Hexadecane mineralization activity in hydrocarbon-contaminated soils of Ross Sea region Antarctica may require nutrients and inoculation

► Hydrocarbon mineralization activity can be enhanced in Antarctic soils. ► Some soils exhibited alkane degradation activity despite nitrogen depletion. ► Some Antarctic soil may require supplementation with nutrients (N and P). ► Antarctic soils containing high numbers of hydrocarbon degraders can serve as inocula.