An experiment was conducted for isolation of cellulolytic microorganisms from diverse environments. Samplings were done from 8 locations representing 27 samples viz. forest ecosystem, composting units, incorporation experiments and agricultural fields. A total of 653 microorganisms including bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi were isolated using serial dilution plate assay. All the cultures were initially screened for cellulolytic potential using carboxy methyl cellulose medium on the basis of zone of hydrolysis obtained. Among these cultures, 44 bacteria, 2 actinomycetes and 2 fungi were found to be efficient cellulose degraders. | Influence of sampling sites on the occurrence and distribution of cellulose degrading microbial communities
