Diesel oil degradation and biosurfactant potential of novel indigenous bacterial strain Onchobactrum intermedium

The extensive worldwide usage of Petroleum Hydrocarbons (PHs) for energy leads to the petroleum spills posing significant hazards to environmental health. The remediation procedure for these pollutants is often extensive, laborious, and relies heavily on chemical treatments, which contradict the principles of sustainable development. Hence, the development of green technology-based solutions for remediation drives is imperative. This study highlights the significance of utilizing Onchobactrum intermedium as an eco-friendly and cost-effective resource for environmental remediation, offering a sustainable and efficient approach to mitigating petroleum spill-related hazards. Interestingly, this bacterium was isolated from diesel oil-contaminated soil in the Haldwani & Lalkuan region of Uttarakhand, India, and identified on the basis of 16S rRNA sequence analysis, embarking this study as a first report of the bacterium claiming as a diesel oil degrading agent. Through gravimetric analysis, the study found that Onchobactrum intermedium breaks down 55.17% of diesel oil in 35 days at 30 °C. Remarkably, the treatment reduced the half-life of diesel from 76.5 days to 27.5 days compared to the control. GC-MS examination of the residual diesel showed degradation of organic components between C9 and C27, with C21 exhibiting substantial degradation competence. Moreover, Onchobactrum intermedium was recognized as a potential fabricator of biosurfactants, with lipopeptides biosurfactant production documented at 2.85 g/L. These biosurfactants can improve the emulsification of diesel oil, making Onchobactrum intermedium more operative for diesel oil degradation. This study not only advances our understanding of microbial bioremediation but also provides a practical solution that aligns with sustainable development goals.