Production and optimization of chitinase by trichoderma harzianum for control of the phytopathogenic fungus M.phaseouna

Trichoderma haizianwn was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of healthy grotmdnut plants and screened (2009) for chitinase activity. In vitro production ofchitinase by T.haizianwn, a mycoparasite of phytopathogenic fungi, was examined tmder various culture conditions described by Molano et al 1911. Enzyme production was significantly influenced by the chitin concentration and nitrogen source incorporated into the mediwn. Maximwn chitinase activity was observed at 1% chitin and peptone as nitrogen source chitinase activity of T.haizianum was maximwn after fifth days of growth. Production of chitinase enzyme was enhanced by polysaccharides contained in the myceliwn of M. Phaseolina.