Microbial Diversity and Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon in Impacted Soils and Water Bodies in Niger Delta Area of Nigeria

Microbial diversity of hydrocarbon in polluted soil and water bodies explains the variability that exists among various species microorganisms inhabiting such environments. Sources these pollutions include others polycyclic hydrocarbons, heavy metals contamination, industrial wastes unregulated use pesticides. No doubt, Niger Delta region is heavily due to exploration activities petroleum prospecting industries, including illegal locals. This has grossly affected distribution existence some microorganisms. The survival microbes sites depends largely on their ability adapt, tolerate and/or degrade pollutants. degradation hydrocarbons resulted formation metabolites which influences indigenous microbial species. There a significant relationship between level contamination alterations community. Decontamination can be used increase biodiversity. Therefore, biodiversity influenced by concentration ecotoxicological effect pollution need for oxygen during hydrocarbon. In reduced supply, serious ecological damage may take place. Also, presence organic compounds enhance toxicity