Grape seeds were used by Trametes hirsuta as a substrate for laccase production giving 23 kU l(-1),which was 10-fold the value attained in the cultures with no lignocellulosic waste addition. The dyes, Indigo Carmine and Bromophenol Blue, were easily decolourised (100% in 24 h) by the extracellular liquid obtained in such cultures, whereas Methyl Orange (65% in 24 h) and Phenol Red (36% in 24 h) were more resistant to degradation. This shows the specificity of laccase towards different dye structures.