DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTION OF AIRBORNE MYCOFLORA IN ACADEMIC BUILDINGS IN RIVERS STATE

Abstract

Atmospheric pollution, particularly from indoor air contaminants, presents a growing public health concern. This study assessed the presence and concentration of airborne fungi in selected buildings within a tertiary institution in Rivers State, Nigeria. Sampling sites included classrooms, a shopping complex, a restaurant, and residential quarters. The open plate sedimentation technique using Sabouraud Dextrose Agar was employed for weekly air sampling over a four-week period. Fungal colony counts across ten sampling locations ranged from 1.7 to 60.2 × 10³ CFU/m³, with mean values between 6.5 and 21 × 10³ CFU/m³. Identified fungal species included Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. nidulans, A. terreus, Cladosporium resinae, Fusarium spp., and Penicillium spinulosum—many of which are known to be associated with respiratory infections. Microbial load and fungal diversity varied by location and sampling week. High fungal concentrations in several buildings suggested poor adherence to design and ventilation standards, indicating substandard living and learning environments. The study underscores the need for improved indoor air quality management and adherence to construction best practices in institutional settings to safeguard occupant health