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Diversity, Distribution and Hydrolytic Enzyme Potential of Yeasts Associated with Mangroves in Kumbalam, Kerala
Kizhakkeyveetil Abdul Saleem Nimsi, Kozhikotte Manjusha
MycoAsia 2025/10.
https://doi.org/10.59265/mycoasia.2025-10
Abstract
Kumbalam region represents a relatively small but ecologically important mangrove patch located in Central Kerala, yet its associated microbial communities, particularly yeasts, remain underexplored. This study presents the first comprehensive investigation of manglicolous yeasts associated with seven mangrove plant species, viz., Acanthus ilicifolius, Avicennia officinalis, Derris trifoliata, Kandelia candel, Rhizophora apiculata, R. mucronata, and Sonneratia alba, found in Kumbalam. Manglicolous yeasts were isolated from different plant tissues (roots, stems, branches, leaves, bark, flowers) and rhizosphere sediments of the seven mangrove species. A total of 72 morphologically distinct yeast strains were isolated. Candida tropicalis was the dominant yeast species associated with mangrove plants and mangrove plant tissues. The highest Shannon-Wiener diversity (H’) and Richness (d) were found among yeasts associated with R. mucronata. The yeast isolates could produce hydrolytic enzymes such as lipase (100 %), protease (31 %), amylase (25 %), urease (13 %), pectinase (8 %), cellulase (6 %), chitinase (4 %), and aryl sulphatase (1 %). This study establishes the baseline data on the diversity of yeasts associated with the mangrove vegetation of Kumbalam, as well as their hydrolytic potentials. The study also provides valuable insights into their ecological roles.
Plain Language Summary
Researchers investigated the diversity of yeasts living within the mangrove ecosystem of Kumbalam, Kerala. By sampling various tissues (like roots, leaves, and bark) from seven different mangrove species, they isolated 72 distinct yeast strains. The study identified Candida tropicalis as the most dominant species across the site. Beyond just identifying them, the team tested the yeasts’ ability to produce hydrolytic enzymes, which are essential for breaking down organic matter. Remarkably, 100% of the isolates produced lipase. These findings suggest that these yeasts play a critical ecological role in nutrient cycling and maintaining the health of the mangrove forest.
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