Promiscuity comes at a price: Catalytic versatility vs efficiency in different metal ion derivatives of the potential bioremediator GpdQ

► GpdQ is a highly promiscuous phosphoesterase and is useful as a bioremediator. ► The metal ion composition modulates the reaction mechanism. ► The catalytic efficiency of GpdQ is modest. ► Modest catalytic efficiency may be the basis for rapid functional adaptability.