A Master's thesis in the Department of Ecology at the College of Science, University of Basra, investigated the diversity and prevalence of contaminating fungi in certain types of nuts and their production of mycotoxins.

The thesis, submitted by student Saja Akab Yousef, aimed to study the fungal communities contaminating certain types of nuts in different areas of Basra Governorate and their potential to produce mycotoxins.

The thesis included isolating fungi from various types of nuts, identifying these fungi morphologically and genetically, and then studying the fungal communities to determine the ability of these fungi to produce mycotoxins.

The thesis recommended conducting further studies on mycotoxins in different types of nuts, ensuring that nuts are stored in dry conditions, using paper bags and clean storage containers, and conducting periodic tests to detect fungal contamination.