Isolation and characterization of novel lignite attacking fungi from a former opencast mining

摘要

48 Fungal strains (micromycetes and basidiomycetcs) were isolated from the former opencast mining area near Bitterfeld (Sachsen/Anhalt, Germany). The isolated strains were examined for their ability to produce radical generating enzymes, to depolymerize coal derived humic acids and to solubilize solid lignite particles. Micromycetes excreted radical-generating enzymes (polyphenoloxidases, peroxidases) and solubilized pretreated lignite particles. The depolymerization of coal humic substances, however, were limited to wood- and litter-decaying basidiomycetes. During the depolymerization process the decisive enzymes of lignin degradation were detectable: manganese peroxidase and laccase. We found that manganese peroxidase is highly stable in soil and depolymerizes soil components by forming fulvic acid-like compounds. The results indicate the significance of filamentous fungi for the remediation of former opencast mining areas.