Production of single cell protein through fermentation of a perennial grass grown on saline lands with Cellulomonas biazotea

Microbial protein from alkali-treated Leptochloa fusca (kaller grass) was produced by growing Cellulomonas biazoteain shake flasks and in an aerated 6-l fermentor. Single cell protein, produced in the fermentor contained 56.10 +/- 4.64, 60.00 +/- 5.04, 11.50 +/- 1.34, 12.95 +/- 1.24, 3.50 +/- 0.24 and 1.00 +/- 0.44 true protein, crude protein, crude fibre, ash, cellulose and RNA content respectively. Maximum values compared favourably with published data. The biomass contained all desired amino acids with isoleucine as limiting acid. The dried biomass showed a gross metabolizable energy value of 3500 kcal kg(-1) and indicated that it might serve as energy as well as a protein source particularly when fed to poultry.