This paper describes the preparation and characterization of alginate beads coated with gelatin and containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus. Capsules were obtained by extrusion method using CaCl₂ as cross linker. An experimental design was performed using alginate and gelatin concentrations as the variables investigated, while the response variable was the concentration of viable cells. Beads were characterized in terms of size, morphology, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), moisture content, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR), thermal behavior and cell viability during storage. The results showed that the highest concentration of viable cells (4.2 x 10⁹ CFU/g) was obtained for 1 % w/v of alginate and 0.1 % w/v of gelatin. Capsules were predominantly spherical with a rough surface, a narrow size distribution ranging from 1.53 to 1.90 mm and a moisture content of 97.70 ± 0.03 %. Furthermore, FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis indicated an interaction between alginate-gelatin. Cell concentration of alginate/gelatin microcapsules was 10⁵ CFU/g after 4 months of storage at 8 ^oC.

• A new strain of Bacillus licheniformis was isolated from the cnidarian Palythoa caribaeorum for the first time. • Cellulases synthesized by a new strain of Bacillus licheniformis BCLLNF-01 are mainly excreted in the extracellular medium. • CMCase production was improved with increasing CMC concentration in the experimental range studied.

Aim: The encapsulation of Trichoderma asperellum BRM-29104 using Ca-alginate matrix was evaluated. Methods: Intact and freeze-dried beads containing submerged conidia and microsclerotia (MS) of T. asperellum grown in liquid culture were prepared. Beads were stored at 8, 25 and 35 °C over 120 days. Results: The mean sizes of beads before and after freeze-drying were 2.5 ± 0.2 mm and 1.5 × 1.1 mm (± 0.1 mm), respectively. Freeze-dried beads stored at 8 °C were more effective in maintaining conidia concentration, and MS concentrations were 10² MS/g for both beads at 8 and 25 °C. The concentration of viable cells in freeze-dried beads stored at 8 °C attained 3.0 × 10⁸ CFU/g after 120 days. FIRT analysis showed an interaction between the alginate and the cell wall of the fungus. Conclusion: These findings support the use of alginate beads followed by freeze drying and cold storage for maintenance of viability of T. asperellum.