Exploring Mangrove-Associated Fungal Diversity through a Taxonomic Expedition in Raigad District, Maharashtra

Author(s): Minal Anil Patil

Abstract:

Embarking on a taxonomic exploration within Maharashtra's Raigad District, this research paper illuminates the hidden realm of mangrove-associated fungi along the vibrant west coast of India. The mangrove ecosystem, a haven of coastal and tropical vegetation, is a focal point, particularly in the Goa and Maharashtra regions. While marine fungi have received considerable attention, the emphasis has predominantly veered towards wood-inhabiting species, sidelining the crucial role played by manglicolous marine fungi in the decomposition of litter and living woody species. This research paper endeavours to rectify this imbalance by delving into the mangrove fungi of the Raigad coast, addressing a significant dearth of data. Through meticulous sampling over two consecutive years across creeks, estuaries, and seashores, various plant components and drifted materials were scrutinised. The study, encompassing 1600 collections across six diverse sites, unraveled seventy-one higher marine fungi, showcasing a diverse array of taxonomic groups. Ascomycota claimed dominance with seventy percent, followed by Basidiomycota, Mucoromycotina, Hyphomycetes, and Coelomycetes. A detailed taxonomic classification of observed manglicolous fungi is meticulously presented. Further organisation into lower hierarchical orders revealed a total of fifty-one species, spanning twenty-six families and fifteen genera. Notably, Aspergillus and Halosarpheia emerged as key players in this intricate fungal diversity. This research not only contributes significantly to marine fungi knowledge on the west coast of India, specifically in the Raigad district, but also aligns observed species with those reported from different parts of the Indian subcontinent. The identification of potential new records calls for further taxonomic scrutiny, perpetuating the ongoing pursuit of precision in fungal taxonomy. A pivotal outcome of this taxonomic expedition is the proposal of a comprehensive identification key. This pioneering effort lays the foundation for future identification and nomenclature endeavors, filling a significant void in the understanding of manglicolous fungi along the Raigad coast. The challenges encountered in taxonomic assignments underscore the imperative for additional precision-enhancing taxonomic work.

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Pages: 183-189     |    2 View     |    0 Download