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INVESTIGATING SAPROPHYTIC DIVERSITY IN WEST GEORGIA UTILIZING DNA BARCODING

Abstract

Gaining insight into the biodiversity of saprophytic fungi within a specific region is vital for various ecological, environmental, and conservation purposes. These fungi are integral to nutrient cycling, as they decompose organic materials, including decaying plants and animals, into simpler substances that enhance soil quality. This decomposition process is essential for maintaining soil health, promoting plant growth, and ensuring the overall functionality of ecosystems. Furthermore, saprophytic fungi shape the composition of microbial communities and engage with other organisms, such as plants and insects, thereby forming intricate ecological networks. The documentation of fungal diversity in west Georgia is particularly significant due to the area's distinctive climate and habitat variety, which may harbor numerous fungal species, some of which may be unknown or insufficiently studied. Traditional methods of morphological identification often face limitations due to the seasonal nature of fruiting bodies and the requirement for specialized knowledge. DNA barcoding offers a solution to these challenges by providing a reliable and consistent approach to species identification. The main objective of this research is to create a foundational understanding of fungal diversity in West Georgia, serving as a reference for future studies that can identify shifts in species composition resulting from natural or human-induced changes. Such foundational data are crucial for comparative studies, yielding insights into fungal biogeography and ecology across various regions and timeframes. By focusing on a 700 bp segment of the ITS gene region, recognized for its precision in species identification, this study not only deepens our comprehension of fungal biodiversity and its ecological significance but also supplies essential information to guide conservation efforts and biodiversity monitoring in the area. Establishing this baseline will aid in long-term ecological assessments and effective land management strategies.

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