Optimization of alkaline amylase production by thermophilicBacillus stearothermophilus AN 002

Bacillus stearothermophilus AN 002 secreted thermostable alkaline amylase into a liquid growth medium containing 2 g/l starch. Amylase activity was highest at early stationary phase of growth. Among the various carbohydrates tested maximum amylase production was obtained with starch. When starch was replaced by other carbon sources, amylase production was reduced. Peptone and corn steep liquor (CSL) were the ideal nitrogen sources for amylase production by this strain. Of the phosphate sources tested, (NH4)2HPO4 showed best restults. Amylase production was highest in a laboratory fermenter at a initial pH of 6.5 and at a constant pH of 7.0. The optimum aeration and agitation for amylase production were 0.66 v/v/m and 400 rev/min, respectively. Maximum growth was obtained at 55 °C and maximum amylase was produced at 50 °C. The amylase was found to be stable between pH 6.0 to 11.0.