Commercial enzyme production: Which of the following bacteria are used industrially for producing bacterial amylases?

Introduction / Context:
Amylases are among the most widely used industrial enzymes, with applications in starch processing, baking, brewing, and detergents. Bacterial sources, particularly from the genus Bacillus, are prized for their thermostability and robustness in industrial conditions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question seeks organisms used commercially for bacterial amylase production.
• Options list two Bacillus species and one solvent-producing Clostridium.
• We assume standard enzyme industry practices.

Concept / Approach:
Bacillus species are the dominant bacterial producers of alpha-amylases (and related enzymes). Bacillus subtilis and related species/strains (including those historically referred to as Bacillus diastaticus) have been used to produce amylases at scale. By contrast, Clostridium acetobutylicum is a classic ABE (acetone–butanol–ethanol) fermenter and is not an industrial amylase producer.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Enzyme catalogs and industrial strains frequently stem from Bacillus spp., including B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, and historically “diastaticus” designations associated with starch-degrading activity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Only (a) or only (b) omits a legitimate industrial source.
• C. acetobutylicum is unrelated to commercial amylase manufacture.
• “None” contradicts established enzyme biotechnology.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing yeast “diastaticus” strains in brewing with bacterial nomenclature; overlooking that multiple Bacillus species serve as amylase workhorses.

Final Answer:
Both (a) and (b)