Volume 62, Issue 341, May - August 2026

Transmission of fungal profile and aflatoxin producing potential of some Aspergillus Spp. risk to animal and human environmental health

Usman S^1♦, Samaila U², Yusuf AB¹, Muhammad YA³

¹Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria
²Department of Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
³Department of Microbiology, Usumanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria

^♦Corresponding Author
Usman S, Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Aflatoxins a group of heterocyclic metabolites produced by the fungi of the genus Aspergillus; particularly Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus parasiticus. This research aims to isolate aflatoxins-producing Aspergillus spp. from layers’ feed sold within Sokoto metropolis. The sample of the layers’ feeds, were analysed for aflatoxin using ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay). VOCs were analyzed using MS (Mass Spectrometer). Fungi was also isolated and identified. There is no higher concentration of aflatoxin found in a sample feed from Kofar Atiku, but were detected in other samples (> 20 ppb permissible in animal feed). The VOCs were identified as considerable, with highest abundance recorded at Masallacin Bafarawa (Cis-8-methyl-exo-tricylo [5.2.1.0(2.6), deconic acid = 4.49%), Mabera (2,6 Diethylnitrosobenzene = 4.44%), and Arkilla (1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ether = 4.06%). A total of 26 cultured of fungal species (100%) were identified, with A. flavus 10 (38.4%), A.parasiticus 8 (30.7%), A. niger 2 (7.7%), A. fumigatus 2(7.7%), A. clavatus 2(7.7%), and A. oryzae 2 (7.7%). 20 isolates being screened, with 7 isolates found to be positive for aflatoxin production, and 6 isolates also positive for their toxigenic capabilities. The study suggests that a proper treatment of poultry meats before eating is necessary. This will help minimize contamination, and ensure health security before consumption.

Keywords: Layers Feed, Fungi, Aflatoxins and Volatile Organic Compound

Discovery, 2026, 62, e16d3260

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Published: 30 June 2026