HYDROCRBON DEGRADATION POTENTIALS OF FUNGI ISOLATED FROM OIL-CONTAMINATED SOIL OF MECHANIC WORKSHOP

Abstract

Petroleum hydrocarbon pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems due to its persistence

and toxicity. This study explores the potential of fungi to catabolize and metabolize diesel, with a

view to offering a promising biotechnological solution for environmental clean-up. Soil samples

were collected from mechanic workshops within Kaduna metropolis. Fungi were isolated and

screened for their ability to degrade diesel. Sixteen (16) fungal isolates were recovered and

screened for diesel utilization which include Rhizopus stolonifer, Candida alblicans, Aspergillus

fumigatus, Penicillium sp., Exophiala sp., Fusarium sp. and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Among

these, Aspergillus flavus and Exophiala sp. demonstrated the highest degradation potential with

residual oil of 0.39 and 0.41 respectively. The best performing isolates were further subjected to

biodegradation study for 15 days using gravimetric method. From the results obtained, 68% and

63% degradation was recorded for Aspergillus flavus and Exophiala sp. respectively. The findings

underscore the enzymatic versatility of fungi and their capacity to thrive in polluted environments,

making them ideal agents for sustainable waste management. This study contributes to the growing

body of research advocating for eco-friendly, low-cost alternatives remediation approach.