Thermostable Beta-Galactosidase from Fungi

Abstract
Strains (45) of molds were screened for .beta.-galactosidase activity. Strains exhibiting enzyme activity were evaluated for cell yield and enzyme units available per l of medium per g cell dry weight and per mg protein in their cell free extracts. Cultures exhibiting high activity were Alternaria parascicola, A. palmi, Aspergillus fumigatus, Macrophomina phaseoli; and Syncephalastrum sp. .beta.-galactosidase of Alternaria palmi was the most heat stable, as it did not lose activity at 65.degree. C for 45 min.