Besides temperature, nutrient supply is a very crucial element controlling hydrocarbon biodegradation process. The concentrations of these nutrients will vary depending on the environment. For example, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium present in low levels in freshwater wetlands due to the high demand of these elements by the plants. On the other hand, the presence of surplus nutrients can negatively impact the hydrocarbon biodegradation process. | Besides temperature, nutrient supply is a very crucial element controlling hydrocarbon biodegradation process. The concentrations of these nutrients will vary depending on the environment. For example, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium present in low levels in freshwater wetlands due to the high demand of these elements by the plants. On the other hand, the presence of surplus nutrients can negatively impact the hydrocarbon biodegradation process. |