Seasonal variation in Aspergillus abundance in captive penguin burrow sands and its implication for aspergillosis risk in Japan.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Aspergillosis is a major fungal disease in penguins. However, seasonal variation of Aspergillus spp. in burrow sands and its association with meteorological factors remain poorly characterized, particularly under Japan's climatic conditions.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine seasonal changes in Aspergillus spp. abundance in Humboldt penguin burrows and test whether temperature and other environmental factors correlated with fungal positivity.

Methods

From June 2023 to October 2024, 158 sand samples were collected from burrows and surrounding areas at an outdoor Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) facility in Shimonoseki, Japan. Fungal colonies were cultured and identified morphologically and by sequencing.

Results

Asp

SUBMITTER: Takanobu S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12836384 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature