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Identification and biological characteristics of Fusarium tobaccum sp. nov., a novel species causing tobacco root rot in Jilin Province, China

Summary

Scientists in China discovered a new type of fungus called Fusarium tobaccum that causes a serious disease in tobacco plants called root rot and wilt. By analyzing the fungus’s genetic material and physical characteristics, they confirmed it was a previously unknown species. The researchers also studied how this fungus grows under different conditions like temperature and soil pH to better understand how it causes disease.

Background

Fusarium wilt of tobacco (FWT) is a severe soilborne fungal disease caused by Fusarium spp. that threatens tobacco production globally. In China, FWT has been reported in multiple provinces with incidence rates ranging from 10-30%, reaching 100% in severe cases. Previous studies identified three Fusarium species complexes causing FWT in Jilin Province, but a novel pathogenic species had not been characterized.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and characterize a novel Fusarium species causing tobacco root rot in Jilin Province using multi-gene phylogenetic analyses and morphological characteristics. The research also extensively examined the biological features of this new species to gain comprehensive understanding of its properties.

Results

Seven isolates were identified as Fusarium tobaccum sp. nov., a novel species within the FOSC, distinguished from F. cugenangense, F. callistephi, and F. elaeidis. Optimal growth conditions were pH 7.1 and 23.6°C. Sucrose and NaNO3 significantly promoted mycelial growth, with PDA medium being optimal for total sporulation. All seven isolates demonstrated pathogenicity on tobacco with varying disease grades.

Conclusion

F. tobaccum sp. nov. is a novel Fusarium species causing FWT in Jilin Province. The identification based on multi-gene phylogenetic and morphological analyses establishes this as a distinct pathogen. The characterized biological properties provide valuable insights for understanding pathogenic mechanisms and developing control strategies for FWT.
  • Published in:Microbiology Spectrum,
  • Study Type:Descriptive/Characterization Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39540755
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