AimsTo screen and identify a potential extracellular -d-fructofuranosidase or invertase-producing bacterium from soil, and comparatively evaluate the enzyme biosynthesis under submerged and solid-state fermentation (SSF). Methods and ResultsExtracellular invertase-producing bacteria were screened from soil. Identification of the potent bacterium was performed based on microscopic examinations and 16S rDNA molecular sequencing. Bacillus subtilis LYN12 invertase secretion was surplus with wheat bran humidified with molasses medium (70%), with elevated activity at 48h and 37 degrees C under SSF, whereas under submerged conditions, increased activity was observed at 24h and 45 degrees C in the molasses medium. The study revealed a simple fermentative medium for elevated production of extracellular invertase from a fast growing Bacillus strain. ConclusionsBacterial invertases are scarce and limited reports are available. By far, this is the first report on the comparative analysis of optimization of extracellular invertase synthesis from B. subtilis strain by submerged and SSF. The use of agricultural residues increased yields resulting in the development of a cost-effective and stable approach. Significance and Impact of the StudyBacillus subtilis LYN12 invertase possesses excellent fermenting capability to utilize agro-industrial residues under submerged and solid-state conditions. This could be a beneficial candidate in food and beverage processing industries.