SCREENING AND IDENTIFICATION OF PECTINOLYTIC BACTERIAL ISOLATES FROM FRUIT AND VEGETABLE WASTE DUMP SOIL

Abstract

Naturally occurring polysaccharide pectin, is very important in both scientific and commercial world due to its biodegradability. A large group of pectinase enzymes causing breakdown of pectin polysaccharides of plants and fruit are used in industrial sector to increase the yield and clarity of fruit juices. In this study bacterial strains were isolated using serial dilutions of 10-7 of rotten oranges. Organisms were isolate and identified based on staining and biochemical tests. The pectinolytic activity was determined by using pectin containing minimal essential medium. The methodology applied was KB agar well diffusion method at the temperature is 35 ± 200C. Based on Gram staining, and biochemical tests, bacterial strains were isolated and identified strains showed different pectinolytic zones depending on the concentration of inoculum and the largest pectinolytic zones of 3cm was observed by PB4. These strains were efficient and have potential to be used commercially to increase the clarity and quality of fruit juices.