Identification of Mucorales isolates from soil using morphological and molecular methods

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: . Accordingly, in the present study, we aimed to isolate and identify the main genera of the order Mucorales, using molecular assays and morphological features MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 340 soil samples were collected from seven public parks throughout the city and sidewalk gardens in 14 municipal districts in Isfahan, Iran. All the samples were cultured on the appropriate media, incubated at 27°C for 2- 4 days, and examined daily for visible fungal growth. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was applied and macroscopic, microscopic, and physiological characteristics were assessed to identify fungal colonies. RESULTS: (27.5%). CONCLUSION: The results emphasize the importance of opportunistic fungi in public areas and indicate the risk of exposure for immunocompromised individuals.