Conditions for selective degradation of lignin by the fungus Ganoderma australis

Abstract

The white-rot fungus Ganoderma australis selectively degrades lignin in the ecosystem “palo podrido”. Using conditions that simulate those of “palo podrido” in the laboratory, it was found that low nitrogen content and low O2 tension stimulate the productio of manganese peroxidase and lignin degradation, and depress cellulose degradation and cellulase production. The inverse is found at high nitrogen concentration and high O2 tension. This agrees with previous results indicating that low O2 tension and low nitrogen stimulate selective lignin degradation by this fungus.