Fungi are heterotrophic eukaryotes that feed on dead and decaying matter.
The relationship that Fungi hold with their hosts is mutualistic and beneficial for both.
Fungi usually grow in a terrestrial place that has moisture content and a carbon source.
In marine microorganisms, fungi have great importance due to their significance in
pharmacology and ecology. Marine fungi have high chemical and biological properties
and are rich in secondary metabolites. They possess antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal,
anti-yeast, and stimulant properties. Biological factors are mainly either antibiotic or
anticancer. The strains of the genera Penicillium, Emericellopsis, and Simplicillums
show high action, whereas the species Aspergillus oryzae (G3) and Penicillium
chrysogenum (AN12) have high antioxidant properties.
In ecology, the straminipile fungi of mangrove habitats play a very good role in
recycling nutrients. The antibacterial property of marine fungi can be determined with
the help of a scanning electron microscope. Marine fungi act against parasites at
various tropical levels. Auxiliary parasitic metabolites are assumed to be a significant
part, especially against horrendous infections. The bioactive compounds from fungi are
known for their activities against various pathogens, particularly as potential sources
for new anti-plasmodial drugs. Studies suggest that the annual number of new fungal
metabolites is getting increased.
Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Drugs, Diseases, Habitat, Mangrove.