Abstract
Statistically based experimental design was employed for the optimization of fermentation conditions for maximum production of enzyme tannase from Aspergillus niger. Central composite rotatable design (CCRD) falling under response surface methodology (RSM) was used. Based on the results of 'one-at-a-time' approach in submerged fermentation, the most influencing factors for tannase production from A. niger were concentrations of tannic acid and sodium nitrate, agitation rate and incubation period. Hence, to achieve the maximum yield of tannase, interaction of these factors was studied at optimum production pH of 5.0 by RSM. The optimum values of parameters obtained through RSM were 5% tannic acid, 0.8% sodium nitrate, 5.0 pH, 5 × 10(7) spores/50mL inoculum density, 150 rpm agitation and incubation period of 48 h which resulted in production of 19.7 UmL(-1) of the enzyme. This activity was almost double as compared to the amount obtained by 'one-at-a-time' approach (9.8 UmL(-1)).