GROWTH OF CANDIDA ALBICANS ON MODIFIED MEDIA BASED ON COOWBEANS (VIGNA UNGUICULATA L. WALP)

One fungus that can cause infection is Candida albicans. Supporting examinations to confirm the diagnosis can be carried out by growing the fungus in fungal growth media. The abundance of natural resources can be used as substitute raw materials for growth media for microorganisms. Cowpea is a natural ingredient that contains quite high nutrients, is widely available, easy to cultivate, has a fast harvest time, and is relatively affordable. This research aimed to determine the growth and morphology of Candida albicans on modified cowpea media. The method used was laboratory experimental and five variations were made to differ in the amount of cowpea added, namely 5 g (F1), 10 g (F2), 15 g (F3), 20 g (F4), 25 g (F5). The research showed that Candida albicans fungus grew on the modified cowpea media. The morphology of Candida albicans colonies in all cowpea-modified media formulations is characterized by smooth round colonies, yellowish white with a characteristic yeast odor. Candida albicans fungi in F1, F2 and F3, produce blastospores. Candida albicans fungi in F4 and F5 produce blastospores, pseudohyphae, and chlamydospores. Cowpea-modified media can be used as an alternative growth medium for Candida albicans, the best seen from its morphology is F5 with the addition of 25 g of cowpea.