Biochemical Characterization and Isolation of Cellulolytic Bacteria from Rumen Fluid of Cattle

Abstract

This study investigated about the isolation and identification of cellulytic bacteria from rumen fluid, their ability to produce cellulase enzyme and the effect of pH, temperature, and incubation period in the production of cellulase enzyme. The importance of microbial cellulose utilization in natural environments is further enhanced by the status of ruminants as a major source of dietary protein. The microbiological use of cellulose is a significant aspect in achieving the highest possible material flow in the environment. Numerous industries, including the food industry, agriculture, textile, detergent, pulp and paper, generation of biofuels, brewing, and biorefinery, have extensive uses for cellulase enzyme. In the present study, cellulolytic bacterium Pseudomonas sp. was isolated from rumen fluid of cattle was collected from slaughter house. This bacterial isolate was identified by morphological, biochemical, and physiochemical characteristics. Cellulase production by the bacteria was optimized. The collection of more bacterial isolates from rumen fluid sample and genetic engineering approach would provide more pace to degrade the organic wastes that is now a concern for the development of ecologically sound and health promoting ways for the management of the environment.

Optimum cellulase was produced by Pseudomonas sp. which was observed under different pH, temperature, and incubation period. The highest production of cellulase enzyme by this bacterium was monitored at pH 7.0 for 48 hours under 3 days of cultivation at 40°C. The enzyme activity was observed at pH 7.0 with cellulosic filter paper for 5 days incubation and its maximum activity was noted at 48 hours. According to the study findings, Pseudomonas sp. produces extracellular cellulase enzyme in large quantities, which can help with the breakdown of cellulosic contaminants in the environment.