Chemical Composition of Cantharellus Species (Ero Umunwene) Newly Discovered in Ukwa-East, Abia State, Nigeria

Okigbo, R. N.^1*, Okigbo, J. E.¹ & Akpaja, E. O.²

¹Department of Botany, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
²Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria

Okigbo, R. N., Department of Botany, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.

Keywords: Mushrooms, Nigeria, Phytochemicals, Proximate, Minerals and Heavy Metals

Abstract

The investigation focused on the chemical components of a newly discovered mushroom (Cantharellus species) found in Ukwa-East, Abia State, Nigeria. Fresh mushrooms of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were harvested from bush around Ohanso in Ukwa-East Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Mushroom samples were prepared for spore printing which were used in identification and characterization. Samples were brushed to remove soil particles, dirt and were sun-dried which were used in quantitative estimation of the phytochemicals, proximate, minerals and nutrients determination of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene). Results revealed that the phytochemical constituents of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were Alkaloids (3.73mg/100g), Tannins (0.04mg/100g), Phenols (0.67mg/100g), Saponins (1.21mg/100g), and Flavonoids (7.25mg/100g). The results of proximate composition of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) include 16.92% Protein, 12.33?ts, 3.75% Fibre, 42.34?rbohydrate and 9.24% Ash. The nutrient and mineral compositions of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were Nitrate (4.10mg/10g), Nitrite (0.02mg/10g) and Sulphate (0.06mg/10g), Calcium (180.3mgkg^-1), Magnesium (84.2mgkg^-1), Potassium (202.4mgkg^-1), Sodium (53.1mgkg^-1), Phosphorus (80.41mgkg^-1), The investigation focused on the chemical components of a newly discovered mushroom (Cantharellus species) found in Ukwa-East, Abia State, Nigeria. Fresh mushrooms of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were harvested from bush around Ohanso in Ukwa-East Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Mushroom samples were prepared for spore printing which were used in identification and characterization. Samples were brushed to remove soil particles, dirt and were sun-dried which were used in quantitative estimation of the phytochemicals, proximate, minerals and nutrients determination of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene). Results revealed that the phytochemical constituents of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were Alkaloids (3.73mg/100g), Tannins (0.04mg/100g), Phenols (0.67mg/100g), Saponins (1.21mg/100g), and Flavonoids (7.25mg/100g). The results of proximate composition of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) include 16.92% Protein, 12.33?ts, 3.75% Fibre, 42.34?rbohydrate and 9.24% Ash. The nutrient and mineral compositions of Cantharellus species (Eroumunwene) were Nitrate (4.10mg/10g), Nitrite (0.02mg/10g) and Sulphate (0.06mg/10g), Calcium (180.3mgkg^-1), Magnesium (84.2mgkg^-1), Potassium (202.4mgkg^-1), Sodium (53.1mgkg^-1), Phosphorus (80.41mgkg^-1), Nitrogen (0.82mgkg^-1), Iron (321mgkg^-1), Zinc (31.2mgkg^-1), Copper (10.38mgkg^-1) and Manganese (11.53mgkg^-1). Heavy metal concentration indicated Nikel (0.33ppm) while Aluminum (Al) and Lead (Pb) were not detected. The results obtained indicate that Cantharellus species are good source of phytochemicals, proximate components and minerals. Consumption of Cantharellus could enhance good health in individuals. Heavy metal levels obtained indicate that the mushrooms are safe for consumption. However, further studies on its polysaccharide contents, toxicity and medicinal value are highly recommended.

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