A simple preservation method for the storage of Aspergillus fumigatus and Scedosporium apiospermum filamentous fungi isolated from the sputum of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF)

A novel method is described for the laboratory storage of the filamentous fungi, Aspergillus fumigants and Scedosporium apiospermum. These fungi were isolated directly from the sputum of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) on previously described Medium B+ fungal selective agar. Medium B+ plates containing heavy growths of filamentous fungi were air dried to completeness and the resulting dehydrated agar containing fungi were hermetically sealed within A(4) plastic lamination sheets using a domestic paper laminator. Fungi were successfully recovered and recultured post lamination. This method is simple, inexpensive, versatile and widely adaptable and requires minimum preparation/handling/processing, thereby encouraging the routine archiving of fungal isolates. Laminated fungal sheets may be catalogued and stored safely and securely in fireproof lockable filing cabinets in laboratories, thereby saving valuable bench- or freezer space.