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Multi-locus phylogenetic network analysis of Ampelomyces mycoparasites isolated from diverse powdery mildews in Australia and the generation of two de novo genome assemblies

Summary

Scientists discovered and studied 20 new species of a beneficial fungus called Ampelomyces that naturally attacks powdery mildew, a common plant disease found in Australia. They created detailed genetic maps of two of these fungal strains to better understand how they work as biological control agents. This research could help develop better natural ways to protect crops like grapes and vegetables from powdery mildew without using chemical pesticides.

Background

Ampelomyces mycoparasites are fungi that attack and feed on powdery mildew fungi, which are obligate biotrophic plant pathogens. These mycoparasites have been developed as biological control agents for economically important powdery mildews on grapes and some vegetables. To date, only one Ampelomyces strain from Australia has been available, with limited study of these organisms on the continent.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and characterize Ampelomyces strains from diverse powdery mildew species in Australia, determine their phylogenetic relationships using multi-locus analysis, and produce high-quality genome assemblies for genetically distinct Australian strains.

Results

The 21 Australian Ampelomyces strains belonged to four molecular taxonomic units (MOTUs) previously identified in Europe, North America, and elsewhere. Multi-locus phylogenetic network analysis revealed additional MOTUs (MOTU 3 split into MOTU 3 and MOTU 10). Two high-quality genome assemblies were generated: BRIP 72097 (33.45 Mb, 96.0% completeness) and BRIP 72102 (37.32 Mb, 95.9% completeness), both showing bipartite structure with AT-rich and GC-balanced regions.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates significant genetic diversity of Ampelomyces mycoparasites in Australia and provides high-quality genome resources for future investigations of mycoparasitic mechanisms and biocontrol applications. These new assemblies enable comparative genomics and functional analysis of the mycoparasitic lifestyle and tritrophic interactions.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Study with Genome Sequencing,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0322842, PMID: 41343545
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