A Green Approach for Microbial- Enhanced Bioremediation of BTEX Contaminated Soils

BTEX compounds benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene are persistent and toxic petroleum hydrocarbons that pose serious risks to both environmental and human health. This study presents a sustainable microbial- enhanced bioremediation approach focused on the isolation and characterization of indigenous bacterial strains from hydrocarbon-contaminated soils in Mumbai. Strain N04, identified through enrichment in Bushnell-Haas medium with BTEX as the sole carbon source, demonstrated broad-spectrum degradation capacity for benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX). Its degradation efficiency was confirmed through time-course studies using Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detection (GC–FID), revealing a 98% reduction in BTX over 21 days. Biochemical characterization indicated selective yet diverse metabolic traits, including positive urease activity and carbohydrate fermentation. These findings validate the metabolic adaptability of native microbes in hydrocarbon-stressed environments and reinforce their potential in eco-friendly and cost-effective remediation strategies. This study lays the groundwork for future research involving molecular identification, pathway elucidation, and field-scale implementation of microbial BTEX degradation.