Biodegradation of Crude Oil by Bacteria Isolated from Untouched Soil.
Abstract: The rising global demand for petroleum as an energy source and feedstock for chemical industries has led to a significant increase in crude oil exploration. However, this surge in exploration has also resulted in a growing concern over environmental pollution. In response to this issue, the current study aimed to identify crude oil-degrading microorganisms present in pristine soil and assess their capacity for crude oil degradation.
Pristine soil samples were collected, characterized by a pH of 5.65, and containing 5.22% total organic matter and 5.27% organic carbon. The isolated microorganisms were identified through a combination of morphological observation, physiological, and biochemical tests, leading to the identification of species belonging to Bacillus and Staphylococcus genera.
In laboratory experiments, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated crude oil degradation rates of 28.57% and 31.70%, respectively, after a 28-day incubation period. The primary components degraded from the crude oil were n-alkanes, with some aromatic hydrocarbons converting into intermediate products.
Based on their degradation capabilities, Bacillus and Staphylococcus species show promise as potential candidates for the bioremediation of crude oil-contaminated sites. These isolates exhibited a notable ability to degrade petroleum hydrocarbons, highlighting their potential application in environmental cleanup efforts.
Biodegradation of Crude Oil by Bacteria Isolated from Untouched Soil.