Hydrocarbon Degradation Potential of the Endophytic Mycobiome of Mangrove Halophytes

Polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic, persistent pollutants in coastal areas. This study explored mangrove endophytic fungi (MEF) as eco-friendly agents that break down these compounds. From 99 MEF isolates from Pulau Carey, Malaysia, 24 showed activity linked to PAH degradation. Two fungi, Xylaria feejeensis AvL06 and Paramarasmius palmivorus SoL21, were most promising. When glucose was added, these isolates produced more fungal biomass and enzymes, and removed more PAHs. X. feejeensis AvL06 achieved the highest degradation and reduced toxicity in plant and brine shimp toxicity tests. Overall, MEF show strong potential for cleaning up PAH pollution.