The Bioremediation of Nutrients and Heavy Metals in Watersheds: The Role of Floating Treatment Wetlands

Abstract

Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) are engineered systems that utilize floating platforms planted with aquatic vegetation to treat polluted water such as stormwater, agricultural runoff, and wastewater. FTWs have emerged as promising and environmentally sustainable solutions for water purification. This review synthesizes the current knowledge on FTW design, plant selection, and performance evaluation. It highlights key factors influencing nutrient and heavy metal removal, including the hydraulic retention time, mat thickness, and types of plant species. Recent findings on the roles of root architecture, microbial interactions, and seasonal variability in treatment efficiency are also discussed. Additionally, the review explores advanced analytical methods for monitoring water quality and assessing plant growth and contaminant uptake. Case studies from both laboratory- and field-scale experiments illustrate how variation in FTW configurations impacts pollutant removal efficiency. The review concludes by identifying critical research gaps, including the need for standardized monitoring protocols, strategies to enhance long-term performance, and the integration of FTWs with complementary treatment technologies to improve effectiveness across diverse aquatic environments.

1. Introduction

Water pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems and is responsible for causing algal blooms and affecting human health worldwide [1]. Conventional water treatment in watersheds involves a series of processes, including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection, pH adjustment, activated carbon treatment, and aeration, which are often costly. FTWs offer a sustainable alternative by harnessing the natural purification abilities of aquatic plants to remove excess nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates from water bodies [2]. These engineered systems typically consist of buoyant mats made using different materials that support vegetation, with roots extending into the water column to facilitate nutrient uptake and promote beneficial microbial processes. Unlike traditional treatment systems, FTWs require less surface area, making them particularly suitable for urban environments and areas with limited space. Various macrophytes, including Vetiveria zizani-oides, Juncus effusus, and Typha latifolia, enhance microbial colonization and activity while also contributing to the decomposition of organic matter. Efficient pollutant removal relies on maintaining contact between the plant roots and the polluted water. Furthermore, FTWs are adaptable to changing hydrological conditions and operate year-round in diverse climatic regions. In addition to nutrient removal, FTWs have demonstrated the ability to retain heavy metals, reduce pathogen loads, and increase dissolved oxygen (DO) levels [3]. They provide an integrated approach to water quality improvement through sediment interaction, biofilm activity, and phytoremediation. Given their adaptability and environmentally friendly nature, FTWs have attracted increasing interest over the past decade as a promising method for pollution mitigation [3,4].

Furthermore, FTWs are highly adaptable and suitable for a wide variety of aquatic environments. They play a vital role in improving water quality while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal and ecological health of degraded systems [5,6]. However, optimizing FTWs’ performance requires a thorough understanding of key factors such as climatic conditions, plant selection, and system design. This review highlights new analytical techniques for monitoring water quality and plant performance. Additionally, this review offers a comprehensive overview of the current research on FTWs, focusing on the critical elements that influence their effectiveness in water purification. We examine recent advances in system design and emphasize the importance of choosing plant species based on their characteristics. The study aims to synthesize insights from numerous studies, identify existing knowledge gaps, and outline future research directions to support the development of more effective FTWs for improved water quality management and the utilization of harvested plant biomass.

This review offers a comprehensive framework for using FTWs as nature-based solutions for watershed bioremediation, combining ecological principles with engineering design. It assesses the benefits of FTWs over other treatment systems, highlighting their flexibility, modularity, and low land use, especially in urban areas. The paper examines FTWs’ climate resilience, innovative design features, and the use of advanced analytical tools to monitor nutrient and heavy metal removal. It proposes standardized metrics to evaluate plant growth and overall system performance, focusing on choosing site-specific plant species and encouraging beneficial plant–microbe interactions. FTWs are shown to be effective in various water purification settings, including stormwater, industrial runoff, and greywater treatment. This work underscores the potential of FTWs to play a significant role in sustainable water management and ecosystem restoration.

1.1. Background and Rationale for FTWs

Impacts of Polluted Water and Need for Nature-Based Solutions

Water pollution from both natural and anthropogenic sources continues to degrade aquatic ecosystems globally. Erosion, agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, and urban stormwater (Figure 1) introduce a wide range of contaminants into water bodies. These pollutants include nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus), suspended solids (e.g., sediments), heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury, and cadmium), organic pollutants (e.g., oils, pesticides, and industrial chemicals), and biological contaminants (e.g., pathogens from sewage and animal waste) [7,8]. These substances not only threaten biodiversity but also pose serious risks to human health, particularly through the bioaccumulation of persistent pollutants such as heavy metals and pharmaceuticals [9,10,11,12,13].

Heavy metals like lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and chromium (Cr) often enter the aquatic system via mining, metal processing, and industrial discharges. Meanwhile, pharmaceuticals have emerged as a growing environmental concern due to their persistence, toxicity, and bioaccumulation potential. Drugs used in both human and veterinary medicine, along with their metabolites, commonly reach water bodies through wastewater discharge. Compounds such as antibiotics and hormones have been detected in surface water, groundwater, and even treated drinking water, where they may exert ecotoxicological effects [14,15,16]. A Swedish study found that only 8% of pharmaceuticals were biodegradable, while 23% showed a high potential for bioaccumulation [17]. Common pharmaceutical pollutants included antibiotics, analgesics, antidepressants, hormones, and anti-inflammatory drugs, many of which posed environmental risks even at trace concentrations. Moreover, nutrient enrichment, combined with climate-driven shifts in temperature and light availability, has intensified the frequency and severity of harmful algal blooms (HABs) (Figure 2) [18,19,20]. These blooms disrupt aquatic food webs, deplete DO, and impact the nutrient uptake efficiency of aquatic vegetation, including species used in FTWs.

