Differential modification of the lignin and cellulose components in wheat straw by fungal colonists of ruminant dung: ecological implications
1980
Wicklow, D.T. | Detroy, R.W. | Adams, S.
Fungal isolates from collections of cattle dung representing different stages in decomposition were examined for their ability (biologically) to modify the lignin and cellulose components of unamended native wheat straw (WS). Growth rate of fungal isolates on dung-extract agar was not correlated with their ability to affect biomass loss of WS. Later-sporulating colonists promoted greater biomass losses (total dry weight and cellulose). A late-appearing unidentified basidiomycete was most effective in degrading lignin and rendering the cellulosic components of natural lignocelluloses more susceptible to hydrolysis by cellulase. Fungal degradation of differentially 14C-labeled natural lignocelluloses (LC) added to ground and pelletized WS was followed by monitoring 14CO2 evolution during a 48 day incubation. Three late-appearing species on dung were more efficient in producing 14CO2 from specifically cellulose-labeled lignocelluloses (LC*) than were 3 earlier-appearing species. The percentage of 14CO2 evolved from lignin-labeled lignocelluloses (L*C) was 6-fold greater with the late-appearing basidiomycete than with any of the 5 ascomycetes. Present findings help to explain patterns of fungal development in cattle feces and the importance of lignin-degrading, white rotting basidiomycetes in feces decomposition.
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