ENZYMATIC ACTIVITY OF THREE STRAINS FROM TWO Schizophyllum SPECIES GROWN ON DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES

Species of the genus Schizophyllum have been used in morphogenesis research and in the production of polysaccharides and enzymes. In this study, the growth and enzymatic activity (laccases, amylases, cellulases, pectinases, and xylanases) of two strains of Schizophyllum commune and one strain of Schizophyllum radiatum were evaluated on different agro-industrial substrates (cedar sawdust, jacaranda sawdust, pine sawdust, peanut shell, coconut fiber, corn stubble, and corn cobs). Growth rate, mycelial characteristics, and enzymatic activity were assessed in Petri dishes. All strains grew on the seven substrates, with higher mycelial density on peanut shells, corn stubble, and corn cobs. The highest enzymatic activity was observed on corn stubble and peanut shell, followed by jacaranda sawdust for amylase, pectinase, and xylanase. Schizophyllum radiatum showed greater mycelial extension but lower enzymatic activity than S. commune strains. Substrates with lower lignin content (peanut shells, corn stubble, and corn cobs) enhanced growth and enzymatic activity in all strains, indicating that these agro-industrial residues are suitable substrates for obtaining enzyme cocktails from Schizophyllum species.