The biosorption of toxic metals from an aqueous mixture containing zinc, copper and nickel, in the presence of calcium and sodium ions (usual co-existing cations in related systems) has been investigated. Industrial biomass samples of different origin have been examined batchwise as effective sorbents, including bacteria (Streptomyces rimosus), fungi (Penicillium chrysogenum) and yeasts (Saccharomyces carlsbergensis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The effect of solution pH was evaluated in the range of 3-11.5. Selectivity was observed, particularly for the removal of copper. The observed removal of metals by the application of biosorption was also compared in laboratory experiments with other more conventional separation techniques (filtration, centrifugation and flotation).