Bioprospecting of Microascus verrucosus: a hidden Saharan reservoir for novel industrial biocatalysts

Ikram Mezouri, Ahmed Makhloufi & Yahia Chebloune

Sydowia 79: 267-275

Published online on October 12th, 2026

This study explores the ecological adaptability and bioprospecting potential of a poly-extremophilic fungal strain isolated from the hypersaline and alkaline soils of the Tililane Sebkha (Adrar, Algerian Sahara). Based on morphological characterization and phylogenetic affinities, the isolate was identified as Microascus verrucosus. Physiological screening revealed a remarkable resilience to compound abiotic stressors, demonstrating robust growth under high salinity and maintaining metabolic stability at alkaline pH extremes. The biotechnological significance of this Saharan isolate was evidenced by its expansive enzymatic repertoire; the Analytical Profile Index (API ZYM) gallery yielded 10 positive reactions, highlighting significant activities of esterase-lipases, phosphatases, and glycosidases. These results suggest that the strain’s adaptation to the fluctuating osmotic and thermal conditions of the Saharan endorheic depressions has selected for highly stable extremozymes. Spectroscopic analysis using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) validated these functional traits by identifying key bioactive functional groups and secondary metabolite signatures associated with industrial potential. These findings establish M. verrucosus as a promising “hidden” reservoir of robust biocatalysts, offering innovative perspectives for the circular bioeconomy and industrial processes requiring enzymes that function under harsh, non-conventional conditions.

Keywords: Algerian Sebkha, extremozymes, API ZYM, industrial biotechnology, poly-extremophily.

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