Chapter 4:Results

The bacterial isolate NIT-36 was found to produce the highest nitrilase activity at 37°C. The strain was streaked on nutrient agar and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours (Figure 4.1) to obtain pure culture. These organisms inhabit in soil and water environments and are considered among important industrial organisms. Studies have shown Rhodococcus grow in mesophilic conditions. Strains of Rhodococcus are responsible for biodesulfurization of fossil fuels, degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and utilization of a wide variety of other organic compounds as energy sources (Lichtinger et al., 2000).