Abstract

SCREENING OF LIPOLYTIC FUNGI FROM OILY PREMISES FOR BIOSURFACTANT PRODUCTION

*Lodha C. K., Sandeep Kumar and R. S. Awasthi

ABSTRACT

Lipolytic organisms can degrade lipids by producing lipases. Lipases are enzymes catalysing a variety of reactions such as hydrolysis and esterification of lipids. They have wide applications in a number of industrial sectors. A number microorganisms producing lipases have been reported but the number of bacteria outgrows the fungi. With this viewpoint a brief survey of lipolytic fungi and yeasts was carried out. Soil samples were collected from the premises of oil & soap producing industries and petrol pump. Bioemulsification activity of these isolated organisms was also tested. From amongst the twenty eight fungal & fifteen yeast cultures isolated, two yeasts and six fungal cultures were found efficient for lipolytic activity. Identification of these cultures on the basis of their characteristics was carried out. Our results showed that from the lipolytic fungal cultures screened the fungus Rhizopus nigricans showed maximum lipolytic as well as bioemulsification activity indicating highest biosurfactant production also.

Keywords: Lipolytic, fungi, yeasts, lipases, emulsification.