Solid state fermentation of lignocellulosic waste for cellulase and beta-glucosidase production by cocultivation of Aspergillus ellipticus and Aspergillus fumigatus

Lignocellulosic wastes available in abundance can be excellent substrates for the production of cellulase and beta-glucosidase enzymes by solid state fermentation (SSF). A cellulase system, showing enhanced hydrolytic potential and beta-glucosidase under SSF, was obtained by cocultivation of Aspergillus ellipticus and Aspergillus fumigatus. Different types of substrates and various pretreatments were used to improve hydrolytic process. Among the various substrates examined, sugarcane bagasse gave the highest activity and 2% calcium hydroxide treatment was found to be the most favorable treatment for the enzyme production. The maximum enzyme production was obtained on the eighth day of the fermentation process.