Isolation of Bacteria with Potential of Producing Extracellular Enzymes (Amylase, Cellulase and Protease) from Soil Samples

Introduction: Amylase, cellulase and protease are known for hydrolyzing starch, cellulose and protein respectively and these enzymes can be produced by microorganisms. A single bacterium with potential of producing amylase, cellulase and protease will be an organism of high industrial value.

Aims: This work aimed at isolating bacteria that will be able to produce three extracellular enzymes (amylase, cellulase and protease).

Methodology: Soil samples were collected from eight different locations within Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo Town, Nigeria. Bacteria were isolated from these soil samples and were identified using morphological and biochemical characteristics. Isolated bacteria were screened for their ability to produce amylase, cellulase and protease on plate and enzymes’ relative activities on plate were determined.

Results: Forty two bacteria were isolated from soil samples and identified to belong to the Genera Bacillus (30), Enterobacter (6), Klebsiella (3) and Staphylococcus (3). Eight (19%), Eleven (26%) and Nineteen (45%) out of 42 isolated bacteria were able to produce amylase, cellulase and protease on plate with relative activities ranging from 1.25 – 2.88, 1.39 – 4.50 and 1.13 – 5.17 respectively. All the eight amylolytic isolates (Bacillus species (5) and Enterobacter species (3)) were able to produce the three enzymes (amylase, cellulase and protease).

Conclusion: Eight bacteria with ability to produce three enzymes (amylase, cellulase and protease) were isolated from soil samples and could be further employed in enzyme-producing industries.