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New Species of Ascomycetes from Two Hypersaline Endorheic Lagoon Complexes in Zaragoza Province (Aragon Community, Spain)

Summary

Scientists discovered three new species of fungi living in extremely salty lagoons in Spain. These fungi were identified using both traditional microscopy and DNA analysis. The research also reorganized how some existing fungi are classified scientifically. This study helps us better understand the hidden microbial life in salt lakes around the world.

Background

Hypersaline endorheic lagoons are fragile ecosystems in closed basins sensitive to climate change. While archaeal and bacterial communities in such environments have been studied, the fungal composition remains largely unexplored. This study focuses on fungi inhabiting two Spanish hypersaline lagoon complexes: Salada Grande de Chiprana and La Playa.

Objective

To improve understanding of fungal biodiversity in hypersaline endorheic lagoons using culture-dependent techniques and polyphasic taxonomy. The study aimed to identify novel fungal species and determine their phylogenetic relationships using morphological and molecular analysis.

Results

Three new fungal species were identified: Montagnula globospora, M. terricola, and Monosporascus auratispora. Additionally, Herpotrichia striatispora was transferred to Montagnula as M. striatispora, and Montagnula jonesii was reclassified to the new genus Neomontagnula as N. jonesii. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the novel species and new genus.

Conclusion

The study reveals previously unknown fungal diversity in hypersaline lagoons, with three new Ascomycetes species described and significant taxonomic revisions proposed. These findings enhance understanding of fungal biodiversity in extreme environments and contribute to the characterization of extremophilic fungi.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof11020139; PMID: 39997433
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