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Statistical optimization of crude oil bioremediation using Streptomyces aurantiogriseus isolated from Egypt’s Western Desert

Summary

Researchers from Egypt isolated a special type of bacteria called Streptomyces aurantiogriseus that can break down crude oil and remove it from contaminated soil. Using scientific optimization techniques, they found the best conditions for this bacteria to work most effectively, achieving 92% oil removal in soil experiments. This eco-friendly approach offers a sustainable solution to clean up oil-polluted environments without harmful chemicals.

Background

Crude oil pollution is a significant global environmental issue affecting ecosystems, water sources, and soils. Bioremediation using actinobacteria has emerged as a promising eco-friendly approach to degrade petroleum hydrocarbons. This study investigated the potential of Streptomyces species isolated from hydrocarbon-polluted soils in Egypt for crude oil biodegradation.

Objective

To identify and optimize crude oil biodegradation capabilities of Streptomyces species isolated from different hydrocarbon-polluted soils in Egypt. Statistical methods were used to determine critical factors impacting the biodegradation process and establish optimal conditions for maximum crude oil removal.

Results

Streptomyces aurantiogriseus strain NORA7 demonstrated the highest crude oil degradation at 66.28 ± 6.25%. Optimization predicted maximum degradation at 3% crude oil concentration, 0.15 g/L yeast extract, and 25 mm inoculum size, achieving 70% degradation after 3 weeks. Pot experiments showed enhanced crude oil removal of 92% under optimized ex situ conditions.

Conclusion

S. aurantiogriseus NORA7 exhibits significant potential for crude oil biodegradation and could contribute to eco-friendly recovery of oil-polluted ecosystems. The optimized bioaugmentation approach substantially reduces crude oil contamination and minimizes long-term environmental impact of petroleum pollution.
  • Published in:Biodegradation,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40711494, DOI: 10.1007/s10532-025-10154-0
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