An intriguing question is; to what extent does the influence of temperature on biodegradation rates determined in laboratory experiments reflect the effect of temperature on biodegradation in natural systems of geographically and climatically different areas? As an overall result of the present review, biodegradation rate predictions calculated by temperature compensation approach are uncertain. Large variation of Q10 values have been found in the reviewed studies, therefore alternative Q10 range or value has not been recommended as a replacement for the current rule of thumb. Instead, characteristics of the substrate (e.g. different crude oil types) and other experimental factors were discussed in relation to their influence on observed Q10 values. Considering non-nutrient limiting conditions, indirect effects of temperature, such as its influence on substrate bioavailability and number and metabolic activity of active bacteria have been proposed to be reflected in Q10 values. Consequently, it is concluded that Q10 values measured in temperature controlled studies do not describe intrinsic temperature sensitivity of oil biodegradation (i.e. sensitivity of the metabolic processes involved in biodegradation). That can only be determined after removing the contribution of the proposed additional factors. Future research needs to focus on discovering these contributions by systematic testing of each parameter. It is important to highlight that metabolic activity, determined by the bacterial community composition, is a key parameter. Replacing the temperature compensation approach would require developing coupled physical-metabolic-ecological models in order to be able to describe the complex microbial ecosystems established around marine oil biodegradation. Until such a better approach is developed, adequate biodegradation rate predictions based on temperature compensation depend on the existence of a common inherent biodegradation rate, characteristic to all marine microbial communities at the same temperature. Hence, most importantly, there is a need for studies assessing and comparing biodegradation rates of distinct marine microbial communities under well-defined conditions, i.e. using the same methodology, oil types and controlling concentrations of nutrients and amount and composition of biomass.