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Appl Environ Microbiol. 1972 July; 24(1): 77-82
Copyright © 1972 American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Cellulolytic Activity of Thermomonospora curvata: Nutritional Requirements for Cellulase Production

^a Department of Microbiology, Weber State College, Ogden, Utah 84403

ABSTRACT

The use of a minimal medium for cellulase (C₁ and C_x) production by Thermomonospora curvata increased extracellular C₁ activity (measured by rate of cotton fiber hydrolysis) 11-fold compared with the previously used yeast extract medium. Ground cotton fibers supported the highest cellulase production when compared to other soluble and insoluble carbohydrate sources. Maximal cellulase production occurred at 45 C, slightly less at 55 C, and was insignificant at 65 C (the highest temperature at which cellulase activity appeared stable). At a temperature of 55 C, an optimal pH of 8.0, and a cotton fiber concentration of 8 mg/ml, shake cultures of T. curvata degraded about 75% of the cellulose during the 10-day period.

¹ Present address: Ruakura Agricultural Research Station, Hamilton, New Zealand.