Soil is well known as a route of infection for human and animals. Keratinophilic fungi from the soil of
Bagudo metropolis, Kebbi State was investigated at five sites namely; Gwargawo, Locusts, Ketarengada,
Unguwarjauga and Secretariat. One hundred (100) soil samples were collected from surface of 5, 10 and
15cm depth two weeks after cultivation to determine the prevalence of Keratinophilic fungi and
dominant species. The Keratinophilic fungi were analyzed using soil dilution plate method. Seven (7)
species of Keratinophilic fungi were isolates and identified viz., Microsporum canis, Trichophyton
rubrum, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Fusarium spp., Aspergillus niger and Penicillim spp.
Based on locations Gwargawo had the highest load of fungi distribution with (45%) followed by
Unguwarjauga with 35% while Ketarengada had the lowest 26% as compared to other sites. From the
results obtained Apergillus niger had the highest percentage of occurrences with (30%) and lowest were
obtained in Penicillium spp (2%). All isolated were in moderate frequency. The presence of
Keratinophilic fungi were reported for the first time in the paddy soil of Bagudo L.G.A. Thus, hygiene
protocol should be taken to prevent the spread of these fungal species in these areas to avoid risk of
fungal infection in humans and animals. These findings should be taken into consideration and necessary
treatment methods should be taken up periodically.
Key words: Keratinophilic, waterlogged, soil, percentage and Bagudo
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