MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Efficacy of Indigenous Bacteria in the Biodegradation of Hydrocarbons Isolated from Agricultural Soils in Huamachuco, Peru

Summary

Researchers in Peru identified four types of bacteria from agricultural soil that can break down diesel and other hydrocarbon pollutants. One strain, Pseudomonas protegens, was particularly effective, removing over 91% of hydrocarbons in 10 days. This discovery offers a natural, cost-effective way to clean contaminated soil without using harsh chemicals, which could help protect both human health and the environment.

Background

Pollution from crude oil and its derivatives poses a serious threat to human health and ecosystems. Biodegradation using microorganisms presents a promising and cost-effective solution for hydrocarbon contamination. Exploring bacterial strains from underexplored habitats could improve remediation efforts at contaminated sites.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the hydrocarbon biodegradation capacity of bacteria isolated from agricultural soils in Huamachuco, Peru, specifically from Oca crop fields.

Results

Four bacterial strains were identified: Pseudomonas protegens (PROM2), Pseudomonas citri (PROM3), Acinetobacter guillouiae (ClyRoM5), and Priestia flexa (PROM1). Pseudomonas protegens achieved the highest efficiency in removing total hydrocarbons at 91.5 ± 0.7%, while PROM3 and ClyRoM5 demonstrated 67 ± 1.41% and 57.5 ± 0.71% removal, respectively.

Conclusion

Indigenous bacteria from uncontaminated agricultural soils present high potential for hydrocarbon bioremediation. Pseudomonas protegens PROM2 demonstrated superior degradation capacity, while Pseudomonas citri and Acinetobacter guillouiae showed versatility in removing individual hydrocarbons, offering effective ecological solutions for soil decontamination.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms12091896; PMID: 39338570
Scroll to Top