Microscopic Fungi in Big Cities: Biodiversity, Source, and Relation to Pollution by Potentially Toxic Metals

For the first time, a mycological analysis of outdoor urban environment (air, leaves, sealed surfaces) was carried in cities subarctic (Murmansk) and temperate (Moscow) climatic zones. The chemical composition dust deposited on leaves dominant tree species taken as an indicator air quality. Assessment complex impact factors (climate zone, type substrate, anthropogenic load) quantitative qualitative parameters mycobiome performed. Compared to Moscow, Murmansk characterized by increased number concentrations pollutants dust. culturable airborne fungi substantially lower than Moscow. Half belonged opportunistic both cities. Most dangerous were absent recreational zones but present surface road all assessed Dust affected diversity species. While relationship biological with concentration potentially toxic metals generally negative, Cd fraction study revealed importance substrate determining sensitivity pollution highlighted its characteristics sensitive climate.