OBJECTIVETo determine the fungal populations in seven ochratoxin A contaminated root herbs in Jiangxi province, and investigate the mycoflora associated with mycotoxin contamination in the root herbs.

METHODSingle spore isolation was used to obtain the strains from root herb's surface. Fungi were identified according to morphology and molecular evidence.

RESULTSeventeen fungal species belonged to six isolated genera, nine species of Penicillium, three species of Aspergillus, two species of Fusarium and three other species were identified.

CONCLUSIONFungal contamination of root herbs demands urgent attention, ochratoxin A producing fungi possess specific distribution on herbs.