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Identification of novel polyethylene-degrading fungi from South African landfill soils: Arthrographis kalrae, Lecanicillium coprophilum, and Didymosphaeria variabile

Summary

Researchers in South Africa discovered three previously unknown fungi that can break down plastic waste, particularly low-density polyethylene used in shopping bags. These fungi were isolated from landfill soils and showed the ability to degrade plastic strips through oxidative processes, with chemical changes detectable using advanced analysis techniques. This discovery offers hope for developing local, biologically-based solutions to South Africa’s serious plastic waste problem.

Background

Plastic waste management in South Africa is inefficient, with the country ranking 11th globally for mismanaged plastic waste. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is highly resistant to biodegradation due to its hydrophobicity and stable carbon-carbon bonds, persisting for decades or centuries in the environment. Bioremediation using plastic-degrading fungi offers a promising sustainable solution to mitigate plastic accumulation.

Objective

To identify and evaluate fungal isolates from South African landfill soils for their ability to biodegrade polyethylene, contributing to sustainable plastic waste management solutions. The study aimed to assess biodegradation efficiency through gravimetric analysis and characterize structural alterations in the polymer matrix.

Results

Five isolates demonstrated significant PE degradation, with three novel PE degraders identified: Arthrographis kalrae SP5INT, Lecanicillium coprophilum SP7MK, and Didymosphaeria variabile SP11INT. Penicillium chrysogenum SP17MK and Engyodontium album SP3MK achieved over 20% weight loss. FTIR analysis revealed appearance of carbonyl groups and reduction in characteristic PE peaks, while SEM confirmed surface erosion and structural disintegration of the polymer.

Conclusion

This study represents the first report of these three novel fungal species capable of degrading PE in South African landfill soils, significantly expanding the known diversity of plastic-degrading fungi. The findings highlight South Africa’s emerging role in microbial bioremediation research and provide a foundation for developing locally relevant, biologically based plastic waste management strategies.
  • Published in:Biodegradation,
  • Study Type:Experimental/Laboratory Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40742605
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