Isolation and characterization of oil degrading bacteria isolated from artificially crude oil-contaminated soil

The purpose of this study is to identify and isolate bacteria that degrade crude oil (CO) in an artificially polluted soil, with the aim of designing the study to better understand local bacteria adaptation to CO pollution. Soil samples were artificially contaminated with CO and then incubated for 60 days in order to promote microbial adaptability and the enrichment of populations that can break down hydrocarbons. Subsequent to the incubation period, bacterial strains were identified and their ability to degrade CO was described. Furthermore, the isolates' biosurfactant (BS) and bioemulsifier (BE) synthesis was assessed. The results showed that extended exposure to CO leads to selective enrichment of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria, indicating adaptation to the pollutant. Some bacterial isolates, like S4 and S5 (Pseudomonas indica), shows high CO degradation rate (45 % and 50 % respectively) and shows high BE index (Pseudomonas indica, E24; 45 % and 50 %, respectively) while S1 (Brevibacillus formosus) and exhibits moderate CO degradation efficiency (33 %). In addition to their significant CO-degrading activity, some isolates (S4 and S5) have the ability to produce BS and BE, which indicates their potential for use in bioremediation processes. This technique offers a quick and affordable way to separate and specifically enrich bacteria that can decompose CO in a controlled environment. CO bioremediation using microbial consortia may increase with further advancements in this technique.