Oil pollution is an environmental problem that affects marine ecosystems, soil, and groundwater. Petroleum contains a complex mixture of hydrocarbon compounds that differ in their chemical structures, stability, and susceptibility to degradation. Certain bacteria play an important role in the biodegradation of these compounds, as they can use specific types of hydrocarbons as sources of carbon and energy, making them valuable in biological pollution treatment technologies. The ability of bacteria to degrade petroleum depends on their possession of suitable enzymes and metabolic pathways that convert hydrocarbons into simpler products. Some species can break down aliphatic hydrocarbons, while others can degrade certain aromatic compounds. Bacterial genera investigated in this field include Alcanivorax, Rhodococcus, and Pseudomonas, although the capabilities of individual species and strains vary within each genus. The degradation process typically begins when petroleum compounds undergo reactions with enzymes that facilitate the incorporation of oxygen or other initial chemical transformations. Subsequent reactions proceed through metabolic pathways that produce intermediate compounds, which can enter processes involved in energy production and cellular component synthesis. Some compounds may eventually be converted into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass, although the extent of degradation depends on the composition of the petroleum and the environmental conditions. The efficiency of biodegradation is influenced by temperature, oxygen and nutrient availability, salinity, the nature of the soil or sediment, and the bacteria's ability to access the contaminant. Consequently, treatment may require optimizing environmental conditions or selecting suitable bacterial strains, while ensuring that nutrients or chemical substances are not added in quantities that could cause further environmental harm. Bioremediation offers the possibility of using the natural processes of microorganisms to reduce certain pollutants. However, it is not an immediate solution for every case of oil pollution. Heavily contaminated sites require careful assessment and may need a combination of physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods. The study of oil-degrading bacteria highlights the importance of microbial diversity in addressing pollution and contributes to the development of more sustainable approaches for managing contaminated sites and protecting ecosystems. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq