Glycoside hydrolase production by an anaerobic rumen fungus Caecomyces communis

The ruminal fungus Caecomyces communis was grown anaerobically either in a discontinuous cultivation system or in a fermenter with daily withdrawal and addition of fresh medium. Lowe and Orpin media were tested. The best culture conditions for glycoside hydrolase production were obtained in Lowe medium with daily fresh medium addition, whereas the Orpin medium with ruminal fluid was favourable to fungal growth and to the enzyme export process. Among glycoside hydrolases assessed in both culture fluid and cellular homogenate, beta-D-fucosidase activity was preponderant. Most studied enzymes were mainly associated with cells (from 50% to 99%). Glycoside hydrolase activities were constitutive, but their level was regulated by a carbon source. beta-D-fucosidase and beta-D-xylosidase activity production was activated by the association of glucose plus cellobiose, whereas beta-D-glucosidase activity production was stimulated by cellobiose alone. Enzyme release could be favoured by glucose alone or by Ray grass hay added to glucose plus cellobiose.