Optimization of Biofilm Formation in Fungi Isolated from Crude Oil Refinery Sludge for Enhanced Bioremediation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51459/jostir.2026.2.1.0252Abstract
Biofilm formation enhances the survival of filamentous fungi in hydrocarbon contaminated environments. Optimization of biofilm formation is significant in selecting fungal species with biodegradation potential. In this study, fungal isolates including Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizopus nigricans, Aspergillus aculeatus SFO13 and Fusarium chlamydosporum were assessed for biofilm forming ability under varying culture conditions. The effect of carbon sources (glucose, sucrose, crude oil), pH, temperature and incubation period on biofilm production were evaluated in a microtiter plate assay using one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) method. The biofilm mass was quantified spectrophotometrically (OD560). Result showed that optimal biofilm (0.92 nm) formation occurred at 28℃ after 24 h incubation at pH 5-7 in the presence of glucose or sucrose as carbon source. Extended incubation period favoured biofilm (0.22 nm) development when crude oil was used as sole carbon source. Aspergillus aculeatus SFO13 and Aspergillus fumigatus exhibited superior biofilm-forming capacity (0.22 nm and 0.15 nm respectively) in oil rich medium. This study demonstrates that controlled optimization of growth conditions significantly enhanced fungal biofilm formation and crude oil utilization, supporting the application of these parameters for sustainable bioremediation strategies.
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