Identification of Novel Cellulolytic Bacterial Strains from Termite Guts for Efficient Biomass Conversion
Keywords:
Biomass, Termites, Cellulolytic bacteria, Odontotermes, lignocelluloseAbstract
Termites as eusocial insects, play a vital role in the terrestrial ecosystem by recycling lignocellulosic biomass comprising cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Their ability to efficiently degrade plant material is facilitated by symbiotic microorganisms in their gut, particularly cellulolytic bacteria, which convert cellulose into metabolizable sugars such as glucose. This study focuses on isolating and identifying cellulose-degrading bacteria from the gut of termites belonging to the genus Odontotermes, which are major contributors to litter decomposition. The research involved isolating bacterial strains from termite gut samples and their characterization through standard morphological, physiological, and biochemical tests. The cellulolytic potential of the isolates was evaluated using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) agar plates, and the presence of cellulolytic enzyme activity was further confirmed using molecular techniques. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of termite gut microbiota and their role in lignocellulose degradation, with potential applications in biofuel production, waste management, and industrial enzyme development.
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