Production of amylase by soil fungi and partial biochemical characterization of amylase of a selected strain (Aspergillus fumigatus Fresenius)

Filamentous fungi from soil were screened for their ability to produce amylases in semisolid and liquid media with wheat bran. A selected strain identified as Aspergillus fumigatus Fresenius showed high enzymatic activity for α-amylase and glucoamylase. The maximal yield of these amylases was obtained when lignocellulosic materials were the carbon sources. The optimal pH and temperature were 6.0 and 50 °C, respectively, for both enzymes. α-Amylase activity was more thermostable than glucoamylase activity.