Abstract:
This study aimed to evaluate lactic acid bacteria
isolates from Saanen goats’ milk for probiotic attributes, thereby
determining their potential as direct-fed microbials for
goats. Isolates were identified using API 50CH system, 16S
rDNA sequencing and matrix-assisted laser desorption
ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. All 17 isolates
obtained were identified as Lactobacillus plantarum except
one identified as Pediococcus acidilactici. Four isolates identified
as L. plantarum (Accession numbers KJ026587.1,
KM207826.1, KC83663.1 and KJ958428.1) by at least two
of the techniques used and isolate 17 differently identified by
all the methods used were selected as representatives and then
screened for probiotic properties. These isolates displayed
phenotypic probiotic attributes including tolerance to acid
and bile salts, ability to adhere to intestines and possession
of antagonistic activities against Proteus vulgaris,
Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The lactic
acid bacteria isolated from Saanen goats’ milk showed potential
to be used as sustainable probiotics in goats’ industry.
Successful use of probiotics in animals depends upon availability of appropriate isolates originating from the specific
host animal. This study is a positive contribution towards
identification of isolates with potential for formulation as
direct-fed microbials for South African Saanen goats.
