The Pestalotiopsis sp. genus comprises filamentous fungi whose species present both pathogenic and clinical-industrial importance. The cultivation and production of bivalve molluscs in regions of Rio de Janeiro is lucrative both artisanally and industrially, as the climate, geography and water quality favor the practice of this activity throughout the year at reduced costs, making the region competitive in the national market. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify filamentous fungi associated with the internal tissue anatomy of bivalve molluscs (Perna perna) from mariculture farms. Samples collected from BEMAR marine farms were dissected and transferred to 1% hypochlorite, washed in sterile distilled water and sown on Petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar (BDA). After four days, a white colony, displaying vigorous mycelium, cotton-like with abundant sporulation and black conidia masses was isolated. Observations concerning vegetative and reproductive structures were performed by microcultures stained with Amann's Lactophenol andCotton Blue. Micromorphology analyses indicated spindle and septated conidia, with two to three apical filiform appendages and a short basal pedicel. The result indicates that bivalve mollusks may be bioindicators for the presence of Pestalotiopsis sp; associated with water transport, possibly due to diluted sediments in the medium. No infectious processes or lesions in the processed material were observed. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of Pestalotiopsis sp; in Perna perna mytilids.
Keywords: Aquatic filamentous fungi; Mariculture; Pestalotiopsis; Toxic fungi.
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