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New species and records of ascomycetes on cypress in Beijing, China

Summary

Researchers in Beijing investigated fungal diseases affecting cypress trees, which are important for landscaping and have medicinal value. They collected samples from diseased and healthy cypress parts and identified 13 different fungal species, including two completely new species and two species previously unknown on cypress trees. The study helps us understand the various fungi living on cypress trees, both harmful pathogens and potentially beneficial endophytic fungi that may have useful medicinal properties.

Background

Cypress species belonging to the Cupressaceae family are widely utilized in Chinese landscaping and have considerable economic and medicinal importance. In recent years, dieback of branches and foliage in cypress has been widespread in the Ming Tombs area of Beijing. However, the associated ascomycetous fungi remain largely unidentified, necessitating further investigation.

Objective

To investigate the species of ascomycetes associated with three cypress species (Juniperus chinensis, J. procumbens, and Platycladus orientalis) in the Ming Tombs area of Beijing and identify fungal isolates from withered branches, diseased leaves, healthy strobili, and mature cones through integrated morphological and phylogenetic analyses.

Results

Based on integrated morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, the 22 fungal strains were identified as 13 fungal species belonging to 8 genera. Two novel species were described: Nigrospora platycladiensis sp. nov. and Spegazzinia juniperi sp. nov. Two new host records were reported: Aplosporella hesperidica and Nigrospora philosophiae-doctoris on Platycladus orientalis.

Conclusion

This study contributes significantly to understanding the richness and diversity of ascomycetes associated with cypress trees in Beijing. The identification of new species and host records expands knowledge of cypress-associated fungi beyond previously documented pathogenic groups, including endophytic and saprophytic fungi with potential bioactive properties.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41140787, DOI: 10.3897/mycokeys.123.165848
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