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Soil ascomycetes from Spain. XIV. The Chaetomiaceae of La Palma (Canary Islands)

Summary

Researchers collected soil samples from volcanic areas in La Palma, Canary Islands, and discovered a rich diversity of fungi belonging to the Chaetomiaceae family. They identified several previously unknown fungal species and three entirely new fungal genera, expanding our understanding of fungal life in volcanic environments. This discovery highlights that volcanic soils harbor unique microbial communities adapted to extreme conditions, with potential implications for understanding fungal ecology and evolution.

Background

The Canary Islands represent a biogeographically unique region with diverse microclimates and volcanic soils. Despite considerable research on plant and animal biodiversity, fungal diversity remains comparatively understudied. This study builds on ongoing investigations of soil-borne ascomycetes in the Canary Islands, focusing on the family Chaetomiaceae from La Palma Island.

Objective

The primary objective was to investigate the biodiversity of soil ascomycetes, particularly members of the family Chaetomiaceae, from volcanic soils of La Palma Island using both general and semi-selective isolation techniques and applying a polyphasic taxonomic approach for phylogenetic placement and identification.

Results

The study identified seven previously recorded Chaetomiaceae species as first documented occurrences in volcanic soils, including Achaetomium aegilopsis, Canariomyces arenarius, and Pseudohumicola alba. Additionally, three new genera (Oidiosporium, Phaeohyphomyces, and Steirochaetomium) and nine new species were described, emphasizing the prevalence of Chaetomiaceae members in La Palma’s volcanic soils.

Conclusion

Volcanic soils of La Palma Island represent important reservoirs of novel micromycetes, particularly members of Chaetomiaceae. The study demonstrates the significance of applying multiple isolation methodologies to reveal fungal diversity in specialized soil ecosystems and establishes the foundation for further mycological investigations in the Canary Islands.
  • Published in:Persoonia,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Survey and Description Study,
  • Source: 10.3114/persoonia.2025.54.03; PMID: 40746711
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