Abstract: In the present study, an attempt was made to examine the ability of bacterial isolates to degrade kerosene. Oil-contaminated soil samples from various locations at Kottayam were used for isolating oil degrading microorganisms. Production of biosurfactants and increased emulsification index by the isolates enhanced their oil degrading ability. The biosurfactant producing ability of the microorganisms was determined by hemolytic assay, drop collapse test and methylene blue agar plate method. The isolated organisms which showed increased biosurfactant production and emulsification index were identified as Pseudomonas sp., Serratia sp. and Bacillus sp. based on their biochemical characteristics. Pseudomonas sp. reduced kerosene from 25ml to11.8ml, Bacillus sp. From 25ml to 12ml and Serratia sp. from 25ml to 13.2ml within a period of 15days. The emulsifying bacteria were able to transform kerosene into an emulsion. These bacterial isolates can be used to remove oil from oil-polluted areas.
Keywords: Kerosene, biodegradation, bio surfactant, emulsification, hydrocarbon, contamination.
Title: Biodegradation of Kerosene by Bacterial Isolates
Author: Jerish John, Roshini Susan Elias, Dr. M. Balasundaran, Dr. Punnen Kurian
International Journal of Life Sciences Research
ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online)
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