Lipase Activities of Thermophilic Fungi from Mouldy Groundnuts in Nigeria

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Abstract
The production of extracellular lipases by thermophilic fungi associated with moldy Nigerian groundnuts and the conditions influencing the activities of the enzymes were determined. Lipase activity was detected in the culture filtrates of all the fungi within 48 h of incubation at 45.degree. C. The presence of lipids in the growth medium enhanced the production of extracellular lipases by these fungi. Lack of lipids in the growth medium did not prevent lipase synthesis. The lipases of the fungi used in this study were able to hydrolyze both natural and synthetic glycerides to free fatty acids. They were particularly active between a pH range of 5.5-6.0 and a temperature range of 45.degree.-50.degree. C. The involvement of these fungi in the spoilage of Nigerian groundnuts during storage is suggested.

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