Polypeptides having phytase activity and polynucleotide sequences encoding the phytases are provided. The gene expresses the phytase at a level of at least 7 g/l to 40 g/L. The phytases have higher specific activity, retain activity at low pH, retain activity at high temperature, increased phosphorous equivalency, increased phosphorous bioavailability, and increased phosphorous hydrolysis. The phytases can be used in a variety of industries including food, feed, ethanol production, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning.