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The frequency distribution of Aspergillus section Nigri from clinical and environmental samples in Iran

Summary

Researchers studied black mold species (Aspergillus section Nigri) found in hospitals and the environment across Iran. They identified eight different species and found that certain types like A. welwitschiae were more common in ear infections while A. tubingensis was more prevalent in soil and air. These findings are important because some of these molds cause serious infections in humans and understanding where they live helps doctors predict and treat infections.

Background

Aspergillus section Nigri species are widely distributed in decaying plant materials and soil. While most are known for food spoilage and industrial applications, some species including A. tubingensis, A. welwitschiae, and A. niger are etiologic agents of human and animal aspergillosis. The frequency of each species varies with meteorological conditions.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the frequency distribution of Aspergillus section Nigri in clinical samples and environmental sources across several Iranian provinces and to characterize phylogenetic relationships among isolates.

Results

Among 192 Aspergillus section Nigri isolates, A. tubingensis was most common (41.15%), followed by A. welwitschiae (35.94%), A. niger (17.71%), and other species at lower frequencies. A. welwitschiae was the most prevalent in clinical samples (44.07%), while A. tubingensis was most common in environmental samples. Phylogenetic analysis identified two main clades representing distinct species groups.

Conclusion

This study identified eight black aspergilli species from Iranian clinical and environmental samples. A. tubingensis, A. welwitschiae, and A. niger were the predominant species, with distribution patterns varying by geographic location and sample source, suggesting correlation between environmental and clinical occurrence.
  • Published in:BMC Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40890620, DOI: 10.1186/s12866-025-04323-7
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