Termite gut bacteria produce potent enzymes for industrial applications
In this research, scientists explored bacteria in termites that can produce a useful enzyme called laccase. They found six bacterial strains that can make laccase, and identified them as types of Bacillus and Pseudomonas. These bacteria were able to produce the enzyme best at specific conditions like temperature and pH. The bacteria strain A5 was especially good at making laccase, with levels between 123 and 168 units per milliliter. The researchers also discovered that the substance guaiacol is a great way to measure how much laccase is being produced. Overall, termites have bacteria in their guts that can create laccase with good activity levels under certain conditions.