Cellulase production by six Trichoderma spp. fermented on medicinal plant processings

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Enzymology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Cellulase enzymes are crucial for breaking down plant biomass.
• Medicinal and aromatic plant waste, along with garden waste, are underutilized resources.
• Trichoderma species are known for their ability to produce various enzymes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the cellulase production capabilities of six Trichoderma species.
• To evaluate the efficacy of delignified agro-industrial waste as substrates for enzyme production.
• To identify the most efficient Trichoderma species and substrate for cellulase and beta-glucosidase production.

Main Methods:

• Six species of Trichoderma were cultured on delignified citronella distillation waste, Artemisia annua marc, garden waste (Cynodon dactylon), and pure cellulose.
• Cellulase and beta-glucosidase activities were quantified.
• pH changes during fermentation were monitored.

Main Results:

• Trichoderma citrinoviride demonstrated the highest cellulase and beta-glucosidase production across multiple substrates.
• Significant enzyme production was observed on Artemisia annua marc and garden waste.
• Trichoderma virens showed minimal enzyme production and an incomplete cellulase complex, except on Artemisia annua marc.
• pH reduction during fermentation was substrate and species-dependent, with Artemisia annua marc showing no pH alteration.

Conclusions:

• Trichoderma citrinoviride is a highly efficient producer of cellulases and beta-glucosidases from lignocellulosic biomass.
• Delignified agro-industrial wastes, particularly Artemisia annua marc and garden waste, are suitable substrates for enzyme production.
• Substrate composition influences enzyme production and fermentation kinetics in Trichoderma species.