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Genome sequences of three genetic lineages of the fungus Nothophaeocryptopus gaeumannii, the causal agent of Swiss needle cast on Douglas-fir trees

Summary

Researchers sequenced the complete genomes of three different genetic strains of a fungus that causes Swiss needle cast, a disease affecting Douglas-fir trees in the Pacific Northwest. These fungal strains differ in their ability to adapt to different environmental conditions. The high-quality genome information will help scientists understand why these strains are different and how they might spread under changing climate conditions.

Background

Swiss needle cast is an emerging disease affecting Douglas-fir trees in the Pacific Northwest of North America, caused by the fungus Nothophaeocryptopus gaeumannii. Multiple genetically distinct lineages of this pathogen have been identified with different environmental adaptations and climatic suitability.

Objective

To generate nearly complete genome sequences for the three main genetic lineages of N. gaeumannii to enable comparative studies of factors related to ecology, adaptation, environmental tolerance, and competitive ability of these lineages.

Results

Three nearly complete genome assemblies were generated ranging from 35.47-35.59 Mb with high completeness (99.74-99.87% BUSCO). The genomes were assembled into 42-61 contigs with N50 values of 1.67-2.70 Mb, slightly larger than a previously available reference genome.

Conclusion

These high-quality genome sequences will enable comparative genomic studies to identify factors underlying the ecological adaptation and environmental tolerance differences among the three lineages of N. gaeumannii.
  • Published in:Microbiology Resource Announcements,
  • Study Type:Genomic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1128/mra.01008-23, PMID: 38265221
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