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Taxonomic revision of Bisifusarium (Nectriaceae)

Summary

Scientists have identified and formally named 8 new species of Bisifusarium, a genus of fungi found in cheese, soil, and some human infections. Using genetic analysis and careful observation of fungal structures, researchers studied 116 fungal samples collected from around the world. This work more than doubled the known number of Bisifusarium species from 16 to over 24, providing clearer identification methods for future research in food science and medicine.

Background

Bisifusarium species are fusarioid fungi previously classified as part of the Fusarium dimerum species complex. These fungi are associated with cheese fermentation, opportunistic human infections, and are commonly isolated from soils and plant tissues in arid climates. Only 16 Bisifusarium species had been formally described prior to this study.

Objective

This study aimed to re-evaluate 116 Bisifusarium isolates from the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute using multi-gene phylogenetic analysis and morphological examination. The goal was to resolve the diversity within the genus and formally describe novel taxa.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis resolved 25 phylogenetic lineages within Bisifusarium. Eight novel species were formally described based on phylogenetic and morphological data, significantly increasing the known diversity of the genus. Two putative novel species were identified but not formally described due to limited data. Morphological descriptions and illustrations were provided for B. hedylamarriae and B. lovelliae, previously known only from DNA data.

Conclusion

This taxonomic revision substantially expands Bisifusarium species diversity from 16 to 24+ formally recognized species. The comprehensive morphological and genetic characterization provides a foundation for understanding the ecology and evolutionary relationships within this genus and facilitates future identification of Bisifusarium species in clinical, agricultural, and food industry applications.
  • Published in:Persoonia,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Revision,
  • Source: 10.3114/persoonia.2025.54.06
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