Prospecting the rumen protozoa for novel enzymes using metagenomic techniques

Protozoa, along with fungi, represent the rumen eukaryotome andaccount for up to 50% of microbial biomass[1]. Nonetheless, they are oftenoverlooked. It is inferred that rumen protozoa play a role in lipid, proteinand fibre metabolism, however, few of these enzymes have beenidentified and characterised[2]. Enzymes previously isolated from therumen microbiome have shown great potential for application in industry(biodiesel manufacture, the food industry, washing detergents etc.)suggesting a wealth of untapped, novel activity in the rumen eukaryotes