Biodegradation of dibromodiphenyl ether in river sediment

► The aerobic degradation of BDE-15 and the changes in the microbial community in river sediment were assessed. ► The optimal conditions were stimulated by addition of surfactin into the sediment. ► The degradation of BDE-15 was enhanced by a second and third addition of BDE-15. ► Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. were the dominant bacteria in BDE-15 degradation.