[Course and modification of Hypomyces ochraceus m 359 autolysis]

Growth and natural autolysis of the ascomycete Hypomyces ochraceus were investigated in shake cultures by measuring dry weight, pH value, and uptake of carbohydrate. The alkaline autolysis resulted in maximum loss of 53% of dry weight during an incubation period of 35 days. Early autolysis was induced by limitation of oxygen, increasing temperature, addition of peracetic acid, and sodiumacide. Autolysis is discussed to be derived from deficiency of energy.