Aeromycological investigation in the atmosphere of Nagpur, Maharashtra (India)

Abstract

Fungi are ubiquitous in nature and found almost in all season. Fungal spores are released in the environment when suitable condition is available. Aeromycological study has great importance as air has its direct impact on human beings. The present study was emphasized on occurrence of different fungi during two consecutive years from February 2008 to January 2010. The total number of fungal colonies was calculated to assess the total aerospora of Nagpur by using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Total 21 different fungi were identified during the study period. Aspergillus niger (9.87%, 6.34%), Aspergillus flavus (2.80%, 1.61%), Aspergillus fumigatus (3.73%, 2.27%), Alternaria alternata (17.48%, 18.45%), Helminthosporium sativum (2.02%, 3.50%), Helminthosporium spp. (3.50%, 4.26%), Fusarium oxysporum (7.46%, 7.41%), Curvularia lunata (15.38%, 15.33%), Cladosporium cladosporioides (10.88%, 10.88%), Cladosporium spp. (8.08%, 10.79%) and Nigrospora spp. (3.73%, 5.08%) were predominantly found during first and second year respectively. Maximum numbers of colonies were identified during winter seasons (42.11%, 46.93%) followed by rainy (33.88%, 29.99%) and summer season (24.01%, 23.08%). The occurrence of fungi was correlated with meteorological factors.