For 10 Groups >> The science of biodegradation, the process by which compounds are naturally broken down by microbes, is examined in this experiment. This naturally occurring process can be enhanced by bioremediation to minimize the catastrophic effects of oil spills. Students will grow a mixture of oil-eating bacteria and demonstrate how the enzymes produced by these microbes digest hydrocarbon molecules, causing degradation. >> EXPERIMENT INCLUDES • Complete instructions, background information and study questions • Oil-eating Bacteria pellets • Growth medium • Pipets >> REQUIREMENTS Shaking Incubation Oven (optional) or stir plate and stir bars • Growth Flasks • Vegetable Oil (and other food oils) • Autoclave • Distilled Water • Pipet Pumps >> TIME REQUIREMENTS After establishment of cultures (1-2 days), the experiment can be performed during one 50-minute lab period. Alternatively, this inquiry-based experiment can be conducted over the course of several days or weeks.