Free and cell-bound cellulase activity of Cellulomonas flavigena.

Free beta-1, 4-glucanase activity was measured in the supernatant of cultures of Cellulomonas flavigena grown on carboxymethylcellulose or filter paper as the main carbon source. Filtration through a series of filter papers resulted in quantitative removal of the enzyme from the supernatant. The glucanase was found to be tightly bound to the paper.

Survival of microorganisms after drying and storage.

Bacteria, yeasts and fungi suspended in a dextran solution were added to ampoules containing strips of filter paper which were dried without vacuum conditions. The ampoules were sealed and stored in the dark at room temperature. Viability counts were made of the original suspension immediately after drying and after storage periods of 3-48 months.

Rate of drying and the survival of microorganisms.

The survival rate of cells of the genera Arthrobacter, Pseudomonas, Mycobacterium, Escherichia, Micrococcus and Saccharomyces when counted immediately after fast or slow drying (20 minutes and 24 hours, respectively) was rather similar. However, after prolonged periods of dry storage, the number of viable cells after slow drying was much higher as compared with the rapidly dried cells. Investigations with Escherichia coli demonstrated this phenomenon only when more than about 8 mg of water per 10(8) cells was available on a filter paper disc.

Identification and flagellation of coryneform bacteria from poultry litter.

Thirth coryneform isolates from poultry litter were identified and checked for motility and flagellation. Twenty-seven formed a yellow pigment and 3 were orange. Twenty-three yellow strains were found to be Arthrobacter citreus, although starch was hydrolyzed by these strains.