Mcb 422 (Petroleum Microbiology)

Methanogenesis is the process in which microbes, specifically methanogens, produce methane. Methanogens are microorganisms that can thrive in anaerobic environments, such as swamps and the intestines of animals. They use carbon dioxide and hydrogen as substrates to produce methane gas. This process is important in the global carbon cycle and contributes to the production of natural gas. Methanogenesis is a crucial step in the breakdown of organic matter and plays a significant role in the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Bacteria use biofilms as their primary tool to adhere to a substrate surface and facilitate metabolism. Biofilms are communities of bacteria that form a protective matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. This matrix allows bacteria to attach to surfaces, protect themselves from harmful conditions, and exchange nutrients with neighboring bacteria. Biofilms play a crucial role in various processes, including nutrient cycling, wastewater treatment, and infection formation.

The correct answer is "Damage to the Ecosystem" because an oil spill in Nigeria would have devastating effects on the ecosystem. Oil spills can contaminate water bodies, killing marine life, destroying habitats, and disrupting the food chain. The spilled oil can also reach the shorelines, damaging coastal ecosystems and affecting plants and animals living in those areas. Additionally, the toxic chemicals released from the oil can have long-term impacts on the environment, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecological imbalance.

Bio corrosion refers to the degradative process that acts on metals, minerals, and rock. It involves the interaction between microorganisms and the material, leading to its deterioration. These microorganisms, such as bacteria, play a crucial role in the corrosion process by producing corrosive agents or altering the surrounding environment. The term "bio corrosion" encompasses various mechanisms, including the action of sulphur oxidizing bacteria, iron bacteria, and sulphate reducing bacteria, among others. Therefore, bio corrosion is the correct answer as it encompasses all these degradative processes.

Bio stimulation is the process of adding nutrient electron acceptor and oxygen to stimulate existing bacteria involved in bioremediation. This technique enhances the activity of naturally occurring microorganisms in contaminated soil or water, promoting the degradation of pollutants. It does not involve introducing new bacteria or organisms like in bio augmentation. Soil ecosystem refers to the complex community of organisms and their interactions in the soil. Bio remediation is a broader term that encompasses various techniques, including bio stimulation and bio augmentation, used to clean up contaminated environments.