Invisible heroes: the role of microorganisms in the cleanup of hydrocarbons in the sea

Abstract

In today’s world, oil spills are no longer isolated incidents. Extensive use of hydrocarbons greatly increases the likelihood of spills. Unfortunately, Peru is no exception when it comes to the incidence of oil spills. As a response to such events, bioremediation with marine microorganisms (bacteria and cyanobacteria) represents a sustainable solution in the implementation of contingency plans against potential hydrocarbon contamination. Among the most important bacteria in this regard are the genera Achromobacter, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Alteromonas, Haloferula, Ruegeria and Alcanivorax. Additionally, native Peruvian bacteria such as Vibrio fluvialis, Vibrio sp. and the cyanobacterium Anabaena cicadae have been shown to possess biodegradation potential. It is imperative that authorities promote research on the use of indigenous microbial consortia in natural environments, in addition to nutrients, in different strata and zones along the Peruvian coast.