Effect of copper(II) on biodegradation of benzo[a]pyrene by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

► Bio-removal of BaP and Cu(II) combined pollutants was investigated. ► Characteristics and mechanism of BaP removal in the presence of Cu(II) were studied. ► Stenotrophomonas maltophilia secreted new BaP degrading enzyme induced by Cu(II). ► Certain new metabolic products were gained by this Cu(II) induced enzyme.