Exploration and Utilization of Microorganisms as Activators of Plant Residue Decomposition from the Hambalang Quarry Area

Plant parts, such as branches, twigs, or leaves that come from dead plant remains can be a source of organic carbon. The degradation process is naturally influenced by environmental conditions and the role of microfauna and decomposing microorganisms. Plant parts consisting of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin can be decomposed by enzymes produced by microorganisms. A number of bacteria and fungi are known to produce cellulase, hemicellulose, and lignase (peroxidase and laccase) enzymes. The revegetation area overgrown with trees in the Hambalang quarry environment has the potential to store organic carbon from dead plant waste containing cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. From the soil and dead plants, bacteria and fungi can be isolated that act as producers of decomposing enzymes. The ability of microorganisms to produce these decomposing enzymes is measured qualitatively and quantitatively. Potential enzyme-producing microorganisms are collected into a consortium of microorganisms as a formula for activators for making compost from dead plants from the quarry revegetation area.