Conventional treatment methods such as coagulation, filtration, and disinfection are widely used but present several limitations, including high operational costs, chemical consumption, and the generation of sludge. More advanced technologies, such as Micro-Air Flotation (MAF), Activated Carbon Adsorption (ACD), and Bio-Granulation with Chemical Precipitation (BGCP) (Figure 3,

Table 1. Comparative overview of conventional and nature-based water treatment methods.

Method	Target Pollutants	Strengths	Limitations	References
MAF	Suspended solids, oils, algae	High removal efficiency, compact design	Costly	[21,22]
ACD	Organic pollutants, pharmaceuticals	Simple, effective for trace organics	Limited for heavy metals, costly regeneration	[23,24]
BGCP	Nutrients, heavy metals	High efficiency, low sludge	Complex operation, chemical sludge	[25,26]
FTWs	Nutrients, metals, pathogens	Sustainable, habitat creation, low cost	Seasonal variability, plant maintenance	[27,28]

), offer more targeted pollutant removal.

However, these methods may face challenges related to scalability and long-term sustainability, especially in decentralized or rural settings. In this context, there is a growing need for integrated solutions that not only remove nutrients and heavy metals but also enhance habitat diversity and improve aesthetic value. Detailed descriptions of the MAF, ACD, and BGCP mechanisms are provided in the Appendix A.1.1, Appendix A.1.2 and Appendix A.1.3.

1.2. Constructed Wetland (CW) Treatment

CWs are engineered systems that replicate natural wetland functions to treat watershed wastewater [29,30]. Using vegetation, soil, and microbial communities, they remove contaminants such as nutrients, solids, pathogens, and some heavy metals through processes like filtration, sedimentation, plant uptake, and microbial degradation. Commonly used for agricultural runoff, stormwater, and domestic wastewater, they offer benefits like low operating costs, energy efficiency, biodiversity support, and resilience to fluctuating flows. However, they require significant land area, have longer retention times, may attract mosquitoes, and can be less effective in cold climates or under high hydraulic loads. Regular maintenance is also needed to manage vegetation and prevent clogging.

2. About Floating Treatment Wetlands (FTWs)

FTWs are innovative water treatment systems that combine natural biological processes with engineered structures to remediate polluted water bodies such as lakes, ponds, and rivers [31,32]. These systems consist of buoyant platforms often made from recycled plastic or foam that support wetland plants with roots suspended freely in the water column (Figure 4). However, the use of plastic-based materials in FTW platforms raises concerns about potential fragmentation and microplastic release into aquatic environments. To mitigate this, materials such as UV-stabilized polymers and reinforced composites should be prioritized, and regular structural assessments are recommended to prevent degradation and ensure long-term environmental safety. The extensive root systems provide large surface areas for microbial communities that facilitate nitrification, denitrification, and the breakdown of organic pollutants. Additionally, plants absorb nutrients and heavy metals through phytoremediation, helping to reduce eutrophication and algal blooms [33]. Beyond pollutant removal, FTWs trap suspended solids to improve water clarity, create microhabitats that enhance aquatic biodiversity, and provide shading that moderates water temperature and suppresses algal growth. FTWs are cost-effective, space-efficient, and adaptable to various climates and water bodies and contribute to both ecological restoration and aesthetic enhancement of urban and rural environments.

The effectiveness of FTWs largely depends on the selection of plant species. While some species propagate exclusively through seeds, others can reproduce via both seeds and root transplants. Among them, perennial grasses that are well-acclimated to local environmental conditions have proven particularly effective in water remediation. Since their development in the 1980s, FTWs have employed a range of plant species categorized mainly as (i) free-floating and (ii) emergent plants [34]. Research indicates that higher species richness and diversity in growth forms—such as combinations of elongated, broad-leaved, and larger plants—can significantly boost the removal of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP). Mixed planting strategies enhance system resilience and performance while improving the visual and ecological quality of urban wetlands. This integrated approach supports sustainable water purification and ecosystem restoration. Ongoing studies continue to deepen our understanding of plant–pollutant interactions, advancing the efficiency and effectiveness of FTWs.

2.1. Free-Floating Macrophyte Wetlands

Free-floating macrophyte wetlands use aquatic plants that float on the surface without anchoring to the sediment. Common species include water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), Frogbit (Hydrocharis dubia), and duckweed (Lemna minor) [35,36,37]. Their floating nature allows them to adapt to varying water depths, making these wetlands effective for treating stormwater, polluted natural water, and various wastewater. However, their free-floating nature poses challenges like being hard to contain, easily dispersed by water and wind, and potentially invasive. These issues make free-floating macrophyte wetlands less commonly used to treat natural or stormwater bodies.

2.2. Floating Emergent Macrophyte Wetlands

Floating emergent macrophyte wetlands feature emergent plants rooted in mats or buoyant artificial beds that float on the water surface [38]. Common species include reed (Phragmites australis), cattail (Typha sp.), and canna (Canna sp.). Air pockets within these plants help them float and enhance oxygen supply to submerged biomass, accelerating aerobic degradation. Plant selection should consider local regulations and climate, as some species may be invasive or unsuitable in certain regions, while tropical climates may require different plants (Figure 5). The floating beds and dense root mats stabilize plant placement, reduce displacement by wind or currents, and promote sedimentation by minimizing turbulence. Additionally, shading from the beds helps control algal growth, though excessive coverage can lower DO levels. These wetlands work well for varying flow conditions, but their efficiency may decrease as water depth increases because more flow bypasses the root–biofilm zone.

