Production and Estimation of Keratinase by Immobilized and Free Bacillus licheniformis (St. 24)

Abstract Alginate immobilized Bacillus licheniformis (St. 24) were isolated from chicken feather wastes recorded higher keratinase production than free bacterial suspension. 2-3% alginate concentration, medium pellet size, and in addition of keratin powder as adjuvant were optimum for keratinase production by the immobilized bacteria. Encapsulated B. licheniformis st. 24 was successfully produced keratinase for three repeated batch fermentation cycles each 24 hour incubation period. Immobilization of the whole cells proved to be useful for continuous production of keratinase and feather degradation