We isolated three cellulose degrading bacteria based on clear zone using Congo red stain on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) agar plates. Three bacterial isolates named as HB2, HS5 and HS9 which were subsequently characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, morphological and biochemical tests. Based on 16S rRNA analysis, the bacterial isolates were identified as Bacillus cerus, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus altitudinis. For maximum cellulose enzyme production, different growth parameters were optimized. HB2 showed maximum optical density for growth at 40 ºC for 72h while HS5 and HS9 at 40ºC for 48 h. Maximum optical density for growth was also noted at pH 7 for 48 h for all three isolates. Optical density was high for all three isolates using meat extract as a nitrogen source for 48 h. The pH profile of all three strains was quite similar but the maximum enzyme activity was observed at pH 7. Maximum cellulose production was noted by all three bacterial isolates using lactose as a carbon rather than nitrogen and peptone. Further studies are needed in region for identification of new isolates having maximum cellulolytic activity. Above finding indicates that this enzyme can be potentially used in various industrial applications.

This study is aimed at assessing the influence of community resilience to flood risk and coping strategies in Bayelsa State, Southern Nigeria. 1505 copies of administrative questionnaires were distributed to obtain information concerning the perception of flood vulnerability and resilience in carefully chosen communities applying stratified and random sampling techniques. However, 1265 questionnaires were repossessed for further analysis and the results indicated that incident of flooding in Bayelsa is seemly a recurring problem occurring yearly with loss of numerous lives and properties.