Abstract
The biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons is a valuable process used to reduce the ecological influences of oil spills and pollution. This comprehensive review immerses readers in the sophisticated universe of oil-oxidizing organisms, the diversity and functionality of which are unveiled. By examining different bacterial groups, such as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, fungi, archaea, and algae, the study shows enzymatic and metabolic processes exploited during biodegradation. Environmental factors, substrate characteristics, and microbial interactions are the main determinants that contribute to the good performance of the biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons. The effectiveness of various biotechnological strategies like in-situ and ex-situ bioremediation, bioaugmentation, and bio stimulation is being tested to determine their ability to embrace the microbial capabilities for environmental restoration.