Enhanced glucoamylase production in semi-continuous solid state cultivation of Aspergillus niger NRRL 3122

Semi-continuous process was used as a alternative type of inoculum during solid state cultivation for glucoamylase production by Aspergillus niger. Two different kinds of inoculum were evaluated: Spores suspended in sterile water and the use of dry fermented bran. Enzyme activity results were statistically evaluated and no significant difference within 95% confidence level was observed for the types of inoculum, allowing the use of dry fermented bran as a good alternative for inoculation. The semi-continuous cultivation leads to a minimum of 30% higher overall yield in comparison with the batch process.