Characterization of Biosurfactant Producing Bacteria from Oil Contaminated Sediments: Enterobacter cloacae as a Key Agent for Hydrocarbon Degradation and Environmental Remediation

Biosurfactants are microbial surfactants with significant potential in environmental applications, particularly bioremediation and oil spill management.This study aimed to isolate and characterize biosurfactant-producing bacteria from oil-contaminated sites in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.A total of 42 bacterial isolates were screened using Blue agar, Blood hemolysis, Drop collapse, and Oil spreading tests.The most promising isolates were identified via 16S rRNA sequencing, with Enterobacter cloacae demonstrating the highest biosurfactant production (0.641 g) and oil degradation (23.5%).GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of fatty acids, suggesting a rhamnolipid biosurfactant with an anionic nature.The emulsification index and BATH assay confirmed its strong hydrocarbon degradation potential.These findings highlight the promising role of E. cloacae in biosurfactant production and hydrocarbon bioremediation.Future research should focus on genetic enhancements and field trials to optimize its environmental applications.