RESUMO
Biological agents are important alternative to chemical agents in pulping and bleaching process of paper industry. Irpex lacteus, a white rot fungus with a great biotechnological potential, is currently considered the most important lignocellulose degrading organism because of its potential to degrade lignin and bio-remediate other lignin related pollutants. Experimental evidences of mixed cultures/co-cultures of fungal isolates suggest improved ligninolytic activity compared to monocultures. Here, we explored potential compatible fungal co-partner for Irpex lacteus to produce enhanced ligninolytic enzymes. Results of paired interaction test showed that among the eleven fungal isolates evaluated, I. lacteus was compatible with three species of Pleurotus, Phellinus and Daedaleopsis confragosa. The results suggest the above three fungal isolates to be potential fungal partner for I. lacteus in co-culturing for efficient lignin degradation and biobleaching in pulp and paper industries.