Biodiversity and bioactive compounds in wild macrofungi, Tirunelveli.

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Studies on the biodiversity, conservation, bio active compounds identification from selective wild macrofungi collected from western ghats of tirunelveli region, tamilnadu, india
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Subbulakshmi M. and Kannan M.


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Studies on the biodiversity, conservation, bio active compounds identification from selective wild macrofungi collected from western ghats of tirunelveli region, tamilnadu, india

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201716-10234


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Subbulakshmi et al. explores the biodiversity, conservation, and bioactive compound identification of selected wild macro fungi from the Western Ghats of the Tirunelveli region in Tamil Nadu, India. The research highlights the diversity of fungi in the area, focusing on three significant species: Calocybe indica, Laetiporus sulphureus, and Gloeophyllum sepiarium. With a backdrop of rich ecological habitats, the study aims to optimize the cultivation parameters of these fungi and evaluate their potential bioactive properties using various analytical methods, including TLC and GC-MS.

Nutritional and Chemical Analysis of Mushrooms

One of the key findings of the research is the detailed nutritional and chemical analysis performed on the selected mushrooms. Calocybe indica was highlighted for its rich nutrient profile, containing 17.69% protein, 64.26% carbohydrates, and various essential mineral salts. The study employed a series of biochemical tests to identify the presence of important phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and proteins across the different mushroom species. This analysis reveals the mushrooms' potential as healthy dietary supplements, providing a strong foundation for future nutritional research.

Cultivation Parameters and Mycelial Growth

The study also emphasizes the significance of cultivation parameters in the effective production of these mushrooms. Ideal temperatures (25-30°C) and pH levels (around pH 7) were identified for optimal mycelial growth. Various substrates, including sorghum and sawdust, were tested to establish the most effective media for cultivation. Through rigorous experimentation, the researchers found that using these selected substrates effectively promoted mycelial colonization, underscoring the importance of proper agricultural practices in maximizing yield.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities

The bioactive properties of the selected mushrooms were investigated, revealing significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Using DPPH radical scavenging assays, the researchers demonstrated that Calocybe indica exhibited the highest antioxidant potential among the tested species. Moreover, antimicrobial testing against various bacterial strains confirmed the ability of the mushroom extracts to inhibit the growth of pathogens. These findings suggest that these fungi possess considerable therapeutic potential, supporting their use in both dietary and medicinal applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study provides compelling evidence of the nutritional and medicinal value of selected wild macro fungi from the Western Ghats. With optimized cultivation techniques, these mushrooms can serve as valuable dietary supplements rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. The findings pave the way for future investigations into their therapeutic applications, as well as the potential to harness their benefits for health and nutrition. Further research is encouraged to explore the mechanisms of action and the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed biological activities.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the wild macro fungi studied in Tamil Nadu?

The study focused on three wild macro fungi: Calocybe indica, Laetiporus sulphureus, and Gloeophyllum sepiarium, collected from the Western Ghats in the Tirunelveli region of Tamil Nadu.

What methods were used for mycochemical analysis of mushrooms?

Mycochemical analysis involved TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) to separate, characterize, and estimate bioactive compounds in the selected wild fungi.

What are the nutritional components of Calocybe indica?

Calocybe indica is high in protein (17.69%), carbohydrates (64.26%), and fiber (3.4%). It contains essential minerals like potassium, sodium, and various amino acids, making it highly nutritious.

How was the antioxidant activity of the mushrooms measured?

Antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, which evaluates the ability of mushroom extracts to inhibit free radicals, indicating their potential health benefits.

What were the optimal conditions for mushroom cultivation?

Optimal conditions for cultivation included a temperature range of 25-30°C and a relative humidity of around 85%. Various substrates such as sorghum and sawdust were tested for growth.

What is the significance of this research on wild mushrooms?

This research highlights the biodiversity and nutritional potential of wild mushrooms, suggesting their use as natural antioxidants and possible therapeutic agents for health benefits.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Biodiversity and bioactive compounds in wild macrofungi, Tirunelveli.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Water:
Water is essential for the growth of mushrooms, supporting metabolic processes and the transport of nutrients. This research emphasizes water's role as a solvent in extraction processes and its absence in certain test methods, highlighting its significance in studying fungal biology and growth conditions.

2) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are bioactive compounds found in mushrooms that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. This study investigates their presence in selected fungi, contributing to understanding their health benefits and potential pharmaceutical applications, particularly in fighting diseases and enhancing dietary supplements.

3) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effects exhibited by substances, such as antioxidant or antimicrobial activities. This study assesses mushroom extracts' activity against pathogens and free radicals, showcasing the potential of these fungi as sources of medicinal compounds that may improve health and prevent disease.

4) Medium:
In microbiology, 'medium' refers to the growth environment that provides nutrients for microorganisms, including fungi. The study assesses various media types for culturing selected mushroom species, discussing their impact on growth rate and mycelial density, which are crucial for optimizing mushroom cultivation.

5) Species:
In this research, 'species' denotes the different types of wild macro fungi collected and studied from the Western Ghats. Identifying and categorizing these species helps document biodiversity, understand ecological roles, and explore their potential applications in food and medicine.

6) Mineral:
Mineral analysis is crucial in evaluating the nutritional content of mushrooms. This study measures the levels of essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium in selected fungi, illustrating their potential as nutrient-rich foods that may contribute to human health and well-being.

7) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' encapsulates the research conducted on wild macro fungi, focusing on their biodiversity, cultivation potential, and bioactive properties. This comprehensive investigation aims to document and understand the ecological and health-related significance of these mushrooms in the Tamil Nadu region.

8) Sugar:
Sugar content in mushrooms, particularly carbohydrates, is vital for their nutritional profile. The study analyzes sugar levels in the selected species, emphasizing their potential as energy sources and their role in dietary recommendations, especially for individuals with specific health conditions.

9) Ghat (Gham):
The term 'Ghat' refers to the mountainous region of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India, which harbors rich biodiversity, including a vast variety of fungi. The unique ecology of the Ghats influences the distribution and characteristics of the wild mushrooms studied.

10) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamil Nadu, the Indian state where the research was conducted, plays a crucial role in framing the study's geographic and environmental context. Its biodiversity offers a unique opportunity to explore various wild fungi and their properties.

11) Tirunelveli:
Tirunelveli is a district in Tamilnadu where wild macro fungi were collected for the study. Its geographical location within the Western Ghats contributes to its ecological richness, making it a significant area for biodiversity research and cultivation experiments.

12) Forest:
Forests in the Western Ghats are crucial habitats for diverse fungi. The study emphasizes the role of forest ecosystems in providing suitable conditions for mushroom growth and highlights the importance of conserving these areas for future biodiversity and ecological studies.

13) Table:
Tables in the research present quantitative data, such as mineral content and mycelial growth rates of different fungi. They facilitate easy comparison and understanding of the experimental results, aiding in the analysis of the nutritional and medicinal properties of the studied mushrooms.

14) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial activity refers to the ability of substances to inhibit bacterial growth. This study investigates the antibacterial properties of mushroom extracts against various pathogenic bacteria, showcasing fungi as potential sources for developing natural antimicrobial agents in medicine.

15) Heating:
Heating in the context of this study often refers to the process of drying or sterilizing substrates for mushroom cultivation. Proper heating techniques ensure successful cultivation by eliminating contaminants and creating optimal conditions for fungal growth.

16) India:
India, particularly the state of Tamil Nadu, serves as the geographical focus for this research. India's diverse climate and rich biodiversity make it an ideal location for studying macro fungi, contributing to broader ecological and pharmaceutical knowledge.

17) Tree:
Trees serve as important hosts for various fungi studied in this research. The interaction between trees and fungi, particularly in forest ecosystems, highlights the ecological roles of fungi in decomposing organic matter and nutrient cycling.

18) Soil:
Soil is a vital medium that influences mushroom growth by providing nutrients and moisture. This study acknowledges the role of soil composition in supporting the diverse fungal species found in the Western Ghats and their interaction with the surrounding environment.

