Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Biosurfactant Producing Bacteria

Biosurfactants are surface-active compounds produced by microorganisms with broad environmental and industrial significance. Due to their amphiphilic structure, biodegradability, and production from renewable sources, biosurfactants are emerging as sustainable alternatives to synthetic surfactants. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the isolation of biosurfactant-producing bacteria, screening techniques, molecular characterization, and diverse applications in agriculture, bioremediation, and healthcare. Special attention is given to microbial strains isolated from oil-contaminated environments, their plant growth-promoting (PGP) attributes, metal tolerance, and antimicrobial potential. The review also outlines screening protocols and biochemical techniques to identify potent strains, and discusses their role in sustainable agriculture and ecological restoration.