MULTIPLE FORMS OF BETA-MANNANASE FROM BACILLUS SP KK01

Bacillus sp. KK01, which was isolated from soil, produced beta-mannana se about 2 U ml(-1) in culture medium. By DEAE-ion exchange column chr omatography, four enzyme components F1, F2, F3, and F4 were separated. All components showed maximum activity at pH 7.1. F1 showed maximum a ctivity at 60 degrees C, which was 5-10 degrees C higher than those of the rest. The Sour components Fl, F2, F3, and F4 hydrolyzed copra man nan to the extent of 23-31%; yielded mannobiose, mannotriose, and mann otetraose as hydrolysis products; and also hydrolyzed locust bean gum to the extent of 19-22%, giving similar products.