Isolation and Characterization of Fungal Isolates from Hydrocarbon Contaminated Intertidal Sediment of Amadi-Ama Creek, Bonny River

Hydrocarbon contamination in intertidal sediments poses significant environmental risks, influencing microbial diversity and ecosystem stability. This study aimed to isolate and characterize indigenous fungal species from hydrocarbon-contaminated sediments of Amadi-Ama Creek, Bonny River, to assess their potential role in hydrocarbon degradation. The study also examined the physiochemical properties of the sediments to establish the extent of contamination and its possible impact on microbial distribution. Sediments were collected from four random points in the hydrocarbon-exposed intertidal zone. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC), Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), and concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, sulfate, iron, copper, zinc, and chromium, were analyzed. Fungal species were isolated using Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar and Czapek Agar supplemented with 0.05% (v/v) chloramphenicol, and their occurrence was determined. The sediments were alkaline (pH 9.33), with hydrocarbon contamination confirmed by THC (11.82 mg/kg), TPH (4.216 mg/kg), and PAHs (2.064 mg/kg). Electrical conductivity and temperature were recorded at 1420 μS/cm and 27.24°C, respectively. Nitrate, phosphate, sulphate, iron, copper, zinc, and chromium concentrations varied, indicating anthropogenic influence. Fungal isolates included Aspergillus niger, (31.9%),Penicillium notatum (25%), Cladosporiumspp. (5.6%), Aspergillus flavus (16.7%), Fusarium solani (9.7%), and Trichodermaspp. (11.1%), with Aspergillus niger being the most dominant specie. The study confirmed hydrocarbon pollution in the sampled site and identified fungal species with potential degradation ability. Aspergillus niger, being the most dominant isolate, may be a promising candidate for bioremediation. The findings also suggest that the fungal isolates may utilize alternative nutrient sources, highlighting their adaptability to extreme environments.