ISOLATION OF FUNGI FROM WATER SOURCES IN AGBOR (SURFACE WATER AND GROUND WATER)

This study investigated the occurrence and diversity of fungal species in surface and groundwater sources in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria, with an emphasis on assessing potential health risks and environmental influences. The research aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize fungi present in selected water sources and evaluate key physicochemical properties of the waters. Water samples were collected from eight locations comprising boreholes and tap water sources. Standard microbiological methods were employed in the isolation and identification of the fungi. Morphological and microscopic identification techniques using lactophenol cotton blue staining enabled the identification of the fungal isolates. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and total titratable acidity (TTA) were also measured. Four fungal genera, Penicillium, Fusarium, Alternaria, and Saccharomyceswere identified. Notably, Aspergillus species were absent. Tap water samples showed higher fungal loads and more acidic pH (5.13–5.36) compared to borehole samples, which were neutral to slightly alkaline (6.93–7.39). Penicillium and Fusarium were the most frequently occurring fungi, especially in tap water, suggesting contamination from distribution systems or environmental exposure. The findings highlight the potential health risks posed by non-bacterial waterborne pathogens, especially in untreated or poorly maintained water sources. The presence of toxigenic and allergenic fungi underscores the need for comprehensive fungal monitoring in water quality assessments. In conclusion, this study provides critical insight into the microbial ecology of water systems in Agbor, advocating for improved sanitation, public health education, and routine fungal surveillance in drinking water management.