Screening of fungi efficient in feather degradation and keratinase production

Two hundred thirty four fungal strains were isolated by baiting method, for their feather degradation and keratinase producing ability. Fungi were tested on solid milk agar plates and in submerged culture. Maximum clearing zone was made by Chrysosporium indicum (7mm) on solid agar plates. The highest keratinase production was found in case of Acremonium strictum (74.40Unit/mL & 124.72 Unit/ml in 8 & 12 day incubation respectively, while Chrysosporium indicum 110.10U/mL and Chrysosporium tropicum 78.64U/mL was found next to it. Keyword: Keratinase, Keratinophilic fungi _____________________________________________________________________________________________