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Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel hyphomycetous fungi on medicinal plants in Southwestern China

Summary

Researchers discovered 12 new types of fungi living on medicinal plants in Southwest China. These fungi were identified by examining their physical characteristics under a microscope and analyzing their genetic sequences. This discovery helps scientists better understand what kinds of fungi exist on healing plants and may help improve the quality control of traditional Chinese herbal medicines.

Background

Medicinal plants are crucial resources for human health, with over 70% of the global population relying on them for disease prevention and treatment. The quality of medicinal plants is influenced by various factors including fungal pathogens and endophytes. Understanding the relationships between medicinal plants and associated microfungi remains an important research focus.

Objective

To investigate the taxonomy and phylogeny of hyphomycetous fungi from medicinal plants in Southwestern China, with focus on the families Dictyosporiaceae, Melanommataceae, and Stachybotryaceae. The study aims to expand understanding of fungal diversity within these specialized niches and provide insights for quality assurance of Chinese herbal medicines.

Results

Thirty-nine hyphomycetous collections representing 19 distinct species were identified. Twelve novel species were described including Camposporium alangii, C. polygoni, Dendryphiella verrucosispora, Jalapriya cheirospora, and five Memnoniella species. Additionally, three new host records and four new hosts with geographical records were reported, with Memnoniella nilagirica synonymised under M. pseudonilagirica.

Conclusion

This study provides comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic evidence for 12 new fungal species from medicinal plants. The findings represent the first report of these species from medicinal plants and contribute to expanding knowledge of fungal diversity associated with medicinal flora in China, supporting quality assurance efforts for herbal medicines.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Survey,
  • Source: PMID: 40937139, DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2444436
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