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Scytalidium terrigenum sp. nov., a New Species Isolated from Soil in Korea

Summary

Scientists in Korea discovered a new fungal species called Scytalidium terrigenum living in soil. They identified it by comparing its physical characteristics, such as its color and structure, with genetic information. The fungus can grow in acidic conditions and cold temperatures. This discovery expands our understanding of fungi in Korea and could lead to finding useful compounds from this species for medicine or industry.

Background

The genus Scytalidium comprises approximately 30 recognized fungal species found in diverse environments including soil, wood, mushrooms, and human hosts. During an investigation of soil microfungi in Korea, a fungal strain designated KNUF-23-236 was isolated from soil in Seocheon-gun, Chungcheongnam-do. Molecular analysis revealed phylogenetic relationships with Scytalidium aurantiacum and Scytalidium album.

Objective

To characterize and identify a novel Scytalidium species isolated from Korean soil through comprehensive morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The study aimed to determine if the strain KNUF-23-236 represents a distinct species within the genus Scytalidium.

Results

KNUF-23-236 showed 93.8-100% sequence similarity to related Scytalidium species but demonstrated distinct morphological characteristics including white-to-yellow colonies without reddish pigmentation, smaller hyphae (1.4-3.4 μm), and arthrospores transitioning from hyaline to brown. Phylogenetic analysis using ITS, ITS+LSU, and ITS+SSU+RPB2 sequences confirmed the strain occupies a distinct phylogenetic position within genus Scytalidium.

Conclusion

Based on combined phylogenetic and morphological evidence, strain KNUF-23-236 is identified as a novel species designated Scytalidium terrigenum sp. nov. The species exhibits ability to survive in acidic environments and at low temperatures (10°C), offering opportunities for bioactive compound research and biotechnological applications. This discovery contributes to expanding knowledge of indigenous Korean fungal diversity.
  • Published in:Mycobiology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description Study,
  • Source: 10.1080/12298093.2025.2479241, PMID: 40165911
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