Abstract

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This study was performed to examine the potential of indigenous consortium of Pseudomonas strains by assessing the metabolic compounds from degradation of petrochemical contaminated soil. Native microorganisms were isolated using standard microbiological procedures and molecular identification technique. The physiochemical analysis was conducted using standard laboratory procedure of American Public Health Association (APHA). Bioremediation of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) and assessment of metabolic compounds from degradation of petrochemicals were by gravimetric technique. The identified bacteria were Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PAER4 119, Pseudomonas mendocina strain NK-01 and Pseudomonas putida strain B6-2. Observations revealed that the physiochemical properties were affected due to high pollution level. Highest percentage reduction of the TPH was recorded at 74.5 9% by P. putida, 67.57 % by P. aeruginosa, 61.62 % by P. mendocina, and 80.81 % by consortium. Also highest percentage reduction of the metabolic compounds showed; 62%, 75 %, 68 %, and 81% for saturated hydrocarbon, 86.25 %, 87.50 %, 91 % and 92 % for phenolic compound, 94.06 %, 95.05 %, 96.53 %, and 97.03 % for asphaltene and polar compound, and 88.89 %, 94.44 %, 94.42%, and 97.22% for aromatic compound. The percentage reductions recorded were achieved by P. mendocina, P. putida, P. aeruginosa, and the consortium respectively. This study shows that the TPH and their metabolic compounds were highly degraded. These strains and the assessment technique can be employed in biodegradation of petrochemical contaminated environment and also in the monitoring of biodegradation studies

Keywords: Biodegradation, metabolic compounds, petrochemical contaminated soil, physicochemical parameters and Pseudomonas strains.