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Airborne Fungal Spore Diversity Assessment Using Culture-Dependent and Metabarcoding Approaches in Bat-Inhabited Natural and Anthropogenic Roosts in Portugal

Summary

Researchers studied fungal diversity in bat caves across Portugal using two methods: growing fungi in labs and analyzing DNA from air samples. They found over 280 different types of fungi, with some being common decomposers and others potentially harmful to human health. The study revealed that bat activity and human visits significantly influence which fungi live in caves, highlighting the importance of protecting these unique underground ecosystems.

Background

Bat-inhabited caves and anthropogenic structures represent unique microbiological ecosystems with specialized fungal communities. Fungi play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and decomposition in these extreme environments. Understanding fungal diversity in bat roosts is essential for cave ecosystem conservation and health risk assessment.

Objective

This study aimed to provide the first comprehensive assessment of fungal diversity in airborne samples from bat roosts across Portugal using both culture-dependent and metabarcoding approaches. The research sought to explore ecological relationships and environmental factors influencing fungal communities in natural and anthropogenic roosts.

Results

Culture-dependent analysis yielded 11 fungal isolates from four genera including Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Chaetomium. Metabarcoding detected 286 unique fungal genera across all sites, with Aspergillus, Candida, and Calyptella dominating. Ascomycota dominated all sites (78-92%), followed by Basidiomycota. PCoA analysis revealed distinct clustering patterns influenced by site-specific environmental factors and human activity.

Conclusion

Portuguese bat roosts harbor diverse fungal communities adapted to oligotrophic conditions, with distinct profiles influenced by environmental factors and anthropogenic impacts. The study highlights the need for conservation measures to protect cave ecosystems from human disturbance and emphasizes the complementary strengths of culture-dependent and metabarcoding approaches for fungal assessment.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40422694
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