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Screening and Identification of Trichoderma Strains Isolated from Natural Habitats with Potential to Cellulose and Xylan Degrading Enzymes Production

Summary

This research examined fungi from the Trichoderma genus for their ability to produce enzymes that break down plant material. The study found several promising strains that could efficiently degrade tough plant components like cellulose and xylan. Impacts on everyday life: – Could lead to more efficient production of biofuels from plant waste – May improve processing of agricultural residues into useful products – Could enhance production of industrial enzymes used in paper, textile and food industries – Potential for developing more sustainable waste management solutions – May reduce dependence on fossil fuels through better biomass utilization

Background

Lignocellulose is a major component of plant biomass, representing over half of globally produced organic matter during photosynthesis. Despite its abundance and energy potential, this resource remains underutilized due to its complex structure consisting of polymeric compounds like cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignin and pectin. The presence of these highly polymerized compounds limits their use as carbon/energy sources for animals and typical fermentation microorganisms.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the ability of Trichoderma fungi isolated from different habitats to produce cellulose and xylan degrading enzymes and determine the activity of those enzymes.

Results

Over 34% of strains exhibited higher cellulolytic activity and 45% showed higher xylanolytic activity compared to the reference strain T. reesei QM 9414. The highest enzyme activities were found in T. harzianum and T. virens strains, particularly those isolated from forest wood, forest soil, and garden/mushroom compost. Selected strains showed filter paper activity ranging from 1.01 to 7.15 FPU/ml.

Conclusion

The results confirmed that numerous Trichoderma strains have high cellulose and xylan degradation potential, particularly those isolated from forest environments and compost. Due to their enzyme production capabilities and good growth characteristics, these fungi may be valuable for industrial applications in lignocellulose biomass conversion.
  • Published in:Polish Journal of Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research Study,
  • Source: 10.21307/pjm-2018-021
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