Screening of Cellulolytic Microorganism from Dumping Sites

The study screens the Cellulolytic Microorganism from Dumping Sites using Imo State dumping site as a case study. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out to identify the Microorganism Isolated from Dumping Sites, isolate the Cellulolytic bacteria from Waste Dumping Sites and screen and characterize cellulolytic bacterial isolates. Twenty five biodegradable waste samples were collected from different waste dumping sites of Owerri district from five locations viz., Nekede, Obinze, Naze, Irere, and Ihiagwa. The cellulolytic bacteria were isolated on Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose Agar Medium (CMC) by following serial dilution pour plate method. The cellulolytic bacterial isolates were screened qualitatively as well as quantitatively at three different temperatures (10, 15 & 20oC) and three different pHs (5, 7 and 9). Out of twenty, CBW3 isolate from Wadura showed highest solubilization zone (4 mm) with solubilization efficiency (285.7%) and cellulase activity (2.917 U/ml) followed by CBB3 from Baramulla town (3.4 mm) with solubilization efficiency (261.5%) and cellulase activity (2.566 U/ml). All the 20 cellulolytic bacterial isolates were morphologically, biochemically characterized. Although these microbes showed the cellulose activity under variable pH and temperature combinations but pH 7 and 20 ^oC temperature was the most ideal standardized condition for the better performance by the microbes under investigation. Microorganisms are useful in producing foods, treating waste water, creating biofuels and a wide range of chemicals and enzymes. They are invaluable in research as model organisms. They have been weaponries and sometimes used in warfare and bioterrorism. They are vital to agriculture through their roles in maintaining soil fertility and in decomposing organic matter.