Qualitative analysis of catalase production by the gut bacteria of Labeo rohita

Madhuri Kumari Das* & Nayni Saxena
University Department of Zoology, Ranchi University, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
Received : 15th December, 2021 ; Revised : 16th January, 2022

Abstract– Enzyme producing bacteria has become popular among the researchers due to its remarkable participation in the field of textile, food and beverage. Apart from producing beneficial enzymes, bacteria are easy to handle. Persistent and costefficient production is possible as well as epigenetic modification can also be performed conveniently. Hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive chemical compound produced by nearly all organisms that live in the presence of oxygen. This chemical is a Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) produced during numerous metabolic processes of living cell and can perpetrate oxidative damage to cellular components. To cope up with its harmful effect catalase enzyme plays a crucial role. It converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen and, thus, protects the cells from oxidative damage. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to isolate the catalase producing bacteria from the gut of fish Labeo rohita. It is a freshwater herbivore fish commonly found in Indian freshwater ponds, rivers and streams. Bacteria was isolated on NA media and purified by streaking. The bacteria were identified as Gram-positive Bacillus species. Catalase producing ability of bacteria was identified in vitro by using the chemical hydrogen peroxide and a positive test result was observed. The optimum temperature for bacterial growth was also identified which was about 40^oC. In fabric industry, catalase is used for the removal of excess hydrogen peroxide from fabric. This enzyme is mostly used along with other enzymes in food processing industries. Catalase is extensively used for food preservation. It is also used for elimination of oxygen from wine before bottling. Contemplating the beneficial effects of catalase, the isolated bacteria from the gut of Labeo rohita can be used for mass production of this enzyme in a costefficient manner.

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