Phylogenetic analysis of the Aspergillus niger aggregate in relation to feruloyl esterase activity.

Species of the Aspergillus niger aggregate are known to produce feruloyl esterases, enzymes involved in the degradation of cell wall polymers. However, species delineation is difficult in these fungi. We combined AFLP analysis with ITS rDNA and beta-tubulin sequencing to characterize the isolates of this aggregate in terms of feruloyl esterase production.

Fungal microflora and ochratoxin a risk in French vineyards.

To evaluate the ochratoxin A risk in French vineyards, five winemaking regions were investigated. An exhaustive survey of the fungal microflora of 60 grape samples was carried out at two development stages of the berries: end of veraison and harvest time. Potentially toxinogenic fungi isolated from grapes were assessed in vitro for ochratoxin A production.

Effects of fungal bioaugmentation and cyclodextrin amendment on fluorene degradation in soil slurry.

This study assesses the potential of fungal bioaugmentation and the effect of maltosyl-cyclodextrin amendment, as an approach to accelerate fluorene biodegradation in soil slurries. 47 fungal strains isolated from a contaminated site were tested in the biodegradation of fluorene. Results showed the greater efficiency of "adaptated" fungi isolated from contaminated soil vs.

Fungal flora and ochratoxin a production in grapes and musts from france.

Eleven samples of grapes and musts used in red table wines were investigated for the occurrence of potential ochratoxin A (OTA)-producing molds. From these samples, 59 filamentous fungi and 2 yeasts were isolated. Among the 30 genera isolated, Deuteromycetes were the most frequent (70%) followed by Ascomycetes (10%).