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Resin outpourings on conifers are inhabited by more members of Nectriaceae (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes) than previously thought

Summary

Scientists discovered that tree resins from pine and fir trees host more fungi than previously known. This research identified two newly described fungi species, including an entirely new genus, living in these resinous tree wounds. The study shows that despite resins being toxic to most microorganisms, specialized fungi have adapted to thrive in this unique environment. This discovery expands our understanding of fungal diversity and how organisms adapt to extreme habitats in nature.

Background

Resin outpourings on conifers are unique habitats composed of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and resin acids that are recalcitrant to microbial decomposition and exhibit antimicrobial properties. Despite these harsh conditions, they are colonized by resinicolous fungi, which constitute a poorly explored group of the fungal kingdom. The family Nectriaceae is known to include some resinicolous taxa, though they remain vaguely documented.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and characterize resinicolous fungi from resin samples collected in Poland by conducting detailed morphological and multilocus phylogenetic analyses. The research sought to expand knowledge about Nectriaceae members associated with conifer resins.

Results

Phylogenetic and morphological analyses identified four species belonging to three genera of Nectriaceae: Cosmospora elegans (new species), Pulchrospora resinae (new genus and species), Cosmospora viridescens, and Cosmosporella pruni. The two known species were isolated from resin substrate for the first time, expanding the documented resinicolous habitat range for these taxa.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that resin outpourings are more inhabited by Nectriaceae members than previously thought, with the discovery of a new genus and species. The findings expand understanding of resinicolous fungal ecology and highlight the importance of continued investigation into these specialized microorganisms inhabiting unique natural habitats.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Descriptive Mycological Study,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.113.140446
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