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Isolation of Mycobacterium simiae from the environment
K H Schröder1, J Kazda, K Müller
1Research Institute for Experimental Biology and Medicine, Borstel, Germany.
Zentralblatt Fur Bakteriologie : International Journal of Medical Microbiology
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Mycobacteria were found in 83.3% of sphagnum samples from Madagascar, with high concentrations and potentially pathogenic species. This highlights sphagnum as a potential environmental source of infection for humans and animals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Tropical ecology
Background:
- Sphagnum mosses are crucial in peatland ecosystems.
- Understanding microbial communities in unique environments like Madagascar is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and diversity of mycobacteria in sphagnum mosses from Madagascar.
- To assess the potential health risks associated with these findings.
Main Methods:
- Collection of 18 sphagnum samples from two distinct biotopes.
- Analysis of mycobacterial presence and concentration using acid-fast bacilli staining.
- Identification of mycobacterial species.
Main Results:
- High mycobacterial positivity rate (83.3%) in sphagnum samples.
- Elevated concentrations of alcohol acid-fast bacilli (10^5-10^6/g).
- Identification of habitat-specific, potentially pathogenic, and the novel environmental M. simiae species.
Conclusions:
- Madagascar's sphagnum harbors a diverse and abundant mycobacteria population.
- Sphagnum mosses in this region represent a potential environmental reservoir for pathogenic mycobacteria.
- Further research is needed to understand transmission routes and public health implications.