Isolation of Endopyhtic and Xylanolytic Bacillus pumilus Strains from Zea mays

In this study, two endophytic xylanolytic bacteria, named M1 and M2, were isolated from surface sterilized Zea mays stem and leaf, respectively. Isolates were identified as Bacillus pumilus. Microorganisims showed different morphology on agar plates. Xylanase production level and profile varied between isolates, as well. Maximum xylanase production level of 188.0 +/- 20.0 and 5.6 +/- 1.1 U/ml were achieved by Bacillus pumilus M1 and Bacillus pumilus M2 in a liquid medium containing 3% corn cobs as a sole carbon source and inducer, respectively. Isolates produced very low level of cellulase in crude enzyme extract. B. pumilus M1 xylanase was partially characterized. Enzyme had a maximum activity at pH 8.0 and 65 degrees C, seemed proper for pulp and paper industry, and required further characterization. In conclusion, this study indicated that inside part of Zea mays is a novel and good source for isolating xylanase producers. After detailed characterization, such enzymes could be used in various applications in paper and pulp, textile, food and feed industries.