2.3. Submerged Macrophyte Wetlands

Submerged macrophyte wetlands are characterized by aquatic plants that grow entirely beneath the water surface, with their roots anchored in the substrate [43]. Common species include eelgrass (Zostera marina), pondweed (Potamogeton sp.), and contrail (Cera-tophyllum demersum). These systems support underwater vegetation that enhances DO levels through photosynthesis, thereby promoting aerobic microbial activity critical for the degradation of organic pollutants. By stabilizing sediments and reducing turbidity, submerged macrophytes significantly improve water clarity. Moreover, they create valuable habitats and food sources for aquatic fauna, contributing to increased biodiversity.

Functionally, submerged macrophyte wetlands contribute to the removal of excess nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic contaminants, playing a vital role in nutrient cycling and water purification [43]. These plants also facilitate oxygen diffusion into the sediment layer, enhancing microbial activity and accelerating pollutant breakdown, which supports overall ecosystem balance and resilience. To maintain the long-term efficacy of FTWs and prevent decaying plant matter from becoming a secondary source of pollution, the timely harvesting of vegetation is essential. Harvesting should be conducted before the onset of senescence to ensure that assimilated nutrients are permanently removed from the system rather than released back into the water column upon plant decay. Systematic monitoring of plant growth and harvesting schedules is therefore critical. This includes recording biomass accumulation, nutrient content, and seasonal growth trends to identify optimal harvesting windows. Such data not only informs effective management practices but also improves the operational efficiency and sustainability of FTWs over time. Integrating harvest planning into the design and management of FTWs can significantly enhance pollutant removal rates while reducing maintenance burdens and ecological risks [44,45].

Additionally, careful plant species selection is critical to balancing remediation efficiency with environmental safety. While fast-growing, non-native species may demonstrate high nutrient uptake capabilities, they also pose a significant risk of becoming invasive if released into surrounding ecosystems. To mitigate such risks, the use of native or non-invasive species should be prioritized. This should be supported by proper containment strategies and routine ecological monitoring. Utilizing a diverse mix of locally adapted native species can further boost pollutant removal performance while minimizing the likelihood of biological invasions, thereby enhancing both system functionality and environmental protection [46].

2.4. Comparative Analysis: FTWs vs. Other Nature-Based Solutions (NBSs)

NBSs for improving water quality include systems such as CWs, vegetated swales, riparian buffers, and FTWs [47,48]. These systems harness natural processes, including plant uptake, microbial activity, and sedimentation, to remove pollutants from water bodies. Among them, FTWs offer distinct advantages and limitations. They are especially well-suited for urban or space-limited environments where land constraints hinder the use of traditional CWs. Their modular design enables flexible installation in stormwater ponds, reservoirs, and canals without major alterations to existing hydrology, making them ideal for retrofitting and enhancing current infrastructure. However, FTWs may be less effective in high-flow systems where short hydraulic retention times reduce treatment efficiency (

Table 2. Comparative perspective highlighting FTWs as one of the most convenient NBSs.

Feature	FTWs	CWs [49]	Riparian Buffers [50,51]
Installation	Modular, retrofittable on existing water bodies	Requires land excavation and grading	Requires adjacent land
Land Use	Minimal footprint; floats on water	High land requirement	Moderate to high
Pollutant Removal	Effective for nutrients, metals, and suspended solids	Broad-spectrum removal	Primarily sediment and nutrient trapping
Hydraulic Control	Limited; depends on water body dynamics	High; engineered flow paths	Low
Maintenance	Moderate (plant harvesting, mat upkeep)	Moderate to high	Low
Climate Adaptability	Performs well in temperate and tropical zones	Sensitive to freezing	Seasonal variability
Cost	Moderate initial cost; scalable	High capital cost	Low

). In such contexts, hybrid or complementary NBS approaches may be required to meet water quality goals. Despite these limitations, FTWs represent a valuable component of the NBS toolkit, particularly for decentralized applications and infrastructure upgrades. A clear understanding of their strengths and constraints is essential for designing integrated, site-specific strategies that support sustainable and resilient water management.

2.5. Advantages and Limitations of FTW Systems

FTWs offer an efficient, space-saving solution for improving water quality, as they can be installed directly on existing water bodies without the need for additional land. They effectively remove nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as heavy metals, through a combination of plant uptake, microbial activity, and sedimentation. Their modular design enables flexible scaling to fit various site conditions while also enhancing biodiversity and providing aesthetic benefits that can help build public support. Despite these advantages, FTWs also present several limitations. Their performance is influenced by factors such as plant species selection, seasonal variability, and pollutant loading rates. Regular maintenance—including timely plant harvesting and routine structural inspections—is critical to ensuring long-term functionality. In high-flow environments, reduced hydraulic retention time can significantly impair treatment effectiveness. Furthermore, most existing studies emphasize short-term performance, leaving uncertainties about long-term durability and efficacy. Compared to passive systems such as riparian buffers, FTWs may also involve higher installation and maintenance costs. Nevertheless, FTWs remain a valuable and adaptable component of integrated water management strategies, particularly when implemented alongside other nature-based solutions to enhance overall system resilience and performance.

2.6. Climatic Adaptability and Resilience of FTWs

While FTWs have shown adaptability across a range of climate zones, their long-term stability and performance under extreme climatic conditions remain insufficiently addressed in the current literature. These systems have been deployed in both temperate and tropical regions; however, extreme weather events—such as prolonged droughts, intense rainfall, freezing temperatures, and heatwaves—can significantly impact their structural integrity, vegetation health, and treatment efficacy [52]. In cold climates, freezing temperatures may damage plant tissues, suppress microbial activity, and cause ice heaves, potentially dislodging floating mats or compromising anchoring mechanisms. In hot or arid environments, elevated evapotranspiration and water loss can lead to plant desiccation, reducing biomass productivity and nutrient uptake. Additionally, warm temperatures often encourage algal blooms, which compete with plant roots for nutrients and may impair system performance. In coastal or flood-prone areas, storm surges and high winds increase the risks of structural displacement or damage to the floating platforms.

