Assessment of indigenous bacteria from biodiesel effluents contaminated site

Abstract

This study was conducted in order to identify indigenous microorganisms which have the capability to degrade biodiesel contaminated sites.  Bacterial isolates were identified on the basis of morphological and biochemical characterization in which nine bacteria were isolated from the site, Staphylococcus aureus and micrococcus letus were found to be hydrocarbon degraders during the degradation test. The efficiency of biodegradation capability of isolates was measured by UV spectroscopy for 14 days wavelength of 600nm. The optimal temperatures at which the biodegradation occurred at 30 – 37⁰C. The result obtained demonstrated the potentials of these isolates in situ and/or ex situ bioremediation.

Keywords: Biodiesel, bioremediation, bacteria, effluent, hydrocarbon