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Species and ecological diversity within the Cladosporium cladosporioides complex

Summary

This research provides an in-depth analysis of a common group of fungi called Cladosporium, specifically focusing on species related to C. cladosporioides. Using both traditional microscopic examination and modern DNA analysis, the researchers discovered 22 new species within this group. This work helps us better understand fungal diversity and evolution. Impacts on everyday life: – Improved identification of fungi that can affect crops and stored food – Better understanding of fungi that commonly occur in indoor environments – Enhanced ability to identify potentially beneficial or harmful fungal species – More accurate diagnosis of plant diseases caused by these fungi – Better classification system for tracking fungal diversity and distribution

Background

Cladosporium is one of the largest genera of dematiaceous hyphomycetes, characterized by coronate scar structure, conidia in acropetal chains and Davidiella teleomorphs. Previous studies resolved the species complexes of C. herbarum and C. sphaerospermum, resulting in numerous new taxa. This study examines over 200 isolates belonging to the C. cladosporioides complex.

Objective

To examine and resolve the taxonomy of species within the Cladosporium cladosporioides complex using morphological and molecular methods, including DNA sequence analysis of the nuclear ribosomal RNA operon, actin and translation elongation factor 1-alpha genes.

Results

Twenty-two new species were described based on phylogenetic characters and cryptic morphological differences. The most important phenotypic characters for distinguishing species within the complex were shape, width, length, septation and surface ornamentation of conidia and conidiophores, length and branching patterns of conidial chains and hyphal shape, width and arrangement. Many of the treated species were found to be host-specific or have restricted geographical distributions.

Conclusion

The C. cladosporioides complex contains numerous cryptic species that can be distinguished through detailed morphological examination combined with molecular phylogenetic analysis. Several new species were described, many showing host specificity or geographic patterns. The study provides an updated taxonomy of this important fungal complex.
  • Published in:Studies in Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: 10.3114/sim.2010.67.01
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