“Oil eating” microbes may help protect our oceans in the future

What is it about?

Crude oil pollution is a big issue today, more so around water bodies. Crude oil does not mix with water. So, it ends up covering the surface of water and causes problems for aquatic ecosystems. This upsets the delicate balance of nature in these ecosystems. There is, however, a solution to this problem. Certain microbes can use hydrocarbons in crude oil as a food source. So, they can be used to break down crude oil on the surface of water bodies. Scientists compared groups of microbes in clean as well as oil-polluted ocean sand. They looked at the genetic makeup of these microbes and the proteins they make. It was found that the microbes in polluted sand had adapted to be able to consume crude oil. These microbes were better at feeding on certain components in crude oil. They also produced more enzymes to break down crude oil. Groups of microbes that could thrive in polluted sand were further identified.

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Photo by Peter Olexa on Unsplash

Photo by Peter Olexa on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research gives scientists the inside scoop about which microbes are good at breaking down crude oil, and how they do it. These microbes could prove valuable in the fight against oil pollution! Scientists can use them to create smart solutions for cleaning up oil spills in the oceans. This could help protect delicate aquatic ecosystems. KEY TAKEAWAY: Microbes in sand polluted with crude oil are experts in breaking down crude oil. These "oil eating" microbes could be used to clear oil spills in the open ocean, among other uses! They can help protect aquatic life. This research relates to the following Sustainable Development Goals: • SDG 14: Life Below Water • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure • SDG 15: Life on Land