Physicochemical Properties of Petroleum-Polluted Soils and Their Influence on Fungal Communities: A Statistical Analysis

This study examines physicochemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, total petroleum hydrocarbons) of petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC)-polluted soils (Manglia Gaon, Indore) versus control soils (Rau, Indore) and their impact on fungal communities. Polluted soils exhibited elevated TPH (950–1150 mg/kg), slight nitrogen (216.79 kg/ha) and phosphorus (12.25 kg/ha) enrichment, but nitrogen deficiency and high salinity (1.92 dS/m). Surface soils were warmer (+0.44°C at 10–15 cm, p<0.01). Two-way ANOVA revealed soil type effects on nitrogen (p=0.02) and depth effects on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (p<0.05). Pearson’s correlations showed low organic carbon (r=-0.45) and high TPH linked to reduced fungal richness, favoring tolerant species. These constraints highlight the need for soil amendments like nitrogen and organic matter to enhance fungal bioremediation, offering insights for sustainable restoration of PHC-contaminated sites.