Mariannaea samuelsii Isolated from a Bark Beetle-Infested Elm Tree in Korea
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 2012-06-29
- View Source
Summary
This research identified a previously undiscovered fungal species in Korea that was found living in beetle-infested elm trees. The fungus, named Mariannaea samuelsii, can break down various wood components and may play a role in wood decomposition. This discovery helps scientists better understand the diversity of fungi in Korea and their potential roles in forest ecosystems.
Impacts on everyday life:
• Helps track the spread of wood-degrading fungi that could affect tree health
• Contributes to understanding forest ecosystem health and biodiversity
• Provides insight into natural wood decomposition processes
• May lead to discovery of new enzymes useful in biotechnology applications
Background
Mariannaea species are widespread fungi found in various environments including conifer tree leaves, decaying wood, freshwater streams, insect larva, and soil. Eight species have been reported in this genus. In Korea, M. elegans was previously reported in 2004 as an anamorph of Cordyceps pruinosa.
Objective
To identify and characterize a novel fungal isolate (DUCC401) obtained from bark beetle-infested elm wood in Korea through morphological, molecular, and biochemical analyses.
Results
Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of ITS and LSU sequences, isolate DUCC401 was identified as Mariannaea samuelsii. The fungus grew optimally at 25°C and pH 7.0, with faster growth on malt extract agar compared to other media. It demonstrated ability to degrade cellobiose, starch, and xylan.
Conclusion
This study represents the first report of Mariannaea samuelsii in Korea, isolated from elm wood infested with bark beetles. The fungus shows distinct morphological and molecular characteristics from related species and demonstrates capacity for degrading wood components.
- Published in:Mycobiology,
- Study Type:Laboratory Research,
- Source: 10.5941/MYCO.2012.40.2.94