2.7. FTW Treatment on Different Sources of Wastewater

2.7.1. Stormwater Runoff

One major advantage of floating wetland treatment over traditional methods is its adaptability to changing flow conditions and fluctuating water depths, making it well-suited for treating stormwater runoff [53]. Stormwater runoff carries pollutants such as lawn and garden fertilizers, pet waste, sediment, and heavy metals like chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, cadmium, and lead, which accumulate on paved surfaces from vehicle emissions. A study [54] of FTWs treating runoff from a 7.46 ha urban residential area demonstrated significant reductions in the Total Suspended Solids (TSSs) and TP despite the system’s small footprint, though pollutant removal, especially TN, varied between rainfall events due to low and fluctuating influent concentrations.

2.7.2. Industrial Runoff

Runoff from industrial activities often contains heavy metals, toxic chemicals, oils, and textile pollutants, making FTWs a suitable treatment option [55]. Over 50% of industrial effluents treated by FTWs are textile and oily wastewaters, which are typically high in organics and suspended solids. The effectiveness of FTWs depends on plant choice. For example, vetiver grass has been shown to increase pH and remove heavy metals from acid mine drainage, while water hyacinth is also effective in heavy metal removal. FTWs have been used in effluents from the paper, batik, and food industries, showing their versatility. They effectively remove pollutants from textile wastewater, which contains dyes, pigments, and heavy metals. Specific bacterial strains can enhance dye degradation, reducing color and toxicity. FTWs are used to treat oily wastewater. Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) in FTWs reduced the oil content, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biological oxygen demand (BOD) [56].

2.7.3. Greywater

Greywater generated from household activities like bathing, handwashing, laundry, and dishwashing differs from blackwater in that it contains significantly less contamination from human waste [57]. It accounts for about 65% of the total domestic wastewater, with half classified as polluted due to the presence of organic matter, detergents, and microbes. Greywater, with its lower contamination levels, has significant reuse potential. FTWs can remove over 50% of COD and BOD from domestic wastewater and effectively eliminate TN, NH₄⁺-N, TP, and TSSs. However, nutrient removal efficiency can vary depending on plant species, wastewater composition, and environmental conditions. FTWs are suitable for treating a wide range of greywater and similar wastewaters, offering a sustainable, nature-based solution for water recycling through plant–microbe interactions.

3. Experimental Workflow and Design of FTWs

3.1. Indoor and Outdoor Experiments

FTWs can be tested indoors and outdoors to assess environmental impacts on plant growth and nutrient remediation. Variables like temperature, light, nutrient availability, and seasonal changes affect FTWs’ performance. Indoor mesocosms provide precise control over these factors, aiding in optimizing FTWs’ design for eutrophic waters. In one indoor study [58], four treatments were conducted using polycarbonate microcosms (14.3 cm × 30.5 cm) simulating wetland conditions:

1.

Vegetation Presence: This included floating vegetation (FV) vs. without floating vegetation (NFV) (n = 3 each).

2.

Gas and Light Control: This included FV microcosms with inhibited gas exchange, foil covers (light reduction), and plastic traps (gas restriction).

3.

Nitrogen Loading: This included TDN increased from 1.4 to 4.1 mg N L⁻¹ in FV + N and NFV + N (n = 3 each), with control groups included.

4.

Temperature Elevation: This included FV and NFV with/without a 5 °C increase (n = 3 each).

The results showed that the FV microcosms had significantly higher denitrification rates (302 ± 45 vs. 63 ± 13 µmol N m⁻² h⁻¹) and nitrogen retention (203 ± 19 µmol N m⁻² h⁻¹; 72 ± 4%) than NFV (170 µmol N m⁻² h⁻¹; 62 ± 4%). This was attributed to enhanced DO dynamics associated with plant presence. Nitrogen retention was calculated using Equation (1):

$$\%\mathrm{TDNret} = {\displaystyle \frac{(\mathrm{TDNin} - \mathrm{TDNout})}{\left(\mathrm{TDNin}\right)}}\times 100$$

(1)

where TDN_in and TDN_out are defined as the concentrations of TDN for inflow and outflow water. As for measurements of greenhouse gas production rates, no significant differences were found.

Higher temperatures reduced denitrification in the NFV microcosms and decreased N₂O emissions in the FV systems. Plant mats inhibited photosynthesis in the FV microcosms, lowering DO levels and boosting denitrification. FV exposed to light exhibited reduced denitrification due to increased DO from photosynthesis. Nitrate removal showed no significant difference between light and dark FV microcosms, likely because dense plant mats naturally limit light penetration. Floating vegetation boosts nitrogen removal and maintains stable GHG emissions, showing the potential of CWs to improve water quality without increasing GHG outputs. Outdoor mesocosm experiments further support this, allowing precise control of variables like the influent nutrient concentration, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and hydraulic loading rate (HLR). Nutrient removal was assessed using Equation (2):

$$\mathrm{Removal} \mathrm{efficiency} = {\displaystyle \frac{(\mathrm{Ni} - \mathrm{Nf}) }{\mathrm{Ni} }} \times 100$$

(2)

This formula calculates weekly nutrient removal, with N_i as the initial load and N_f as the load after the retention time. It also computes cumulative removal efficiency using the sum of all N_i and N_f values from the experiment weeks.

