Novel Species of Pestalotiopsis Fungi on Dracaena from Thailand

This research discovered and described a new species of fungus found on dead leaves of Dracaena plants in Thailand. The fungus, named Pestalotiopsis dracaenicola, was characterized using both physical features and DNA analysis to confirm it as a previously unknown species. This discovery helps expand our understanding of fungal diversity and plant-fungal relationships. Impacts on everyday life: • Contributes to understanding plant diseases that could affect ornamental Dracaena plants commonly used in homes and offices • Helps inform plant quarantine measures for international trade of ornamental plants • Advances knowledge of biodiversity that could lead to discovery of beneficial compounds • Assists in conservation efforts by documenting species before potential habitat loss • Improves understanding of plant-fungal relationships that could impact agriculture and horticulture