RAPD analysis of genetic diversity and qualitative assessment of hydrolytic activities in a collection of Bacillus sp. isolate

Abstract

Genetic diversity and production of hydrolytic enzymes of 205 Bacillus isolates from different geographical and ecological niches in Serbia were studied. Combining RAPD analysis and 16S DNA sequencing, we determined 13 different groups of RAPD profiles within four (five) species: B. subtilis, B. cereus/B. thuringiensis, B. pumilus, and B. fir- mus. Screening for production of hydrolytic enzymes showed that there was no correlation of enzyme production with species. Most of the isolates from all habitats produced amylase, protease, lipase, mannanase, and xylanase to some extent at 25°C and 37°C. The number of isolates that retained enzyme production ability at 55°C is considerably lower and they predominantly came from manure.