MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Redefining Microascus, Scopulariopsis and Allied Genera

Summary

This research provides a comprehensive revision of important fungal genera that include species found in our everyday environment and some that can cause infections in humans. The study helps mycologists and medical professionals better understand and identify these fungi. Impacts on everyday life: – Improved identification of potentially harmful fungi in indoor environments – Better diagnosis and treatment of fungal infections in humans – Enhanced understanding of fungal diversity in soil and plant materials – More accurate classification of fungi important for environmental monitoring – Better assessment of potential health risks from fungal exposure

Background

The genera Microascus and Scopulariopsis comprise species commonly isolated from soil, decaying plant material and indoor environments. Some species are recognized as opportunistic pathogens of insects and animals, including humans. Historically, the taxonomy of these fungi has been based solely on morphology.

Objective

To clarify the taxonomy and phylogeny of Microascus, Scopulariopsis and allied genera through a comprehensive study of clinical and environmental isolates using morphological, physiological and molecular analyses. Species delineation was assessed using DNA sequence data of four loci under the Genealogical Phylogenetic Species Recognition criterion.

Results

The genera Microascus and Scopulariopsis were found to be separated into two distinct lineages. The genus Pithoascus was reinstated and a new genus Pseudoscopulariopsis was erected. Seven new species of Microascus and one of Scopulariopsis were described. Microascus trigonosporus var. macrosporus was elevated to species status. Nine new combinations were introduced. Several species were neotypified including Microascus cinereus, M. longirostris, P. schumacheri and S. flava.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that Microascus and Scopulariopsis constitute two phylogenetically distant lineages, distinct from Pithoascus and the newly proposed genus Pseudoscopulariopsis. The boundaries of these genera were reassessed based on both molecular and morphological data, leading to revised taxonomic circumscriptions and several new species descriptions.
  • Published in:Persoonia,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: 10.3767/003158516X688027
Scroll to Top