Biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons by mixed bacterial cultures isolated from local contaminated sources

Abstract

Petroleum hydrocarbons, essential for industry, transportation, and daily life, often lead to environmental pollution due to spills during production, refining, and transportation of crude oil and its derivatives. To address hydrocarbon pollution, bacterial degradation offers a practical, economical, and environmentally friendly solution. This study aims to develop an effective bacterial mixed culture using newly isolated bacteria from locally contaminated sources for the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons and remediation of diesel pollution in soil and water. Emphasis was given on isolating strains from local sources to develop more adaptable and effective strains for local use.