Delving of a Promising Bioemulsifier Producing Bacterium from an Oil Contaminated Coastal Site and its Enhanced Production

Abstract

Chemical surfactants are non-biodegradable and harmful, thus researchers are looking for better alternatives. The present study aimed to isolate bioemulsifier producing bacteria from oil-contaminated sediments. Nearly, 19 morphologically distinct bacteria were isolated and screened for bioemulsifier producing potential. Based on the screening, one efficient isolate PHCS 7 was selected and further subjected to molecular identification. After characterization, the isolate was identified as Acinetobacter beijerinckii PHCS 7 and further employed for growth kinetic profiling and optimization of physical factors for bioemulsifier production. During 48hrs incubation, A. beijerinckii PHCS 7 showed 64.6% emulsification activity with 8.69g/L of cell biomass. Similarly, during the optimization study pH, 8 and temperature of 35°C favored 67.9% and 69.7% emulsification activity, respectively. The current research establishes a foundation for future research on cost-effective large-scale production.