Enhancement of microbial degradation of oil pollutants using lipophilic fertilizers

Abstract Lipophilic phosphorus and nitrogen-containing compounds were screened to attain a fertilizing composition to enhance microbial degradation of oil pollutants in the aquatic environment. Soya-bean lecithin and ethyl allophanate have been proved to be good sources of phosphorus and nitrogen, respectively, for oil degrading microorganisms. Enzymedependent mechanisms regulate the release of nutrients according to environmental needs.