Optimization of cellulase yield from Areca husk and Areca sheath using Pseudomonas fluorescens

Cultivation of areca palm results in two major agricultural wastes which are Areca husk and Areca sheath. Since they are slow in degradation, their disposal is a problem. Areca husk and sheath are major sources of cellulose. Hence they can be used in the production of cellulase using Fungi or bacteria. In this study, Pseudomonas fluorescens is used to produce cellulase from Areca husk and sheath. Characterization of cellulose degrading bacteria is done by carrying out Gram Staining and IMViC test. The isolated strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens was used for solid state fermentation using areca husk and sheath as sole carbon source. Optimum period of incubation for the process was found out to be 3 days and 36°C was the optimum temperature. pH 6 was the optimum pH of the medium.