ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF FIBROLYTIC ENZYMES FROM SHEEP RUMEN BACTERIA.

This study reports characterization of fibrolytic enzymes from rumen bacteria of migratory Gaddi sheep in North- West Himalayan Region (NWHR). A total of 70 cellulolytic bacteria were isolated. Two isolates viz., CDB1 and CDB5 due to higher secretion of fibrolytic enzymes, namely endoglucanase and β-glucosidase were studied. The endoglucanase and βglucosidase activities in isolate CDB1 and isolate CDB5 were found to be 0.720 and 0.696 U/mL and 0.820 and 0.758 U/mL, respectively. The isolate CDB1showed optimal enzyme production using yeast extract, while isolate CDB5 used peptone as nitrogen source for production of the enzyme. The endoglucanase (0.720 and 0.750 U/mL) and βglucosidase (0.710 and 0.722 U/mL) activities in CDB1 and CDB5 were optimal at 40°C and 50°C, respectively. Highest level of endoglucanase (0.742 and 0.850 U/mL) and βglucosidase activities (0.724 and 0.810 U/mL) produced by CDB1 and CDB5 were detected at pH 6.0 to 7.0, and 6.0 to 8.0, respectively. In view of ability of the isolates to inhibit some undesirable microorganisms, and activity of enzymes produced at 40°C and 50°C, it is envisaged that these isolates may have applications as probiotics and additives in silage making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]