco-friendly and sustainable in wastewater treatment.•Principle of nutrient, antibiotic and heavy metal removal via ABSS discussed.•Review the reactor processes in the development of ABSS.•Interactions include nutrient exchange, signaling transmission, gene transfer.•Future research is needed to explore emerging technologies and promote symbiosis. The algal-bacterial symbiosis system (ABSS) is considered as a sustainable wastewater treatment process. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms of ABSS for the removal of common pollutant, heavy metals, and especially for emerging pollutants. For the macroscopical level, this review not only describes in detail the reactor types, influencing factors, and the development of the algal-bacterial process, but also innovatively proposes an emerging process that combines an ABSS with other processes, which enhances the efficiency of removing difficult-to-biodegrade pollutants. Further for the microscopic level, interactions between algae and bacteria, including nutrient exchange, signaling transmission and gene transfer, have been deeply discussed the symbiotic relationship with nutrient removal and biomass production. Finally, recommendations are given for the future development of the ABSS. This review comprehensively examines ABSS principles, development, algal-bacterial interactions, and application in wastewater treatment, aiming to deepen theoretical and practical understanding and advance ABSS technology.