OPTIMISATION OF CRUDE OIL DEGRADATION BY HYDROCARBON-DEGRADING FUNGAL SPECIES ISOLATED FROM MECHANIC WORKSHOP SITE IN ANYIGBA, KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26538/tjdr/v3i2.4Keywords:
Bioremediation, fungal degradation, pH optimization, heavy metals, hydrocarbon pollutionAbstract
Purpose: This study optimised crude oil degradation using fungal species (Trichoderma spp., Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp.) isolated from mechanic workshop soils in Anyigba, Nigeria. Mechanic workshops are hotspots for oil pollution, yet indigenous fungal adaptability remains understudied. Methods: Degradation efficiency under varying pH (4, 7, 10) and heavy metals (CuSO4, HgCl2) via gravimetric analysis was evaluated. Results: Trichoderma spp. showed peak degradation (15.48%) at pH 4, consistent with optimal fungal enzyme activity in acidic conditions, while alkaline pH (10) reduced efficiency to <1.3%. Notably, HgCl2 enhanced degradation (Trichoderma spp.: 26.8%; Penicillium spp.: 22.35%), suggesting adaptive metal tolerance from chronic soil contamination. CuSO4 had minimal impact (<8.3%). Though degradation rates were moderate (<30%), the results highlight the potential of indigenous fungi, especially Trichoderma spp., for bioremediation in acidic or HgCl2 - amended environments. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that the degradation efficiency of indigenous fungi is highly dependent on environmental parameters. Trichoderma spp. emerged as the most promising fungus, showing not only a preference for acidic conditions but also a potentially stimulatory response to mercury, suggesting prior adaptation. While the absolute degradation rates were modest, the significant influence of pH and heavy metals underscores the critical importance of environmental optimization.Downloads
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