Biodegradation of obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon) wood by Gloeophyllum spp. for sugar production

The degradation of a tropical non-durable Nigerian wood, obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon), by brown rot fungi (Gloeophyllum sepiarium and Gloeophyllum sp.) for sugar production was studied. Reducing sugar levels during biodegradation reached maximum levels of 40 times 0-46 times 0 mg per g of wood. Whilst milling of wood enhanced sugar accumulation, delignification did not. Sugar levels increased with low rate agitations when compared to static conditions, while higher agitations caused reductions. A temperature of 30 degree C and pH 4-3 were essential for maximum sugar yield. Urea was the best nitrogen source among those tested. It is postulated that the Gloeophyllum sp isolates may be useful in co-culture fermentation of lignocellulosics.