FERMENTATION OF CASSAVA PEELS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CELLULOLYTIC ENZYMES

Cassava peels were used as a substrate for the production of cellulolytic enzymes. Under solid substrate fermentation conditions and a Rhizopus sp., thermostable cellulolytic enzymes were produced. Optimal production temperature and pH were 45°C and 5.6 respectively. Kinetic studies of the enzymes showed that the cellulase C1 activity was optimal at pH 5.0 and 50°C, whereas that of cellulase Cx was optimal at pH 7.0 and 60°C. The enzymes degraded ca 44% of sorghum grains in 6 h, thus suggesting a possible use in saccharification processes. The results also showed the possibility of re‐cycling cassava peels as a cheap substrate for the enzyme industry. and accepted 6 June 1989 Copyright © 1990, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved