Sulfamethoxazole biodegradation and biotransformation in the water-sediment system of a natural river

► SMX biodegradation as affected by temperature, humic acid and SMX concentrations. ► Higher temperature and humic acid contents significantly increase SMX removal. ► SMX degradation was not dependent on its initial concentrations. ► A co-metabolism mechanism may involove in SMX biodegradation. ► Bacteria strains of Bacillus firmus and Bacillus cereus have the potential to degrade SMX.