Long-chain n-alkanes occurring during microbial degradation of petroleum
1976 ◽
Vol 22
(6)
◽
pp. 886-891
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Keyword(s):
Five axenic cultures and a mixed culture were examined for ability to degrade South Louisiana, Brass River Nigerian, Anaco Venezuelan, and Altamont crude oils. A wax was observed during microbial degradation of Altamont crude oil, but not during weathering of the oil. The high-boiling n-alkanes in the wax were associated with microbial degradation of the oil and appeared to be similar to components of tarballs found in the open ocean.