Analysis of microbial communities in local cultivars of astringent persimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruits grown in Gyeongnam Province of Korea

Abstract

Aim : The objective of the present study was to characterize the microbial communities within the stalks of astringent persimmons fruits grown locally in Korea and two commercial herbal products (kaki calyx-Korean & kaki calyx-Chinese, using pyrosequencing based on 16S and 18S genes. Methodology : 'Gojongsi' sample was collected from Sancheong province, 'Danseongsi' from Sancheong province and 'Bansi' from Miryang province during different seasons (October to December) from Korea Forest Environment Research Institute at Gyeongsangnam-do. Thirteen samples were divided into four groups A, B, C and D. Group A consisted of three kinds of undried stalks collected in October. Group B consisted of three kinds of dried stalks and surfaces of persimmons collected in December. Group C consisted of two Korean herbal medicines (Kaki Calyx) sold in Korea which are commercial products. Group D consisted of two Chinese herbal medicines (Kaki Calyx) sold in China. Thirteen samples cultured in Luria-Bertani broth and potato dextrose broth under specific conditions were collected using sterile streaking sticks and placed into sterile plastic conical tubes. Results : Metschnikowia sp. was the dominant microorganism in groups A and B compared with those of groups C and Don the hit map. Metschnikowia sp. were detected in group A and B (stalks of herbal medicines without the manufacturing process). Metschnikowia sp. was amplified for identification. The results of sequence analysis of 18S rDNA gene showed that there were no matches greater than 97%. Therefore, the Metschnikowia sp. identified in this study may be a novel species. Interpretation : The present study provides information on various microorganisms isolated from nature's fruits and provides a list of microorganisms that can be experimented later.