Atmospheric aerosol fungi concentration and diversity in the South of Western Siberia

The results of the two-year observation of the atmospheric aerosol fungi concentration and diversity in the south of Western Siberia are presented. It is found that the fungi concentration in samples of atmospheric air can change dramatically: from less than 10 up to several thousands of viable fungi per cubic meter. A total of 18 genera of fungi referring to 3 subdivisions (Zygomycotina, Ascomycotina, and Deuteromycotina) were identified in the samples under study. Among them are representatives of those genera that are potentially pathogenic for human health (e.g., Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria, Trichoderma, etc.) and those that may be useful in modern biotechnology (e.g., Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Ganoderma, etc.).