Recent advances in the biodegradation of hydrocarbons by Acinetobacter species

Abstract:

Bacteria affiliated with the genus Acinetobacter distribute widely in the natural environment. By emulsifying and degrading hydrocarbons, bacteria in this genus play great roles in biodegrading of hydrocarbons. In this review, we summarized the research progress in biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons by Acinetobacter spp. We also discussed known alkane and aromatic oxidases. Different types of surfactant produced by bacteria in the genus Acinetobacter and their emulsifying mechanisms were concluded. Immobilization of functional bacteria and their potential use were mentioned. Biodegradation of hydrocarbons using bacteria in field were prospected in this review.