Abstract

Pollution of farm land is ubiquitous in oil producing regions. The intent of this study was to evaluate the influence of various hydrocarbons on soil catalase (CAT) as well as dehydrogenase(DH) activity. The experiment was consisted of known amount of soil treated with varying amounts of various hydrocarbons and left to stand for twelve days. At four days interval, the activities of CAT and DH were assayed using standard methods. The results showed a significant (p<0.05) disparity in enzyme activity. CAT activity was lesser in petrol infused soil comparative to the other hydrocarbons as number of days progressed, with engine oil tainted soil exhibiting more sustained activity. Also, a significant increase