Fungal biodiversity and ethnomycological knowledge are fundamental components of the biocultural identity of communities within the La Malinche National Park (PNM), a region of ecological and cultural significance in Mexico. This study documented the diversity of wild fungi and their uses in San Miguel Canoa, Puebla, through field excursions with local mushroom gatherers, interviews, and qualitative analysis. Key species such as Russula delica, Boletus aff. edulis, and Amanita basii were identified, playing a vital role in local gastronomy with traditional recipes like mole and pipián. Intergenerational knowledge transmission, crucial for identifying edible fungi and avoiding intoxications, highlights the importance of oral tradition. However, deforestation, illegal logging, and land-use change threaten fungal diversity, a problem exacerbated by the lack of effective conservation policies. The discussion highlights the interplay between biodiversity and culture, emphasizing the significance of the Wild Mushroom Fair organized by the Yolaltepetl collective as an effort to disseminate ethnomycological knowledge and promote the conservation of the PNM. Such community-driven initiatives represent a sustainable model that integrates environmental protection with cultural strengthening. The study concludes that protecting the PNM requires a holistic approach, merging ecological conservation with the recognition of biocultural knowledge. This is essential to preserve both biodiversity and cultural heritage, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

This study was designed to identify the bacteria and yeasts from the milk samples of dairy cattle presenting with subclinical mastitis and evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility. We collected a total of 52 milk samples from cows across three farms in San Salvador El Seco (Puebla, Mexico). Microbial isolation was performed using microbiological techniques followed by taxonomic identification of bacteria and yeasts. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using the guidelines provided by the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI). 1 We identified three genera and six species of yeasts including Candida glabrata, C. krusei, C. lipolytica, Cryptococcus laurentii, Rhodotorula rubra, and R. glutinis and five species of bacteria, including Staphylococcus saprophyticus, S. aureus, S. hominis, S. epidermidis, and Streptococcus disgalactiae. All of the yeast strains were sensitive to amphotericin B; 1/23 (4.3%) were resistant to ketoconazole and nystatin, 10/23 (43%) were resistant to fluconazole, and 13/23 (53%) were resistant to 5-fluorocytosine. The dominant genus isolated was Candida, with the most abundant groups being C glabrata and C. krusei. Resistance to 5-fluorocytosine was observed in all yeasts except C. lipolytica, while both S. aureus and S. epidermidis were resistant to oxacillin and dicloxacillin. S. hominis was resistant to gentamicin. These antimicrobials are still used in bovine therapy for mastitis, directly affecting healthy cattle and, therefore, raw milk.

The assessment of indoor air quality and fungal bioaerosols in hospitals is critical due to nosocomial infections. Aspergillus, a primary opportunistic pathogen causing aspergillosis, is heavily implicated in Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). This cross-sectional study evaluated fungal contamination in critical, emergency, and transition areas of a tertiary care hospital in Puebla, Mexico, during 2025. A physical matrix of 208 environmental samples (48 active bioaerosols and 110 infrastructure surfaces) plus 50 human biological specimens was systematically analyzed, identifying 29 fungal genera. Environmental samplings revealed a consistent mycological profile dominated by Penicillium spp. (35%), followed by Aspergillus (predominantly A. fumigatus, 16%) and Cladosporium (8%). Conversely, human clinical specimens exhibited a distinct profile characterized by yeast predominance, led by Candida (C. albicans, 26%), while Aspergillus was limited to A. flavus (12%). Epidemiological evaluation using the NTP-290 valuation questionnaire confirmed that the infrastructure met sick building criteria. Shannon-Wiener index analysis showed low, stable fungal diversity in the operating theater (), while high-traffic zones like the general waiting room and laboratory exhibited high diversity (up to ) with marked seasonal variability. These findings demonstrate high microenvironmental exposure risks, providing essential baseline data to engineer mitigation strategies and prevent nosocomial outbreaks.