Production of cellulase and β-glucosidase activity during growth of the actinomycete Micromonospora chalcae on cellulose-containing media

The actinomycete, Micromonospora chalcae produced an extracellular cellulase system when grown on cellulose-containing media. Cellulase activity reached a maximum after 8 days and the beta-glucosidase activity was maximal within 16 to 18 days. beta-Glucosidase activity was isolated and had a Km of 0.25mM for the substrate p-nitrophenyl-beta-D-glucoside. The activity was optimal at pH 7.25 and 52 degrees C