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Novel genus and species of Diaporthostomataceae (Diaporthales) in China

Summary

Researchers discovered a new genus of fungi called Tiania with three new species in Chinese forests. These fungi cause branch canker and leaf spot diseases on oak and stone oak trees. The study used DNA analysis and microscopy to identify and describe these rare fungi, which had never been fully documented before.

Background

Diaporthales is a significant fungal order comprising species that inhabit plant tissues as pathogens, endophytes, and saprobes. Recent studies have uncovered extensive species diversity using both morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The family Diaporthostomataceae is a rare fungal group previously known only from a single genus and species.

Objective

To identify and describe newly collected diaporthalean species from China exhibiting branch canker and leaf spot symptoms through morphological and molecular phylogenetic approaches. The study aimed to elucidate the phylogenetic relationships of these fungi within Diaporthales and provide the first descriptions of anamorphic forms of Diaporthostomataceae.

Results

A novel genus Tiania is proposed within Diaporthostomataceae with three newly described species: T. chinensis, T. lithocarpicola, and T. quercicola. These species are distinguished by morphological characteristics including conidial shape and size, and are phylogenetically validated as distinct lineages. The study provides the first detailed descriptions of both teleomorphic and anamorphic forms for the family.

Conclusion

This research expands the known diversity of the rare family Diaporthostomataceae and provides a foundation for future taxonomic and systematic studies of Diaporthales. The detailed morphological and molecular data for the new genus and species contribute significantly to understanding fungal biodiversity in forest ecosystems of China.
  • Published in:IMA Fungus,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: 10.3897/imafungus.16.145422, PMID: 40093758
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