Outdoor mesocosm setups often utilize standard aquatic equipment such as water pumps, supply lines, hoses, drainage systems, and polyvinyl chloride piping to maintain functionality. In a related study, ref. [59] conducted a two-factor experiment using Myriophyllum aquaticum, testing three nutrient concentrations and three light intensity treatments (no shading, 30% shading, 60% shading). Their findings showed that higher light intensity and nutrient levels significantly boosted plant growth. The relative growth rate was calculated using Equation (3):

$$\mathrm{RGR}(\mathrm{mg} \times {\mathrm{g}}^{-1} \times {\mathrm{d}}^{-1})=1000\times \mathrm{l}\mathrm{n}{\displaystyle \frac{(\frac{\mathrm{W}2}{\mathrm{W}1})}{(\mathrm{D}2 - \mathrm{D}1)}}$$

(3)

Here, W1 (g) and W2 (g) are the total weight per bucket on different days (i.e., D1 and D2). FTWs are studied under both controlled (indoor) and natural (outdoor) conditions to understand the efficacy of nutrient remediation of floating aquatic plants in different environments. Indoor experiments, with precise control over variables like nutrient levels, light intensity, and water quality, help researchers understand denitrification and nitrogen retention in FTWs. On the other hand, outdoor experiments simulate real-world conditions with natural fluctuations in light, temperature, and nutrients. Combining insights from both can lead to hybrid experimental designs that optimize FTWs’ performance for different environments, improving their effectiveness and sustainability across ecosystems.

3.2. Floating Mat Types

The efficiency of FTWs in treating waters is determined by the design of floating mats, which support aquatic plants in removing nutrients and pollutants through their roots [60]. BioHaven mats, made from lightweight polyurethane foam, removed 25% of TN and 4% of TP over 18 weeks. Beemats, made of durable polyethylene foam, achieved higher removal rates: 40% TN and 48% TP [61]. Floating mats are made from materials like polyurethane and polyethylene foams, coconut coir fibers, recycled plastics, polyvinyl chloride or high-density polyethylene meshes, and geotextile fabrics (Figure 6). These materials affect buoyancy, durability, root penetration, nutrient absorption, and plant health, making their selection crucial for successful FTWs. Species like Carex and Typha excel at nitrogen removal, especially in cold climates [62]. Mixed-species plantings improve nutrient uptake compared to monocultures, suggesting that diverse plants enhance FTWs’ performance. Optimizing mat coverage and operational parameters further boosts nitrogen removal, while mats promote floating vegetation coverage and enhance denitrification and nutrient retention.

Aeration increases DO and plant nitrogen uptake by up to 55%, but it paradoxically reduces N and P removal from water due to changes in microbial processes like denitrification. The plant effectiveness depends on interactions among plants, microbes, and water chemistry. It is crucial to select appropriate mat materials, plant species, coverage, and aeration strategies to optimize nutrient removal and plant growth in FTWs.

As climate change accelerates, future research on FTWs must prioritize enhancing their resilience to increasingly extreme and unpredictable environmental conditions. Elevated temperatures, freezing winters, prolonged droughts, and intensified storm events can all compromise the structural integrity and treatment performance of these systems. Addressing these challenges requires a multipronged approach. First, selecting plant species with high tolerance to both heat and cold is critical to maintaining consistent, year-round nutrient removal. Second, FTW structural designs should evolve to incorporate modular, flexible platforms engineered to withstand wind, wave action, and fluctuating water levels. The use of durable floating materials and adaptive anchoring system will be essential for ensuring long-term operational stability. Furthermore, integrating predictive climate models with real-time monitoring technologies can support proactive management and timely structural adjustments. Advancing these strategies will help establish FTWs as climate-resilient components of sustainable water treatment systems in both ecological and urban environments.

3.3. Mat Thickness

Current research shows that mats about 1 cm thick effectively support the weight of floating aquatic plants in treatment wetlands and play a key role in nitrogen and phosphorus removal from simulated stormwater runoff [67]. One study reported removal efficiencies of approximately 84% for TN and 75% for TP during spring to fall 2008, demonstrating the importance of optimal mat thickness. However, further investigation is needed to better understand how mat thickness directly affects nutrient removal and which mat properties are most critical for designing effective FTWs in varying environments. Given the need for scalable FTWs in large water bodies, mat thickness is a crucial factor influencing nutrient uptake.

3.4. Soil vs. Without Soil

The utilization of different soil types and overall nutrient availability within FTWs significantly influence nutrient uptake and overall wetland performance. A study by [68] evaluated the use of spent coffee grounds as a soil amendment in FTWs. Their mesocosm-scale study demonstrated that soil cups amended with spent coffee grounds significantly improved nitrate (NO₃-N) removal efficiency. The study reported NO₃-N removal rates as high as 90% compared to control setups without amendments. They calculated NO₃-N removal rates by first calculating the NO₃-N first-order removal rates. This first-order removal rate is given in Equation (4).

$${ \mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{t}}={\mathrm{C}}_0{\mathrm{e}}^{-\mathrm{kt}}$$

(4)

where C_t is the final NO₃-N concentration (mg L⁻¹), C_o is the initial NO₃-N concentration (mg L⁻¹), t is time (d), and k is the removal rate (d⁻¹). The nitrate removal percentage is represented by Equation (5).

$$\mathrm{Removal} (\%) = {\displaystyle \frac{{\mathrm{C}}_0 - {\mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{t}}}{{\mathrm{C}}_0}} \times 100$$

(5)

Increased carbon from coffee grounds enhances microbial activity and denitrification, aiding nitrate removal. One study [69] found that nutrient-rich water reduces metal uptake efficiency. The zinc and copper removal rates were 28.4–57.3% and 1.0–19.7% in nutrient-rich water but increased to 44.9% and 81% in nutrient-deficient water. Using appropriate soils and amendments, like organic-rich soils or spent coffee grounds, can significantly enhance the removal of nitrogen, phosphorus, and metals, improving FTWs’ effectiveness.

