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Additions to Macgarvieomyces in Iran: Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Six New Species

Summary

Scientists discovered six new species of fungi in Iran that cause leaf spots on common wetland plants. By examining the fungi under microscopes and analyzing their genetic material, researchers were able to identify these previously unknown species and describe their characteristics. This discovery significantly increases our understanding of fungal diversity in Iran and shows how combining traditional observation with modern genetic analysis helps identify new organisms. These findings provide important information for future ecological and evolutionary studies of these fungi.

Background

The genus Macgarvieomyces comprises fungal species associated with leaf spots on plants in the Cyperaceae and Juncaceae families, previously known only from Europe and New Zealand with three recognized species. Iran hosts diverse ecosystems with varied vegetation, making it a promising region for fungal biodiversity surveys.

Objective

To identify and describe novel Macgarvieomyces species from Iran through comprehensive morphological characterization and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses. The study targeted host plants from Cyperaceae and Juncaceae families across multiple Iranian provinces to explore species diversity of this genus.

Results

Six novel Macgarvieomyces species were identified and described: M. caspica, M. cyperi, M. junci-acuti, M. juncigenus, M. salkadehensis, and M. schoeni. Phylogenetic analyses resolved distinct clades with high bootstrap support and posterior probability values. Morphological characteristics including conidiophore dimensions and conidial morphology distinguished the species, with some species producing chlamydospores or hyphopodia.

Conclusion

This work significantly expands the known diversity and geographic distribution of Macgarvieomyces, highlighting Iran as an important center for fungal diversity. The integration of morphological and molecular data proves essential for accurate species delineation and identifies cryptic species among closely related taxa, providing groundwork for future ecological and evolutionary studies.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Descriptive/Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40985393, DOI: 10.3390/jof11070489
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