ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGI GROWING ON AN ANTI - MALARIAL DRUG

ABSTRACT

The isolation and identification of fungi growing on an anti malarial drug was investigated by streaking on a growth media (Potato Dextrose Agar) after using a swab stick to collect spores from the sample and inoculating the media which was further incubated at room temperature in a sterile environment for 3 to 7 days. The sample was surface sterilized with ethanol, the culture was observed macroscopically and microscopically. The investigation revealed that the sample was infected with a particular fungus because the symptom was steady and the fungus isolated was Penicillium sp. The fungus started growing on the 3rd day with white spores which were raised and by the 4th day it was more raised and visible to count the colonies. The period of growth of the fungus with visible growth was 4 days and it turned pale green on the 6th day. Fungi is ubiquitous, it can grow anywhere and also survive adverse conditions. Proper handling and packaging box pharmaceutical products is strongly advised to prevent attack by microorganisms especially fungi.