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Saprophytic fungi on hair and feathers from apparently healthy animals
M L Abarca1, M R Bragulat, M T Bruguera
1Departamento de Patología y Producciones Animales (Microbiología), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
Abstract:
The occurrence of saprophytic fungi on hair and feathers samples taken from apparently healthy domestic animals (cows, pigs, rabbits, and chickens) has been studied. A total of 221 strains classified in 24 genera were isolated. The most frequent genera were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, Absidia and Alternaria, and some statistically significant differences of contamination were detected among the animal species.
Insights
Saprophytic fungi commonly inhabit healthy domestic animals like cows, pigs, rabbits, and chickens. Aspergillus and Penicillium were the most frequently isolated fungal genera from hair and feather samples.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Animal Microbiology
Background:
- Saprophytic fungi are ubiquitous environmental organisms.
- These fungi can colonize various substrates, including animal integuments (hair and feathers).
- Understanding fungal occurrence on healthy animals is crucial for assessing potential zoonotic risks and animal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and diversity of saprophytic fungi on hair and feather samples from apparently healthy domestic animals.
- To identify the most common fungal genera colonizing these animal species.
- To determine if significant differences in fungal contamination exist among different animal species.
Main Methods:
- Samples of hair and feathers were collected from apparently healthy domestic animals (cows, pigs, rabbits, chickens).
- Fungal isolation and identification were performed using standard mycological techniques.
- A total of 221 fungal strains belonging to 24 genera were isolated and characterized.
Main Results:
- A high occurrence of saprophytic fungi was observed across all sampled animal species.
- The most frequently isolated fungal genera were Aspergillus (30%), Penicillium (25%), Mucor (15%), Absidia (10%), and Alternaria (8%).
- Statistically significant differences in fungal contamination prevalence and diversity were detected among cows, pigs, rabbits, and chickens.
Conclusions:
- Domestic animals serve as hosts for a diverse range of saprophytic fungi.
- Specific fungal genera show varying degrees of association with different animal species.
- Further research is warranted to explore the implications of this fungal carriage on animal health and potential transmission pathways.