Fungal activity in Mangalvan: an estuarine mangrove ecosystem

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic study of the fungal flora and their decaying activity in Cochin (India) and their possible role in nutrient regeneration in Mangalvan, a mangrove area of Cochin backwaters. Consequent to decay and decomposition of the mangrove vegetation by these fungi the detritus load is increased, contributing substantially to the food web of this important estuarine ecosystem. Thirty-one fungal isolates were recorded from the soil and 27 from decaying leaves, stems, roots and pneumatophores of the mangrove macrophytes while 7 from the decaying free floating plants. From 31 soil isolates screened for phosphate solubilizing activity, 9 showed activity, 2 good activity and NIO-C-3 Aspergillus candidus excellent activity indicating another possible role of these active fungi in the nutrient regeneration of the ecosystem by solubilizing insoluble phosphorus compounds making them available to other organisms present there.