Microbial Trends in Bioremediation of Oil Contaminated Sites: A Comprehensive Review (Review Article)

Author(s): Mary Sandeepa Gujjula*

Abstract: Hydrocarbons are highly toxic pollutants that are difficult to degrade and can persist in the environment for many years, posing significant threats to the ecological system. Remediating hydrocarbons in contaminated soils has become a challenging task. Currently, bioremediation has gained significant importance compared to other methods, as it is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and can efficiently degrade hydrocarbons in polluted soils. This process relies on microorganisms capable of transforming or mineralizing hydrocarbons. Bacterial degradation processes have proven effective in breaking down various cyclic aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons due to the presence of diverse enzymes, which enable bacteria to utilize different hydrocarbons as sole sources of carbon and energy. However, there remains a gap in knowledge regarding microbial capabilities in degrading different hydrocarbons. This review provides comprehensive information on the classification and associated risks of hydrocarbons, focusing on bioremediation methods, mechanisms involved in treating oil-contaminated soils, and factors affecting bioremediation. Additionally, it highlights key findings on bacterial abilities to degrade various types of hydrocarbons, with particular emphasis on aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, due to their abundance in crude oil and its derivatives.

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