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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 new types of fungi that can break down plastic waste in landfills. These fungi, along with two previously known species, were found in soil from two landfill sites and were shown to degrade polyethylene plastic. The scientists used multiple testing methods to confirm the fungi actually decompose the plastic by breaking down its chemical structure. This discovery offers hope for a biological solution to South Africa’s serious plastic waste problem.

Background

Plastic pollution, particularly polyethylene (PE) waste, poses significant environmental challenges globally and in South Africa. South Africa ranks 11th globally and 3rd in Africa for mismanaged plastic waste, with inadequate landfill operations and waste management infrastructure. Bioremediation using fungi offers a promising sustainable solution for addressing PE accumulation in landfill environments.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and identify fungal species from South African landfill soils and assess their ability to biodegrade pretreated low-density polyethylene (LDPE) under various growth conditions. The research sought to identify novel PE-degrading fungi and expand knowledge of indigenous fungal biodegradation potential for developing region-specific plastic waste management strategies.

Results

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

Conclusion

This study represents the first report of novel fungal species capable of degrading PE in South African landfill soils and significantly expands 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 tailored to regional contexts.
  • Published in:Biodegradation,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1007/s10532-025-10170-0
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