3.5. Optimal Harvest Time and HRT

In a recently concluded study, detailed insights into the optimal harvest time for maximizing nutrient removal efficiency in FTWs using Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) and Soft Rush (Juncus effusus) have been reported [70]. For P. cordata, the highest N and P accumulation in roots occurred in August (307 g N and 30.5 g P), while the shoots reached peak nutrient levels in September (1490 g N and 219.5 g P). This indicates that the optimal harvest period for P. cordata spans from late summer to early fall, August for roots and September for shoots. In the case of J. effusus, maximum nutrient accumulation was observed in both roots (50 g N and 4.8 g P) and shoots (98 g N and 12.5 g P) during September. Thus, September is the ideal harvest time for J. effusus. Harvesting these species before senescence, typically in mid-to-late September, maximizes nutrient uptake and storage. This strategic timing is particularly important in the United States Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zone 8a in the Southeastern United States, where timely harvesting can enhance FTWs’ performance and improve water quality management.

The HRT significantly influences nutrient removal and plant performance in FTWs. A pilot-scale wetland study with Eichhornia crassipes showed 82–95% TP removal efficiencies over 3, 7, and 10 days, with no significant differences [71]. However, after accounting for sedimentation, the 3-day HRT system had the highest TP accumulation in plant biomass. TP removal was higher during the wet season due to increased macrophyte growth from greater solar radiation. Minakshi et al. [72] studied vertical subsurface flow CWs and observed 81.2% for TSSs, 90.2% for BOD₅, 65.1% for TP, and 82.5% for NH₄-N at 12 h. A study [73] comparing sand and gravel filter media in vertical subsurface CWs for dairy wastewater found that a longer HRT (12–48 h) improved removal. At 48 h, finer gravel achieved the highest removal rates for BOD (63.1%), COD (67.4%), and PO₄-P (57.8%). These findings underscore the importance of optimizing the HRT and system design to enhance nutrient removal efficiency in FTWs and other constructed wetland systems.

3.6. Metrics for Assessing Plant Growth

Evaluating plant growth is crucial for assessing FTWs’ efficiency. A study found that longhair sedge (Carex comosa) outperformed common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris) in biomass production and root system development, resulting in better nutrient uptake and storage [74]. A study [75] tested monoculture and mixed-species FTWs with five macrophytes for nitrogen and phosphorus removal. Both strategies were effective, but Panicum virgatum had better nitrogen uptake in mixed plantings, indicating synergy, while Iris ensata performed better alone, suggesting antagonism in mixtures. Biomass production and nutrient accumulation in plant tissues were key indicators of performance. Over 11 weeks, southern cattail (Typha domingensis) showed superior root development and nutrient removal in a constructed FTW, with TN and TP reductions of 4–31% and 8–15%, respectively, compared to lower rates in giant bulrush (Schoenoplectus californicus) [76]. A 16-month study [77] on tall sedge (Carex appressa) in urban stormwater FTWs found notable root growth and nutrient uptake. The TN uptake was 20.2 ± 2.88 kg and 15.0 ± 2.07 kg in two systems, but phosphorus removal was limited by low water concentrations. Nutrient partitioning showed metals like aluminum and iron mostly accumulating in roots. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of metrics such as biomass, root development, and nutrient storage in evaluating FTWs’ performance. Consistent increases in these parameters demonstrate the potential of FTWs to improve water quality through effective plant-mediated nutrient removal.

3.7. Impact of Different Mesocosm Designs

Effective mechanical design is vital for the success of floating aquatic plant systems. Important factors are buoyancy, durability, stability, structural integrity, scalability, and modularity (Figure 7).

3.7.1. Buoyancy

Buoyancy is foundational for floating mats to support both plant biomass and any associated equipment. Commonly used buoyant materials include recycled plastics, foam, and synthetic fibers. Proper weight distribution is essential to avoid tilting or sinking, requiring accurate calculations of total system load and buoyant capacity.

3.7.2. Durability

Durability is equally important. Materials must resist degradation from prolonged exposure to water, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. UV-stabilized plastics are preferred for their resilience [78], helping reduce maintenance by minimizing wear and tear over time.

3.7.3. Stability

External forces such as wind, waves, and fluctuating water levels require robust anchoring systems. These may include weighted anchors, flexible tethers, or mooring lines that accommodate water level changes [79]. Additional design features like aerodynamic shapes, added ballast, and flexible-yet-resilient structures improve system performance during storms or high winds. For example, researchers developed floating islands anchored with four cinder blocks connected by metal chains [80]. Each island included 5.75 cm diameter pre-drilled holes spaced 20 cm apart for planting 2.5 cm plugs (~225 plants per island). Protective fencing was implemented to prevent herbivory by Canada geese. Another study used a semi-rigid hose attached to a post 4.9 m from the shoreline and compared BioHaven and Beemats floating islands. A Port Marina project used Cork Floating Islands by Blue Master, anchored with cables, weights, and plastic clamps for tidal fluctuations. Similarly, a Lampedusa Island study showed offshore photovoltaic platforms’ economic and structural viability, highlighting design parallels between floating wetlands and solar installations [81].

