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Acremonium quercivorum (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes), a New Species from Oak (Quercus spp.) Growing in Algeria

Summary

Scientists discovered a new fungal species called Acremonium quercivorum infecting oak trees in Algeria. Using DNA analysis and microscopic examination, researchers confirmed it is a distinct species different from similar fungi. This fungus is associated with oak tree decline and represents an addition to known fungal biodiversity. The findings help improve understanding of forest health and fungal diversity in North Africa.

Background

Acremonium is a cosmopolitan genus of filamentous fungi commonly isolated from soil and plant material. Species within this genus are recognized as opportunistic pathogens in both plants and humans. Oak forest dieback represents a significant ecological concern requiring identification of associated fungal pathogens.

Objective

To isolate and characterize Acremonium strains from declining oak trees in Algeria and determine their phylogenetic placement using multi-locus DNA analysis. To formally describe a novel Acremonium species associated with oak dieback in North Africa.

Results

Two isolates (CBS 152796 and CBS 152581) were identified and formed a distinct subclade separate from A. egyptiacum with 100% bootstrap support. The new species showed 95-99% sequence similarity to A. egyptiacum but differed morphologically with smaller conidia (4.1-6.6 × 1.9-3.1 µm) and distinctive subulate phialides with thin apices. Acremonium quercivorum was formally described with comprehensive morphological and molecular characterization.

Conclusion

Acremonium quercivorum represents a novel fungal species associated with oak decline in Algeria, distinct from closely related A. egyptiacum through phylogenetic and morphological analyses. This description contributes to fungal biodiversity knowledge and provides reference data for future Acremonium research. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the species’ pathogenic potential and ecological role in oak forest ecosystems.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Descriptive Mycological Study,
  • Source: 10.1080/12298093.2025.2550068, PMID: 40904480
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