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Complete mitochondrial genome of the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. palmarum responsible for fusarium wilt of palms

Summary

Scientists sequenced the complete genetic material found in the mitochondria of a fungus called Fusarium oxysporum that causes a disease in palm trees. This fungus, which was collected from a sick Mexican fan palm in Florida, destroys palm fronds and can kill the tree. By mapping out this genetic information, researchers now have a better tool to quickly identify and track this harmful pathogen, which will help protect ornamental palm trees.

Background

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. palmarum (FOP) is a fungal pathogen causing fusarium wilt of palms, a lethal disease affecting queen palms and Mexican fan palms. FOP is morphologically indistinguishable from other members of the F. oxysporum species complex, making identification challenging. Molecular tools have revolutionized fungal diagnostics, enabling accurate identification and detection of pathogens.

Objective

The mitochondrial genome of FOP was sequenced and analyzed to explore its utility in designing molecular diagnostics assays for this pathogen. The study aimed to characterize the complete mitochondrial genome of FOP isolate 249A collected from a diseased Mexican fan palm in Florida.

Results

The FOP mitogenome consists of a single circular chromosome of 47.3 kb with 32.3% GC content and 239× coverage. A total of 43 genes were predicted including 14 core protein-coding genes, 1 rRNA, 23 tRNA, and 5 ORFs. Two introns encoding homing endonucleases (GIY-YIG and LAGLIDADG) were identified in the cob and nad5 genes.

Conclusion

The complete mitochondrial genome of FOP has been successfully sequenced and characterized, providing a resource for developing molecular diagnostics assays. The presence of conserved core genes and unique intron features makes the mitogenome a valuable tool for species-level identification and monitoring of this palm pathogen.
  • Published in:Microbiology Resource Announcements,
  • Study Type:Genomic characterization study,
  • Source: 10.1128/mra.00070-25; PMID: 40492774
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