Changes in Some Soil Chemical Properties of Ultisol Applied by Mulch from Empty Fruit Bunches in an Oil Palm Plantation

Abstract

Seven actinomycetes isolated from Waigeo’s soil rhizospere have been characterized in growth, cellulase activities and pH. These actinomycetes were chosen based on their capabilities in cellulose degradation which were recognized by previous study. Those isolates are belonging to Streptomyces and Actinoplanes genera based on morphological and molecular analyses. The growths of actinomycetes were investigated based on spectrophotometric approach and cellulase activities were conducted based on reduction sugar. Cellulase activities, cell growth, and pH had significant correlation based on statistical analysis. The highest enzyme activities was acquired from Streptomyces bobili LIPIMC-A-283 (0,519 µmol mL -1 minute -1 ) at 96 h of incubation. This study provided important basic information on potential cellulolitic alternative from actinomycetes group, as consideration on choosing low-cost technique using microbial agent in cellulose treatment.