Hydrocarbons and Microbial Activities in Sediment of an Arctic Lake One Year After Contamination with Leaded Gasoline

Abstract

Hydrocarbons were found to persist in the sediment of an Arctic lake one year after the lake was accidentally contaminated with leaded gasoline. The contaminating gasoline was continuing to spread from the original site of contamination. High numbers of hydrocarbon utilizing microorganisms were found in the contaminated sediment. Rates of nitrogen fixation did not appear to be affected by hydrocarbon contamination, but potential denitrification activities appeared to be altered by the gasoline. Fertilizer application resulted in a moderate decrease of hydrocarbon concentrations in the sediment.