African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 3 (10), pp. 519-522, October 2004           
ISSN 1684–5315 © 2004 Academic Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Effect of C:N ratio on alpha amylase production by Bacillus licheniformis SPT 27

P. V. Dharani Aiyer

S.P.T. Arts and Science College, Gujarat University, Godhra 389001 Gujarat, India. Phone: (02672) 245558, 250889. E-mail: prasannaaiyer2002@yahoo.com.

Accepted 14 April, 2004.

Bacillus licheniformis SPT 27 is an isolate which produces extra cellular alpha (µ-) amylase exhibiting activity at a wide pH range and was relatively stable. The B. lichenformis isolate, however, produces low yields of the amylase. Our results show that the amylase production is higher in the presence of starch, with Amarantus peniculatus starch producing the highest amount of amylase. Amongst sugars, fructose supported maximum amylase production. Of the nitrogen sources tested, peptone and ammonium hydrogen phosphate where the best organic and inorganic sources respectively. The C:N ratio found to be the optimum was 1:1.

Key words: Amarantus manipulates, alpha (µ-) amylase, Bacillus licheniformis SPT 27, C:N ratio.