African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 6 (8), pp. 991-993, 16 April 2007   

ISSN 1684–5315 © 2007 Academic Journals        

Short Communication

Microbial flora of oil-spilled sites in Egbema, Imo State, Nigeria

Okereke,  J.  N.*, Obiekezie, S. O. and Obasi, K. O.

Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria.

*Corresponding authors E-mail: chinwendubueze@yahoo.com.

Accepted 28 August, 2006

The microbial flora of areas with and without oil spillage within the Egbema oil field in Ohaji/Egbema of Imo State was determined by standard microbiological methods. Preliminary results show moderate biological activities in both environments studied. The average microbial population of the area with oil spillage was 3.08 x 10⁷ cfu/g, while that of the adjoining environment was 3.14 x 10⁷ cfu/g for bacteria. Fungi population was of the order 10⁶. The microorganisms isolated were identified to species level. Majority of the microorganisms were true bacteria. Actinomycete species were also found. In general, species difference between the two environments tended to be considerably significant. Since species and microbial population differences in soils are directly proportional to the availability of carbon source (nutrient), soil acidity, oxygen level and other factors, the significant variation in species and slight difference in microbial population observed are indicative of the effects of oil spillage on microbial flora of a given area.

Key words: Biodegradation, bioremediation, environment, microflora, oil-spill, pollution.