Isolation and characterization of strictly anaerobic cellulolytic rumen bacterial species from Sahiwal cattle

Abstract

Objective: To isolate, and characterize cellulolytic rumen bacteria from the rumen of Sahiwal cattle utilizing rumen bacterial inoculum to increase the nutritional value of rice bran used as broiler feed. Materials and Methods: The ruminal liquid was kept at an optimal pH of 6.9, and a redox potential of less than -300mV while being incubated anaerobically at 39℃ in a medium containing Rumen Fluid Glucose Cellobiose Agar. By using the Hungate technique, the isolates were detected on the basis of their morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular testing. Results: The findings revealed that the isolated Ruminococcus albus, and Ruminococcus flavifaciens were obligate anaerobic, generally Gram-positive, non-motile cocci or rod, single or pair, occasionally short chain, producing yellow pigment when grown on cellulose, and presence of clear zone around the colonies. Both isolates fermented sugars such cellobiose, glucose, and lactose as well as decomposed xylan. The results also showed that the isolates were recognized as Ruminococcus spp., a cellulolytic rumen bacterium, were catalase negative, indole negative, and gelatin liquefaction positive. Conclusion: Isolation and characterization of Ruminococcus spp. may be helpful for Bangladesh in reducing the cost of producing poultry feed, and circumventing restrictions on rice bran use. We can also develop more efficient and long-lasting plans to enhance poultry performance, and feed efficiency as well as increase the nutritional value of rice bran used as broiler feed through understanding how various Ruminococcus spp. function in this process.