Neocallimastix

Neocallimastix is a genus of anaerobic fungi that occur in the rumen of herbivorous animals, where they play a key role in breaking down fibrous plant material. Species such as Neocallimastix patriciarum and N. frontalis produce potent fibre-degrading enzymes and are used in the production of enzymes, including xylan-degrading enzymes and cellulases, for industrial applications. These enzyme preparations find use in animal feed to improve fibre digestibility, in baking, and in emerging biorefinery processes. Research interest continues because their hydrogenosome-based metabolism and powerful cellulolytic systems offer routes to more efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass.