Fungal biodiversity of the IFAN beach sand in Dakar, Senegal

Background: From a recreational point of view, the sandy beaches are much frequented because they represent a space for relaxation and leisure. Due to the large number of visitors, a possible contamination of the sand by fungal microorganisms could constitute a source of transmission by potentially pathogenic saprophytic fungi. The aim of this work is to determine the biodiversity of the sand of the IFAN (Fundamental Institute of Black Africa) beach in Dakar, Senegal. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional and descriptive study during the period from August 1, 2017, to April 1, 2018 (8 months). For every month, five sand samples of about 70 g collected at different locations on the beach were cultured on Sabouraud medium using the washing technique for yeasts and non-dermatophytic filamentous fungi isolation and the Vanbreusghem trapping technique for dermatophytes isolation. Results: Out of 45 sand samples collected, all contained at least one fungal species (100% positivity). Fifty-three (53) fungal strains composed of 12 micromycetes belonging to nine (09) different genera were isolated: Aspergillus (41.51%), Cladosporium (26.42%), Penicillium (15.09%) were the most predominant. Other species recovered comprise Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans with 1.89% each. Conclusion: According to our results, the sand of IFAN beach contains a great diversity of fungal species, including fungi incriminated in human pathology. Thus, it seems that the coastal sand represents an important reservoir of fungi whose role is poorly elucidated.