Phylogenetic Identification, Diversity, and Richness of Aspergillus from Homes in Havana, Cuba

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Environmental microbiology
• Molecular biology

Background:

• The fungal genus *Aspergillus* is prevalent indoors and linked to various human diseases.
• Accurate identification of *Aspergillus* species is crucial for public health.
• Molecular identification methods for environmental *Aspergillus* isolates are underutilized in Cuba.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify *Aspergillus* species from Cuban homes using molecular phylogeny of the *benA* gene.
• To assess the diversity and richness of indoor *Aspergillus* in Havana.
• To establish baseline data for fungal biodiversity in Cuba.

Main Methods:

• Polyphasic characterization including macro- and micromorphology.
• Phylogenetic analysis based on partial *benA* gene sequences.
• Identification of environmental *Aspergillus* isolates from houses in Havana.

Main Results:

• Identified *Aspergillus niger*, *A. flavus*, *A. welwitschiae*, *A. heteromorphus*, *A. sydowii*, *A. tamarii*, *A. fumigatus*, *A. clavatus*, and *A. tubingensis*.
• Most identified species are new records for Cuban indoor and outdoor environments.
• The study contributes significantly to understanding Cuba's fungal biodiversity.

Conclusions:

• Molecular identification confirmed diverse *Aspergillus* species in Havana homes.
• These findings represent new records for Cuban fungal biodiversity.
• Results serve as a health alert regarding potential risks from prolonged exposure to *Aspergillus* spores, including severe asthma.