Biodegradation of crude oil in experimentally-polluted clayey and sandy mangrove soils

Comparative study of oil biodegradation in clayey and sandy mangrove soils shows that, during their emergence period, microorganism activity is related to the soil water content. Drying beyond a certain point prevents good nutrient circulation which may lead to a lack of nutrients at the soil-oil interface. An oleophilic fertiliser supplies nutrients which stimulate the biodegradation process. When the soil is swamped, oxygen is the main limiting factor for biodegradation. Thus, water level variation and soil porosity determine conditions which control the biodegradation activity of aerobic microorganisms.