2024 Vol. 30 No.2 PP 219-224
https://doi.org/10.33451/florafauna.v30i2pp219-224
Degradation of Biopolymers of Khair (Acacia catechu) plant litter of Datia Forest through Fungi
Brijesh Kumar Jatav, *Tirthesh Kumar Sharma and Sippy Dassani
Department of Botany and Industrial Microbiology,
Bipin Bihari College,
JHANSI-284001 (U.P.) INDIA
*Corresponding Author
E-mail: tirtheshk@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Biopolymers like Cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin are major source of energy and nutrients for microbial communities
in forest ecosystem. Plant biomass is degraded by variety of microorganisms living in the soil. Fungi are major decomposers and
recyclers of organic matter by secreting various enzymes. The objective of the study was to determine cellulose, hemicellulose
and lignin content of Acacia catechu leaf litter during different stages of its decomposition. Leaf litter was collected and litter bag
technique was applied for its decomposition. Analysis of biopolymer degradation done after removing litter bags from pits at 15,
30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 150, and 180 days of incubation. No change observed in cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin content in
early stages of decomposition. Gradual reduction in litter biomass was observed from 45 to 180 days of decomposition. In early
stages of decomposition, amount of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin was remarkably high but as the decomposition progressed,
these biopolymers were degraded at very faster rate.Maximum decomposition of biopolymers was observed on 180 days.
During the process of decomposition fungi produce various enzymes that work cooperatively to hydrolyse these macromolecules