[Methodological aspects of assessing chitin utilization by soil microorganisms].

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Soil Science

Context:

• Chitin decomposition is a crucial biogeochemical process.
• Estimating microbial chitinolytic activity is vital for understanding soil ecosystems.
• Previous methods for assessing chitin decomposition rates were limited.

Purpose:

• To propose a computational method for estimating the specific activity of chitin decomposition by microorganisms.
• To compare the chitinolytic activity of dominant microorganisms in chernozem and desert-steppe soils.

Summary:

• Spectrophotometric and gas chromatographic methods were employed to measure chitinase production, biomass accumulation, and CO2 emission in pure microbial cultures.
• Prokaryotes, especially actinomycetes (e.g., Streptomyces albolongus, S. roseolilacinus), demonstrated significantly higher specific chitinolytic activity and respiration rates compared to the fungus Trichoderma viride.
• Despite lower biomass, prokaryotes showed an order of magnitude greater specific activity in chitin decomposition.

Impact:

• Provides a novel computational approach for quantifying microbial chitin decomposition.
• Identifies prokaryotes, particularly actinomycetes, as key players in chitin degradation in specific soil types.
• Enhances understanding of microbial roles in nutrient cycling and soil health.