Abstract
Algae and fungi share a rich history in the fields of basic and applied natural science. In biotechnology, in particular, algae and fungi are of paramount importance, due to the production and development of valuable compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, enzymes, and biofuels. They are also used in waste fermentation, biocontrol of pathogens, and food processing and improvement, among other fields. Although a substantial number of different microorganisms are utilized for these purposes, there lies tremendous potential in uncharacterized microbial species. For this reason, biodiversity hotspots offer a wealth of potential in the discovery of new products and processing strategies based on these microorganisms. This review presents an overview of the use of algae and fungi in pre-Hispanic times/modern-day Mexico for the benefits of mankind. One of our objectives is to raise awareness about the potential of developing research projects for identification and biotechnological utilization of algae and fungi in a megadiverse country, such as Mexico.
Highlights
Past to Present: Biotechnology in Mexico is considered one of seventeen megadiverse countries in the world [1]. This diversity extends to algae and fungi, which have been used since pre-Hispanic times
Conservation efforts have been performed in Mexico since pre-Hispanic times, microorganisms are sometimes forgotten, as researchers instead focus on macroscopic diversity
This review provides a short overview of the biotechnological utilization of algae and fungi, which are found in Mexico
Summary
Past to Present: Biotechnology in Mexico is considered one of seventeen megadiverse countries in the world [1]. This diversity extends to algae and fungi, which have been used since pre-Hispanic times. Conservation efforts have been performed in Mexico since pre-Hispanic times, microorganisms are sometimes forgotten, as researchers instead focus on macroscopic diversity. These conservation efforts, performed in Mexico, have been documented and reviewed [2]. This review provides a short overview of the biotechnological utilization of algae and fungi, which are found in Mexico. Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations
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