Phaseolus vulgaris (Baguio bean) Extract as an Alternative Nutrient Source for the Culture Medium of Selected Fungal Strains

The study explores the use of Phaseolus vulgaris crude extract as an alternative nutrient source for fungal culture media, addressing rising agricultural waste and costly growth media. The crude extract was prepared by a decoction of 10/20/30 grams of whole Phaseolus vulgaris in 100 mL distilled water and was added with 2/3/6 g sucrose and 2.8 g nutrient agar powder to make the PVSA (Phaseolus vulgaris Sucrose Agar) culture media. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of polyphenols, tannins, and saponins in the crude extract, suggesting their potential to support fungal growth. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and PVSA culture media were physically comparable. Macroscopic and microscopic analyses showed no significant changes in morphology, pigmentation, sporulation, or cell structure of four fungal strains (Aspergillus oryzae, Trichoderma harzianum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) grown on PVSA compared to PDA. Furthermore, it was found that A. oryzae (293 cfu) grew best in the control after 72 hours, while T. harzianum (49.84 mm) grew best in PVSA 1. F. oxysporum (106 cfu) and S. cerevisiae (204 cfu) both grew best in PVSA 3. However, Tukey’s result showed no significant difference in the multiple comparison indicating that any formulation of PVSA culture media can be used as an alternative for PDA; but PVSA 1 is the optimal formulation, considering the lesser amount of Phaseolus vulgaris utilized in the media. Thus, the results of the study proved that Phaseolus vulgaris crude extract is a viable alternative nutrient source for the culture medium of selected fungal strains.