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

Summary

Scientists discovered that conifer tree resins, which protect trees from damage and infections, contain more fungi than previously known. In Polish forests, researchers identified seven fungal strains from resin samples, including two completely new species. These specialized fungi can survive in the harsh, toxic environment of tree resins, revealing that this unique habitat is far more diverse than scientists realized.

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 hostile conditions, they are colonized by specialized fungi called resinicolous fungi, which constitute a poorly explored group within the fungal kingdom.

Objective

To provide detailed identification of seven fungal strains assigned to the family Nectriaceae isolated from resin samples in Poland using morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 sequences.

Results

Seven strains representing four species in three genera of Nectriaceae were identified. Two new species including a new genus (Pulchrospora resinae gen. et sp. nov. and Cosmospora elegans sp. nov.) were described. Known species Cosmospora viridescens and Cosmosporella pruni were isolated from resin substrate for the first time.

Conclusion

This study extends knowledge about Nectriaceae ecology and resinicolous fungal diversity. Four Nectriaceae species are reported from resin for the first time, indicating that conifer resins support greater taxonomic diversity than previously documented. The findings suggest that plant resins represent a significant but understudied ecological niche warranting increased scientific attention.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description and Phylogenetic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.113.140446, PMID: 39980719
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