Candida yeasts are prevalent in nature, environment, food, fermentation and human health. Over 200 Candida species are identified, most of them beneficial. Candida albicans is the microbe responsible for yeast infections.
Candida spp. are a varied group of yeasts found in many settings, including soil, plants, and the human body. They contribute to ecosystem health, in vital processes like nutrient cycling and decomposition.
Candida species are instrumental in food and beverage fermentation, such as producing beer and wine. Yeasts convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, and are considered domesticated since Neolithic times.
Yeasts interact with other microorganisms, for example lactic acid bacteria in fermented milk products. A 2019 study of traditional yogurt isolates 16 species of Candida and Saccharomyces from Pakistan yogurt samples.
It's also friendly with acetic acid bacteria, who consume the alcohol it produces to make acetic acid, the prime factor in vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is made in two ferment stages: yeast in anaerobic conditions, and acetic acid bacteria in aerobic.
In nature, yeasts like Candida help break down organic matter, releasing nutrients to plants and other organisms. Decomposition is necessary for soil health and prolific crop and garden yields.
Not surprisingly Candida is a common inhabitant of the compost heap. Without these microorganisms, waste accumulates and plants receive no nourishment.
Soil: Many Candida species contribute to the decomposition of organic matter in soil, breaking down complex compounds and releasing nutrients that are essential for plant growth. This recycling process is fundamental to healthy ecosystems.
Plants: Some Candida species live harmoniously on plant surfaces, such as leaves and fruits, participating in fermentation of sugars and contributing to aroma and flavor development.
Insects: Candida yeasts are frequently found in the innards of insects, where they help digestion and improve uptake of essential nutrients. This symbiotic relationship is important to survival of many insect species.
Aquatic Environments: From freshwater lakes to marine ecosystems, Candida yeasts are active in nutrient cycling and the breakdown of organic pollutants.
Certain Candida species can inhabit extreme environments, such as highly acidic soils and areas contaminated by heavy metals.
Bioremediation: Candida species are explored for their potential in environmental cleanup, or bioremediation. Like the popular Saccharomyces cerevisiae, these yeasts may be engineered for certain skills.
Scientists modify Candida strains with enhanced bioremediation abilities, in hopes of finding efficient and sustainable solutions for environmental destruction.
Pollutant Degradation: Some Candida species can break down harmful pollutants, such as petroleum hydrocarbons and pesticides, transforming them into less toxic substances.
Heavy Metal Removal: Certain Candida strains can bind to heavy metals, effectively removing them from contaminated water and soil. This helps reduce the risk of these toxic metals entering the food chain.
Waste Management: Candida yeasts are used to treat organic waste, reducing its volume and converting it into products like biofuels or animal feed.
Candida and Human Health
Digestive Microbiota: Some Candida species are naturally present in the human GI tract. Experts believe a healthy population of Candida contributes to production of B vitamins.
Competitive Exclusion: Some non-albicans Candida species may compete with C. albicans for resources, potentially helping to prevent overgrowth.
Probiotic Potential: Research explores probiotic potential of some Candida species.
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