Intervention and Optimization of Urea (CH4N2O) for Enhancement of Lignocellulolytic Enzyme Production in Modified Potato Dextrose Media

The management of agricultural waste material or lignocellulosic biomass is a big task for scientists as well as farmers. There are many options for managing agricultural waste through ex-situ and in-situ technology, but the rate of degradation of crop residues is very slow during either of the processes. Utilization of the lignocellulolytic fungi can help to enhance the rate of degradation of crop residues. This study investigates the optimization of urea concentration for lignocellulolytic enzyme production using modified Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB) media. The four lignocellulolytic fungal strains (Aspergillus niger GKH2, Aspergillus flavus GHR4, Aspergillus terreus GD2, and Trichoderma harzianum JLB) were used for the optimization of varying urea concentrations to enhance enzyme production. The effect of different concentrations of urea on various enzyme productions was checked. Results revealed that supplementation of media with 2% urea concentration was found to be best for the enzyme production by all fungi. The study was conducted in view of the wide C: N ratio of rice straw, which restricts fungal growth due to the immobilization of nitrogen source. When nitrogen source is applied appropriately in the form of urea, it can balance the C: N ratio, encourage fungal growth, and facilitate ex-situ and in-situ degradation of paddy straw. The results demonstrate that 2% urea concentration significantly enhances enzyme activity, suggesting a cost-effective strategy for boosting fungal lignocellulose-degrading capabilities, which could contribute to sustainable agricultural residue management and soil health.