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Insights into Persian Gulf Beach Sand Mycobiomes: Promises and Challenges in Fungal Diversity

Summary

Researchers studied fungi living in beach sand and seawater along Iran’s Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman coastlines to understand potential health risks. They found that dangerous fungi, particularly Aspergillus species, were present at levels exceeding safe thresholds for swimmers and beach visitors. Many of these fungi showed resistance to common antifungal medications, which is concerning for people with weakened immune systems. The study suggests that beaches need better monitoring and sanitation programs to protect public health.

Background

Beach sand mycobiomes remain understudied despite potential implications for human health. Fungal communities in coastal environments can include pathogenic species associated with respiratory infections, allergic responses, and dermatological conditions. This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding fungal contamination along the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman coastlines.

Objective

This research aimed to assess the prevalence and diversity of fungal species in beach sand and seawater samples from the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman, and to evaluate the antifungal susceptibility profiles of recovered isolates. The study sought to provide foundational data for establishing regulatory frameworks for fungal risk assessment in recreational coastal areas.

Results

Of 222 recovered isolates, 206 (92.8%) were filamentous fungi and 16 (7.2%) were yeasts. DNA sequencing identified 191 isolates across 13 genera and 26 species. Aspergillus represented 68.9% of isolates, with A. terreus being the most common species (26.14%). Voriconazole showed the highest efficacy against Aspergillus species. Fungal loads exceeded recommended safety thresholds at all beaches.

Conclusion

A. terreus and A. fumigatus were identified as predominant fungi along Persian Gulf beaches, with concerning levels of antifungal resistance detected. The high fungal contamination at recreational beaches presents potential health risks, particularly for immunocompromised individuals and beach visitors. Standardized sanitation programs and regulatory frameworks for fungal monitoring are essential for public health protection.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Environmental Survey Study,
  • Source: PMC12387288, PMID: 40863506, DOI: 10.3390/jof11080554
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