Isolation and Identification of Pathogenic Fungi from Domestic Chicken Droppings in Diyala Province, Iraq

Abstract

Background and Objective: Some of significant zoonotic fungal pathogens are associated with birds, especially poultry. The purpose of this study was to isolate and identify pathogenic yeast and fungi strains from domestic chicken feces in different locations in Diyala Governorate.

Methods: Fresh fecal and fecal mixed with soil samples were obtained at random from different surrounding environments, such as cages, and residential coops. Specimens were collected with swabs or with labeled plastic spoons using sterile techniques, yielding a total of 50 samples. The Mycology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Diyala performed processing and microbiological analysis. For yeasts isolation, the samples were cultured on SDA. Fungal species were identified using morphological and microscopic analyses.

Results: Each of the 50 samples tested positive, with the following distribution: Candida spp.: 30 isolates (60%). Rhodotorula spp.: 5 isolates (10%). Cryptococcus spp.: 3 isolates (6%). Filamentous fungi: 12 isolates (24% of cases). Aspergillus species: 10 isolates (20%) including 7 isolates of A. niger and 3 of A. flavus. Rhizopus spp.: 2 isolates (4%).

Conclusions: These data suggest the relevance of poultry excreta as reservoirs of potential pathogenic fungi for human infections. Additional research is needed to evaluate related public health risks.