3.7.4. Structural Integrity

Mats must support not only plant biomass but also maintenance personnel and equipment, requiring precise load-bearing calculations. The structure must strike a balance between flexibility (to absorb wave energy) and rigidity (to prevent sagging).

3.7.5. Design Geometry and Hydraulic Configurations

Computational fluid dynamics modeling can optimize floating pad positioning and pond inlet–outlet design. Simulations with the analysis system Fluent, validated by experiments, identified the best configuration—a circular FTW placed near the inlet with a center inlet and side outlet—which achieved 94.8% pollutant removal [82]. In contrast, far-side inlet–side outlet designs performed poorly due to flow short-circuiting. FTWs near inlets removed more pollutants (61.8%) compared to central (42.7%) or outlet positions (54.1%). Another study investigated the optimal spacing of FTWs in a channel system. Maximum mass removal occurred when FTWs were spaced at one to three times the root zone length, balancing root zone flow and FTW quantity [83].

3.7.6. Scalability and Modularity

Modular designs enable easy addition or removal of units without requiring major changes to the existing infrastructure. Interconnectable modules facilitate maintenance and adaptability. By incorporating these design principles, buoyancy, durability, stability, structural integrity, and modularity, FTWs can be optimized for enhanced performance, longevity, and resilience. They represent a valuable solution for environmental management and sustainable agriculture.

3.8. Plant Selection Criteria for FTWs

FTW nutrient and heavy metal removal depends on plant species, since each varies in pollutant uptake, contaminant tolerance, and adaptation to hydroponics [84]. Ideal candidates should exhibit strong bioaccumulation potential for metals such as Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn. For example, Carex pseudocyperus and Carex riparia have demonstrated removal rates of up to 98–100% for these metals within just five days in hydroponic systems. Plants with extensive root systems and high biomass provide a larger surface area for microbial colonization and metal adsorption, thereby enhancing overall removal even if their root uptake efficiency is moderate. To ensure long-term functionality, species must also tolerate elevated contaminant concentrations without experiencing significant physiological stress, minimizing the need for frequent replacement. Since FTW plants are required to grow in waterlogged, low-soil environments, emergent macrophytes such as Juncus effusus, Phragmites australis, and Typha latifolia are frequently selected for use [85]. Native, non-invasive species are preferred to promote local biodiversity and align with ecological and regulatory standards. In urban or public installations, aesthetic considerations and plant structure, such as canopy height and form, may also influence species selection.

3.9. Microbial Interactions in FTWs

Microbial communities play a crucial role in the bioremediation functions of FTWs. Microorganisms that colonize the rhizosphere and form biofilms on plant roots and floating substrates drive essential processes such as pollutant transformation, degradation, and immobilization. For instance, nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria convert ammonia to nitrate and subsequently reduce nitrate to nitrogen gas, thereby lowering nitrogen concentrations in aquatic systems. Similarly, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria enhance phosphorus bioavailability, facilitating greater uptake by plants. Certain microbial species also influence the redox state of heavy metals, transforming them into less toxic or less bioavailable forms. Sulfate-reducing bacteria, for instance, can precipitate toxic metals like cadmium and lead as insoluble metal sulfides. The physical structure of FTWs, including dense root networks and porous floating media, provides extensive surface area for microbial colonization, promoting the development of active biofilms. These biofilms function as microreactors, enhancing interactions between pollutants and microbial communities. Moreover, plants release exudates such as sugars, amino acids, and phenolic compounds that stimulate microbial activity. In return, microbes support plant nutrient uptake and bolster plant resilience under environmental stress. This mutualistic relationship enhances both the ecological stability and pollutant removal efficiency of FTWs. Research has shown that microbial diversity and abundance are strong predictors of FTW performance. Consequently, strategies such as targeted microbial inoculation, bioaugmentation, and substrate modification are being explored to further optimize treatment efficiency and long-term system stability [86,87].

4. Water Quality Indicators in Evaluating FTWs’ Performance

FTWs are evaluated primarily by their ability to enhance water quality by reducing pollutants. The key indicators commonly measured in FTW studies include physicochemical parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, turbidity, oxidation–reduction potential, biological oxygen demand, and chemical oxygen demand), nutrient concentrations (nitrogen and phosphorus species), microbial activity (colony-forming units and meta-genomic profiling), and levels of heavy metals (

Table 3. Summary of key water quality indicators in FTW studies.

Parameter	Relevance to FTWs	Typical Trend	Reference
DO	Indicates oxygenation and microbial activity	Increases post treatment	[88]
TN	Measures nutrient removal efficiency	Decreases significantly	[89]
TP	Indicates phosphorus removal and eutrophication control	Decreases significantly	[90,91]
CFU	Assesses microbial contamination and treatment effectiveness	Reduced in FTW outflow	[92]
Heavy Metals	Evaluates phytoremediation and pollutant uptake by plants	Accumulated in plant tissues	[93]

). Together, these metrics provide a comprehensive assessment of both ecosystem health and the effectiveness of FTW-based remediation strategies. This section details the analytical methods, instrumentation, and equations (Equations (1)–(5)) used to quantify these parameters, alongside plant tissue analysis and statistical approaches for evaluating pollutant removal efficiency and plant growth performance.

4.1. Basic Measurement

4.1.1. DO, BOD, COD, and ORP

DO is a key indicator of aquatic ecosystem health, influencing respiration, nutrient cycling, and redox status [94]. BOD₅ is determined by incubating water samples at 20 °C for five days in the dark. COD is determined using the dichromate reflux method, where potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) oxidizes organic matter in the presence of sulfuric acid and silver sulfate (Equation (6)). Unreacted dichromate is titrated with ferrous ammonium sulfate using ferroin as an indicator. ORP is a parameter utilized to evaluate the oxidation or reduction status of water [95].

