Anaerobic biodegradation plays a critical role in the remediation of petroleum hydrocarbons under oxygen-limited conditions. Molecular Biological Tools (MBTs) identify and quantify microorganisms and functional genes responsible for these biodegradation processes, providing direct evidence of a site's biological potential. When combined with groundwater chemistry and contaminant concentration trends, MBTs help evaluate biodegradation pathways, optimize remedial strategies, and verify remediation performance.
The table below summarizes commonly available microbial targets and functional gene assays used to assess anaerobic biodegradation of BTEX compounds and other petroleum hydrocarbons.
Common Functional Gene and Microbial Biomarker Assays for Anaerobic Hydrocarbon Biodegradation
Molecular Target
Role in Biodegradation
Typical Application
bssA (Benzylsuccinate Synthase)
Initiates anaerobic activation of toluene and some alkylbenzenes.
BTEX, petroleum hydrocarbons
abcA (Anaerobic Benzene Carboxylase)
Associated with anaerobic benzene activation.
Benzene
Benzoyl-CoA Reductase (BCR)
Central enzyme in anaerobic degradation of many aromatic compounds.
Aromatic hydrocarbons
Geobacter metallireducens
Iron-reducing bacterium associated with anaerobic benzene degradation.
Benzene, iron-reducing environments
Total Bacteria
Estimates total bacterial biomass.
Overall microbial activity
Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB)
Indicates sulfate-reducing conditions that support anaerobic biodegradation.
