Determination of bacteria with potential for hydrocarbon biodegradation at El Waffe Dock in Turbo, Antioquia, and analysis of environmental policies regarding the bioremediation of coastal areas

Petroleum-derived hydrocarbons are chemical contaminants that are toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic, and that can impact an ecosystems trophic chain. These compounds are primarily generated through anthropogenic activities and are discharged into marine-coastal areas from industrial and maritime transportation sectors. For this study, a bioremediation technique involving the bioprospecting of bacteria with the capacity to degrade total hydrocarbons was employed. Subsequently, selective pressure was applied under conditions of a sole carbon source, successfully isolating 11 morphotypes in pure culture media supplemented with hydrocarbons, thus demonstrating the presence of microorganisms with biodegradative potential. Three zigzag sampling points along El Waffe Dock in Turbo, Antioquia, Colombia were analyzed. Additionally, a comparison of the microscopic and macroscopic characteristics of the isolated strains with the relevant literature was conducted to approach microorganism identification. Finally, a review of the political or regulatory aspects surrounding hydrocarbon bioremediation and the generation of new knowledge in this field in Colombia was carried out.