Comparative Analysis of Diversity and Distribution of Soil Mycoflora in Chhattisgarh, India.

Abstract

Introduction: The study of mycoflora, encompassing fungi like molds, yeasts, and mushrooms, is vital for understanding their ecological roles in nutrient cycling and decomposition, as well as their benefits and challenges in agriculture, medicine, and industry. In Chhattisgarh's tropical soils, diverse fungal communities contribute significantly to nutrient recycling, plant health through symbiotic relationships, and bioremediation. Research into these fungi aids in sustainable land management, agricultural productivity, and discovering new applications in various fields.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to identify and analyze the fungal richness, ecological nature, and distribution patterns in various soil types across different regions of Chhattisgarh, India. By conducting field surveys and employing standard protocols for fungal isolation and identification, the research aims to uncover the diversity, frequency, abundance, and density of fungal species present in forest, river, barren, and integrated mass soils.

Methods: Soil samples were collected from eight regions in Chhattisgarh, covering various soil types (barren, forest, river, and integrated mass) in April 2022. Potato dextrose agar media with chloramphenicol was prepared and used to culture fungi from these samples, which were incubated at 28°±2°C for five days. Fungal colonies were isolated and pure cultured, with the process repeated in triplicate. The isolates were stained with lactophenol cotton blue and identified microscopically at the genus level. Frequency, abundance, and density of each fungal species were calculated to determine their distribution and dominance.

Results: The study revealed significant fungal diversity across various regions and soil types in Chhattisgarh, India, with species like Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium showing wide distribution and adaptability. Analysis of frequency, abundance, and density highlighted dominant species and their ecological roles in different environments. The results underscore the influence of geographical location and soil characteristics on fungal community composition.

Conclusions: This comprehensive study of fungal diversity in Chhattisgarh, India, revealed significant fungal richness across varied soil types and habitats, highlighting their ecological roles in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and symbiotic relationships. The findings emphasize the potential applications of fungi in agriculture, bioremediation, medicine, and industry, and underscore their importance in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity. By identifying dominant and rare fungal species, the research lays a foundation for future studies to discover novel bioactive compounds and biotechnological innovations.m health and biodiversity. By identifying dominant and rare fungal species, the research lays a foundation for future studies.