Lies Indah Sutiknowati of BRIN’s Oceanography Research Center shared the results of her study at a press conference in Jakarta on Tuesday.
The study involved isolating and analyzing petroleum hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria found in tropical marine environments.
“Bacteria such as Thalassospira lucentensis hold immense potential to help restore polluted waters, particularly in regions like Indonesia,” she informed.
Compared to chemical treatments, microbial approaches offer a safer and more effective solution for breaking down oil contaminants, she explained.
Her research involved simulating coastal conditions in an aquarium-like artificial beach, where selected marine microorganisms were tested for their ability to break down Arabian Light crude oil.
During the experiment, two types of oil-degrading bacteria were identified -- those that grow rapidly within seven days and others that work more slowly over 21 days but excel at decomposing more complex compounds.
“Among the standout strains is Thalassospira sp. strain 1-1B, which can survive in temperatures up to 32 degrees Celsius, making it well-suited to tropical seas,” she said.
Sutiknowati added that despite its slower growth rate, the strain can break down a wide range of oil components, ranging from lighter fractions to heavier residues.
The discovery offers new hope for marine sustainability. Sutiknowati said she believes that with continued technological support and scientific collaboration, marine bacteria may become the unsung guardians of Indonesia’s coastal ecosystems.
BRIN is committed to using native microorganisms to develop long-term, nature-based solutions for protecting not just Indonesian waters but oceans across the globe.
Related news: Ministry holds Marpolex to train personnel in handling oil spills
Translator: Sean Filo Muhamad, Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