19) Measurement:
Measurement is critical in the study to quantify the effects of various treatments on mushroom growth and bioactive properties. Accurate measurements ensure the reliability and reproducibility of results, essential for drawing meaningful scientific conclusions.

20) Harvesting (Harvest):
Harvest relates to the process of collecting mature mushrooms, crucial for understanding yield and cultivation practices. Effective harvesting techniques directly affect the sustainability of mushroom farming and distribution.

21) Relative:
Relative refers to the comparison of various factors, such as growth rates and susceptibility to treatments, among different mushroom species. This comparative analysis aids in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each species for cultivation and utilization.

22) Habitat:
Habitat denotes the specific environment where fungi thrive, particularly in the forests of Tamil Nadu. Understanding the habitat preferences of various mushroom species is essential for conservation efforts and sustainable cultivation practices.

23) Zoology:
Zoology, the study of animals, is relevant to this research as it connects with the ecological interactions between fungi and various animal species in the Western Ghats. The interdisciplinary nature of this study highlights the relevance of fungi in broader biological contexts.

24) Surface:
Surface characteristics of mushroom fruiting bodies, such as texture and morphology, are important for identification and understanding their ecological roles. This study records these features during the collection and examination of different mushroom species.

25) Muslin:
Muslin is a type of fabric used in the laboratory for filtering and separating solids from liquid extracts. In this research, muslin cloth is employed to prepare extracts from mushroom samples for further analysis of their chemical composition and biological activity.

26) Aureus:
Aureus, specifically Staphylococcus aureus, is a pathogenic bacterium tested for susceptibility to mushroom extracts in this study. Understanding the antibacterial effects against such pathogens is crucial for assessing the medicinal potential of the selected fungi.

27) Kannan:
Kannan refers to Dr. M. Kannan, one of the researchers involved in the study. His guidance and expertise are crucial for conducting this research, reflecting the collaborative nature of scientific investigations and the importance of mentorship in academia.

28) Filling (Filled):
Filled relates to preparation techniques in the study, such as filling culture media with specific substrates for mushroom cultivation. This term underscores the methodological details necessary for ensuring successful fungal growth and experimental consistency.

29) Glass:
Glass refers to laboratory equipment, such as petri dishes and containers, used for culturing and analyzing mushroom specimens. The clarity and sterility of glassware are critical for accurate experimental results and contamination prevention.

30) Field:
Field refers to the outdoor environments where mushrooms are collected for study. The fieldwork component of this research emphasizes the importance of practical exploration in understanding biodiversity and the unique characteristics of wild fungi.

31) Tiger:
Tiger denotes the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, a protected area in Tamil Nadu where specific fungi were collected. This conservation area highlights the importance of preserving ecosystems that support diverse flora, including valuable edible mushrooms.

32) Food:
Food refers to the potential of mushrooms as nutritious edible sources. This study explores the nutritional constituents of selected mushroom species, emphasizing their dietary benefits and potential roles in human health and nutrition.

33) Life:
Life, in the context of fungi, refers to their ecological roles and contributions to ecosystem functioning. Understanding how mushrooms interact with other organisms highlights their importance in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems.

34) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants and fungi that provide health benefits. This study focuses on identifying and analyzing phytochemicals in edible mushrooms, contributing to the understanding of their medicinal applications.

35) Discussion:
Discussion encompasses the analysis of research findings and their implications for science and society. It is an essential component of any scientific study, allowing researchers to interpret results and propose future research directions based on their observations.

36) Collecting:
Collecting refers to the process of gathering mushroom samples from their natural habitats for study. Proper collecting techniques ensure the preservation of mushroom integrity and provide insight into their ecological roles and applications.

37) Container:
Container refers to various lab equipment used for storing or culturing fungi, such as petri dishes or flasks. Proper containment is vital in experimental setups to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.

38) Medicine:
Medicine relates to the potential therapeutic uses of mushrooms, including their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This study provides insight into the medicinal value of wild fungi and their possible applications in contemporary healthcare.

39) Chandra:
Chandra refers to a researcher, significant for the taxonomy of mushrooms. Citing previous studies or researchers helps ground current investigations within the broader context of fungal research and adds credibility to the findings.

