Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon in the Wetlands by Estuarine Biofilms

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kigigha, Lovet T. | Underwood, Graham J.C.

Affiliations: Department of Biological Sciences, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, PMB 71, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria | Department of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: As a result of increased generation of energy from fossil fuel in recent times, there is increased contamination of sensitive ecosystems (such as the estuaries) worldwide. The human population is not exposed to the severity of the impact of pollutants due largely to the activities of microorganisms. The survival of mankind from increasing pollution inevitably depends on the constant monitoring of the environment. The estuaries exhibit interesting features as choice human habitats in which pollutants are circulated continuously. The biota (especially the microalgal and bacterial biofilms) in such ecosystems become hardy and are very valuable agents in pollutant biodegradation. This paper reviews the peculiar nature of the estuaries in recycling pollutants; the interaction between the resilient estuarine biofilms and recalcitrant PHC in the wetlands and the field evaluation of in situ bioremediation.

Keywords: Petroleum hydrocarbon, estuary, biofilm, pollution, biodegradation, toxicity

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 6, no. 4, pp. 11-25, 2009