C + Cr₂O₇²⁻ + H⁺ → CO₂ + Cr³⁺ + H₂O

(6)

4.1.2. pH, Temperature, and Turbidity

Since pH affects the solubility and toxicity of substances in water, acidic conditions increase heavy metal solubility, while alkaline conditions can convert ammonia into its toxic form [96]. Temperature influences chemical reactions, oxygen solubility, and biological processes. It also affects nutrient uptake and microbial activity in FTWs [97]. Turbidity, affected by suspended particles, erosion, and algal blooms, measures water clarity. High turbidity reduces light penetration, affecting photosynthesis and aquatic life.

4.1.3. Nutrient Analysis (TN and TP)

TN is measured by alkaline persulfate digestion and ion chromatography (IC) (Figure 8). TP is determined by converting phosphorus to orthophosphate with potassium persulfate at about 120 °C, then detecting it calorimetrically using ammonium molybdate and ascorbic acid. The reaction forms a blue complex measured at 880 nm (Equations (7)–(10)).

7PO₄³⁻ + 12 [Mo₇O₂₄]⁶⁻ + 72H⁺ → 7 [P(Mo₁₂O₄₀)]³⁻ + 36H₂O

(7)

7 [P(Mo₁₂O₄₀)]³⁻ + reductant → PMo_12-x(VI)MO_X(V/IV) + 3H₂O

(8)

Organic N or NO₃⁻ or NO₂⁻ + H₂SO₄ + K₂S₂O₈ → NH₄⁺ + CO₂ + H₂O

(9)

2K₂HgI₄ + 3KOH + NH₄⁺ → NH₂Hg₂I₃ (yellow brown) + 7KI + 2H₂O

(10)

4.2. Biological Parameters

Microbial Analysis (CFUs and MGA)

CFUs are determined by plating diluted water samples on growth media and incubating to count colonies. MGA involves DNA extraction, fragmentation, and sequencing to identify microbial diversity and resistance genes (Equation (11)).

$$\mathrm{C}\mathrm{F}\mathrm{U}/\mathrm{m}\mathrm{L}={\displaystyle \frac{\mathrm{N}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{m}\mathrm{b}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{r} \mathrm{o}\mathrm{f} \mathrm{c}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{n}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{s}}{\mathrm{D}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{t}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{n} \mathrm{f}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{c}\mathrm{t}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{r} \times \mathrm{V}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{u}\mathrm{m}\mathrm{e} \mathrm{p}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{t}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{d}}}$$

(11)

4.3. Heavy Metal Analysis

Water samples are filtered (0.45 µm), acidified with nitric acid, and stored at 4 °C. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and ICP-MS are used to quantify metals. ICP-OES detects common elements (P, K, Ca, Mg), while ICP-MS is used for trace metals like Cr, As, and Pb. For plant tissue analysis, plant samples are dried, ground, and digested with acids. Nutrient and metal concentrations are measured using AAS, ICP, or IC. Sampling focuses on roots and leaves to assess bioaccumulation.

4.4. Plant Tissue Analysis

Initially, water samples are passed through a 0.45 µm membrane filter, subsequently acidified with nitric acid, and then maintained at 4 °C prior to analysis. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) is used to quantify macronutrients such as phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg), while ICP-MS is employed to detect trace metals, including chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and lead (Pb) [98]. For plant tissue analysis, samples are oven-dried, ground into a fine powder, and digested using acid mixtures. Nutrient and metal concentrations in plant tissues are then determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), ICP techniques, or IC [98]. Sampling typically targets roots and leaves to evaluate bioaccumulation.

4.5. Performance Metrics and Statistical Analysis

Quantifying pollutant removal efficiency and plant performance is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of FTWs. These metrics reflect the system’s ability to reduce nutrient and heavy metal concentrations and support plant growth under stress conditions and monitor contaminant bioaccumulation and translocation within plant tissues. Appendix A.2.1, Appendix A.2.2, Appendix A.2.3, Appendix A.2.4 and Appendix A.2.5 provide standardized equations for calculating the removal efficiency, the removal rate (RR, µg/m²/day), the plant growth rate (cm/day), and tolerance indices, such as the dry biomass tolerance index, shoot length tolerance index, and root length tolerance index.

5. Conclusions

FTWs present a sustainable and innovative approach to water purification by integrating ecological processes with engineered design to tackle complex pollution challenges. This review emphasized the multifactorial nature of FTWs’ performance, highlighting critical parameters such as the hydraulic retention time, mat structure, and plant species selection that significantly influence treatment outcomes. Recent advancements in analytical techniques have enhanced the ability to monitor water quality and assess plant performance. Integrating water sampling with plant tissue analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of contaminant dynamics and remediation effectiveness. Establishing standardized metrics for evaluating plant growth and pollutant uptake is essential for enabling cross-study comparisons and assessing FTWs’ performance across diverse environmental conditions.

While FTWs have demonstrated strong efficacy in removing nutrients and heavy metals, further research is needed to evaluate their long-term stability, resilience to environmental fluctuations, and potential for integration with other treatment technologies. Investigating their capacity to remove emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and microplastics could further expand their application in modern water management. As climate change and urbanization increasingly stress global water resources, FTWs offer a modular, adaptable, and eco-friendly solution. Their multifunctional benefits, ranging from pollutant removal to habitat enhancement, position FTWs as a key component in future water quality strategies. By building on the insights presented in this review, researchers and practitioners can further advance FTWs, contributing to the restoration of aquatic ecosystems and strengthening global water security.