Response surface optimization of xylanase diminutive cellulase by a thermo-alkaline tolerant Trichoderma harzanium FC50 under solid state cultivation on Delonix regia pods

Abstract

Xylanase from thermotolerant and alkaline-tolerant fungi plays a vital role in reducing chemical pollution in the bio-pulping process. This study explores the potential of Delonix regia pods for Response Surface Optimization, for the production of xylanase diminutive cellulase. Fungi isolate from hot compost was screened on xylan-agar plate. Enzyme production at 84.10 U/g (xylanase) and 11.17 U/g (cellulase), was significant with Delonix regia pods with Trichoderma harzanium FC50. Using Plackett-Burman design and Central Composite Design, xylanase production was recorded at an optimum temperature of 37°C, pH of 6.0, and 75% moisture content after 120 h of fermentation. The fungus also produced high xylanase over a broad pH range (6–9) and a temperature range (37–49°C). Xylanase increased by 42.8-fold and 1.43-fold with xylan and Delonix regia pods as substrates, respectively. The model was beneficial for predicting optimumal xylanase production and optimizing experimental growth conditions with Delonix regia pods as substrate.