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A novel, cheap and easy preparing selective medium for isolation of Pythium species

Summary

Researchers have created an inexpensive and easy-to-use growth medium called FANS that effectively isolates disease-causing Pythium fungi from soil and water samples. Unlike expensive laboratory media containing toxic chemicals, FANS uses affordable pharmaceutical antibiotics costing about $11.55 per liter. This new medium successfully prevents contamination from other fungi and bacteria while promoting Pythium growth, making it especially valuable for scientists in developing countries studying plant diseases and pythiosis infections.

Background

Isolation of Pythium and Globisporangium species from natural sources is difficult due to heavy microbial contamination. Previous selective media like VP3, NARM, and NARF contain expensive, potentially toxic, or prohibited antibiotics that limit their global accessibility and use in developing countries.

Objective

To develop a new, cost-effective, and safe selective medium called FANS (Fluconazole + Ampicillin + Nystatin + Sulbactam) for selective isolation of Pythium and Globisporangium species from natural environmental sources.

Results

FANS medium demonstrated superior performance in supporting mycelial growth, zoospore and oospore production for P. aphanidermatum, P. oligandrum, and G. ultimum var. ultimum, outperforming VP3, NARM, and NARF media. FANS completely inhibited contaminating fungi and bacteria while promoting Pythium growth and selective isolation from diverse natural sources.

Conclusion

FANS selective medium provides a cost-effective, safe, and globally accessible alternative for Pythium isolation, costing approximately $11.55 per liter compared to expensive alternatives. This development supports sustainable biotechnology and circular bioeconomy initiatives, particularly benefiting researchers in developing and low-income countries.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41082101, PMCID: PMC12518738
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