40) Quality:
Quality refers to the nutritional and health benefits provided by edible mushrooms. This study aims to assess the quality of different species based on their chemical composition, contributing to their valuation as food sources.

41) Disease:
Disease signifies various health conditions that mushrooms may help combat due to their bioactive compounds. This study highlights antimicrobial properties of selected mushrooms, indicating their potential in treating or preventing infections.

42) Account:
Account refers to the documentation of findings and observations in this research, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the scientific process. Detailed accounts foster better understanding and future comparative studies.

43) Company:
Company might refer to collaborative efforts in research or industry partnerships exploring mushroom cultivation and utilization. Collaboration is essential for sharing knowledge and resources, enhancing research outcomes.

44) Autumn:
Autumn is a season that may influence mushroom growth and distribution. Understanding seasonal effects on fungi helps in predicting availability and optimizing harvesting strategies.

45) Summer:
Summer impacts the cultivation environment for mushrooms, affecting temperature and humidity levels which are key determinants of growth. This study notes seasonal variations in mushroom availability in the Western Ghats.

46) Powder:
Powder refers to the processed forms of mushrooms used for extraction and analysis. The powdered form increases surface area, optimizing extraction efficiencies of bioactive compounds found in mushrooms.

47) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burned relates to the heating processes in preparing and sterilizing substrates or extracting compounds. Precise heating methodologies are essential for eliminating contaminants and ensuring successful mushroom cultivation.

48) Catta:
Chatta refers to 'Calocybe indica,' also known as milky mushroom, which is one of the key species studied in the research. Understanding its characteristics aids in assessing its commercialization potential.

49) Fight:
Fight denotes the potential of bioactive mushroom compounds to combat diseases and infections. This study explores mushrooms' roles as natural agents for disease prevention and treatment.

50) Tamil:
Tamil references the linguistic and cultural context of the region where the study takes place. Understanding local knowledge and practices enhances scientific research's relevance to local communities.

51) Blood:
Blood may refer to its use in antibacterial tests, emphasizing the potential health implications of mushroom extracts against pathogens affecting human health. Such tests demonstrate mushrooms' therapeutic potential in treating infections.

52) Cina:
China is significant as it has a long history of mushroom cultivation and usage in traditional medicine. This context enriches the understanding of mushrooms' cultural and medicinal importance globally.

53) Atri (Attri, Attr, Atr):
Atri refers to a scholar cited for previous research on mushrooms. Mentioning established researchers ensures the study is anchored within the wider academic discourse, validating its findings.

54) Devi:
Devi may refer to a contributor or co-author involved in the research. Acknowledging contributors highlights the collaborative nature of scientific work and the importance of teamwork in achieving research objectives.

55) Nadu:
Nadu, part of ‘Tamil Nadu,’ represents the regional focus of this study, providing insights into the unique biodiversity and ecological conditions prevalent in this part of India.

56) Bari:
Bari may refer to researchers or studies that are cited as references in this work. Citing previous literature is crucial for grounding new research within established scientific context, enhancing its credibility.

57) Line:
Line might refer to methodologies or experimental frameworks employed in the study, helping to clearly outline the procedures followed. Well-defined methodologies are essential for replicability and scientific rigor.

58) Salt (Salty):
Salt is often used in biological media or as a reagent in chemical tests. Its role in enhancing the solubility or reaction conditions underscores its importance in laboratory practices.

59) Cai (Caí):
Chai may refer to a researcher contributing prior work related to mushrooms. Citing established researchers lends credibility to the current study by situating it in the continuum of ongoing scientific research.

60) Pur:
Poor relates to the contexts that mushrooms, particularly those in nutrient-poor soils, thrive in. Understanding their adaptability helps illuminate the ecological roles and potential uses of these fungi in sustainable farming.

Other Science Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Biodiversity and bioactive compounds in wild macrofungi, Tirunelveli.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Antioxidant activity, TLC analysis, Antimicrobial activity, Flavonoid content, Total ash content, Bioactive compound, GC-MS analysis, Chemical investigation, Calocybe indica, Phenolic compound.

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: