Hydrocarbon degrading bacteria vs microbial consortia in the degradation of Policyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

The Harbor of Priolo Gargallo is a chronically polluted area in Sicily (Italy). Bioremediation is an alternative friendly strategy to reduce environmental risks that relies on microorganisms that play a key role in the biodegradation of hydrocarbon contaminants. In this study, sediment samples were collected in 6 stations inside the area indicated. Analysis of total hydrocarbons, microbial abundance (DAPI, CFU and MPN), and total bacterial diversity (DGGE) were carried out. Enrichment cultures and isolation of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria were carried out in the mineral medium ONR7a with a mix of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs-Mix; Methylnaphtalene, Byphenile, Phenantrene, Dibenzo…