Research Keyword: Environmental mycology

Diversity and Ecology of Fungi from Underexplored and Extreme Environments

This editorial discusses a special collection of studies exploring fungi that thrive in extreme and challenging environments around the world, from frozen Arctic lakes to salty lagoons and polluted soils. These fungi have evolved remarkable abilities to survive harsh conditions and can even help clean up contaminated environments or support plant growth in degraded soils. Researchers are discovering previously unknown fungal species and understanding how these organisms function in ecosystems, with potential applications for cleaning pollution, improving agriculture, and biotechnology.

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

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.

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The frequency distribution of Aspergillus section Nigri from clinical and environmental samples in Iran

Researchers studied black mold species (Aspergillus section Nigri) found in hospitals and the environment across Iran. They identified eight different species and found that certain types like A. welwitschiae were more common in ear infections while A. tubingensis was more prevalent in soil and air. These findings are important because some of these molds cause serious infections in humans and understanding where they live helps doctors predict and treat infections.

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Mapping Histoplasma spp. in bats and cave ecosystems: evidence from midwestern Brazil

Researchers found that caves in Brazil harbor a dangerous fungus called Histoplasma that can cause a serious lung disease in humans. The study detected the fungus in soil samples from several caves and in multiple bat species living in those caves. The findings show which caves are most dangerous and emphasize the need for warning signs and protective measures for cave visitors and workers in the region.

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The influence of car traffic on airborne fungal diversity in Tianjin, China

This study examined how car traffic affects fungal spores in the air in Tianjin, China. Researchers found that during rush hours when traffic was heaviest, there were more fungal spores in the air, particularly species that cause allergies and respiratory problems like asthma. The findings suggest that reducing car traffic could help improve air quality and reduce health risks from airborne fungal exposure in cities.

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Addressing Critical Fungal Pathogens Under a One Health Perspective: Key Insights from the Portuguese Association of Medical Mycology

This comprehensive study by Portugal’s mycology experts examines four dangerous fungi that cause severe infections: Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida auris, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans. The research shows that Portugal’s hospitals have varying capabilities to diagnose and treat these infections, with some laboratories well-equipped and others lacking advanced diagnostic tools. The study found concerning increases in antifungal resistance and highlights that these fungi live in hospitals, water systems, soil, and even animals, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches connecting human, animal, and environmental health to better protect public health.

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Occurrence of Pathogenic and Allergenic Molds in the Outdoor and Indoor Environment of a Major Hospital and Molecular Epidemiology of Aspergillus fumigatus in Kuwait

Researchers in Kuwait found many types of mold in and around a hospital, with some being resistant to common antifungal medications. They discovered that the same mold species were found both outdoors and in the hospital environment, suggesting patients could catch infections from the surrounding air. The study identified molds that could cause serious infections in vulnerable patients and found that about 10% of environmental samples contained drug-resistant strains that were also found in sick patients.

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