Microorganisms and Halophytes Attracted to the Northeast Coast of Qatar for Potential Phytoremediation: A Case Study and Analysis

The area of Northeast coast of Qatar has been actively engaged in industrial oil and gas activities for many years. It is part of the northern basin of underground water and is affected by many environmental and industrial factors, such as the intrusion of polluted saline seawater, which could greatly impact the levels of inorganic and organic components of the land. Moreover, industrial expansions could add more impacts to the pollution levels in this area. The high salinity levels in the sabkha of this area are attributed to ions that are normally found in saline patches, such as sodium, chloride, and calcium. However, other heavy elements are found, such as boron and strontium. This study discusses the role of the industrial activities in the accumulation of these elements in the soil. Analyses show that the sabkha of Al Ghariya contains four Bacillus species: B. vallismortis, B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, and B. cereus (reliability codes: 1.80, 1.91, 1.99, and 2.01, respectively). Among these species, B. licheniformis is identified as a new record of polyextremophiles that are adapted to various environmental conditions. The possible roles of these Bacillus spp. at the polluted area are discussed. Some fungi genera were also identified, and the results reflect how the harsh environment negatively impacts microbial counts and attract more candidates for bioremediation and phytoremediation. The biological roles of halophytes and their associated microorganisms in these saline lands are discussed. The gene bank of these organisms offers opportunities for further studies to develop a biological system capable of remediating and sustaining agricultural lands, as well as improving the production of many biological components in health, agriculture, and the economy.