Isolation and Characterization of Cellulose Degrading Bacteria of Termite Gut from North Eastern Region of India

Abstract

A study was conducted to screen and isolate cellulase producing bacteria of termite gut from North east region of India. A total of 27 culturable bacterial isolates were screened for cellulase production. Out of the 27 bacterial isolates 11 showed zone of clearance on CMC agar media on staining with 1% Congo red, suggesting potential cellulose degrading activity. The maximum hydrolysis capacities (HC value) on CMC agar plate was found within the range of 3.6 to 40mm. The morphological characterization and gram staining of the positive isolates indicated that 3 isolates were positively stained rods and others were negative cocci. All the cellulase positive isolates were also tested for carbohydrate utilization with maltose, dextrose and fructose, to which all the 11 isolates responded positively. Further, based on the amplification and sequencing of the 16S rRNA genetic region, isolates were identified as member of the genus Bacillus, Paenibacillus and Staphylococcus. The degrading potential of these bacteria were assessed by developing bacterial consortium and efficient degradation was reported after seven days of incubation with different cellulose source like rice, cotton and rice husk.