Concentration and diversity of micromycete species in raw material of Aegopodium podagraria L.

Abstract

World Health Organization states that approximately 80% of the global population relies on various medicinal plants and spices that are collected in forests or other areas, for treatment of their health issues. However, several environmental factors, such as suitable temperature, rainfall and relative humidity in the collection area, can induce the proliferation of various microscopic fungi [1]. Although some of them form symbiotic relationships with plants or their roots, they are considered a microbial hazard because they synthesize secondary metabolites and mycotoxins that could cause problems both economically and for human or animal health [2]. Therefore, it is necessary to examine collected herbs, in order to ensure their quality. The aim of this research was to determine micromycete species, associated with different parts of Aegopodium podagraria L. and their concentrations. In this experiment different parts of plant (leaves, stems and roots) were cut into 1-2 cm pieces and placed symmetrically onto a MAE medium in a Petri dish. The plates with plant parts were incubated at a thermostat at 25 °C for 5–7 days. After a week, the growth of molds and yeasts was analysed and micromycetes were identified morphologically. Nine species of micromycetes were determined in leaves, stems and roots of A. podagraria: Trichoderma vidire, Alternaria alternata, Penicillium olsonii, Phytophthora nicotianae, Aspergillus glaucus, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus niger, Candida krusei, Cryptococcus neoformans. To determine the quantity of colony forming units, dilution method was used, and the concentration of micromycetes was calculated based on the dilution factor. Micromycetes with the highest concentrations in leaves and roots were Trichoderma viride (9125 cfu/g and 850 cfu/g respectively), in stems - Candida krusei (950 cfu/g). This research helped to determine the distribution of micromycetes in Aegopodium podagraria L. raw material and estimate potential risks, associated with it.