Abstract: The influence of zinc ions on the growth of the bioleaching thermophilic strain HQ0211 was studied. Experimental results showed that if the concentration of zinc ions in liquid medium is lower than 1.0 × 10^-3 mol/L, the growth of the strain is expedited, i.e. zinc ions play a nutrient role of growth. However, the growth is inhibited if the concentration is higher than 1.0 × 10^-2 mol/L, i.e. zinc ions play a toxic role of growth. In case the concentration is down to 8 × 10^-5 mol/L, the strain grows quickest. It was revealed that an appropriate amount of zinc ions enable the strain to grow quickly so as to improve the oxidizing activity and bioleaching ability of the strain, thus enhancing the industrial capacity and economic benefits.