LE3 .A278 2018

2018

Walker, Allison

Acadia University

Bachelor of Science

Honours

Biology

Biology

Mycoremediation is the use of fungi for bioremediation of environmental contaminants, and is a promising method of repairing anthropogenic environmental damage. Fungi possessing lignocellulose degrading enzymes are of interest for the remediation of waste requiring hydrocarbon degradation, such as pulp mill waste. The purpose of this research was to provide insight into the fungal diversity present at several sites with relation to their proximity to a pulp mill, and to identify target species for remediation research. Fungi from these sites were cultured from decaying wood, water, and sediment. DNA barcoding and phylogenetics were used to identify the fungal species collected. Over 70 different fungal species were found, including a number of species that appear to be previously unidentified. Differences in fungal communities are discussed with relation to sites and substrates sampled, and culture media used. Species profiles for each site and links to toxin and contaminant degradation from literature were used to identify target species for further research regarding their remediation capabilities.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2717