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Three new species of Talaromyces sect. Talaromyces discovered in China

Summary

Scientists in China discovered three new species of Talaromyces fungi in soil samples using a combination of physical observation and genetic analysis. These fungi are important because they help break down plant material, produce useful enzymes for industry, and create compounds with potential medical value. The research adds to our understanding of fungal diversity and demonstrates how traditional isolation methods remain crucial for discovering new microorganisms and their applications.

Background

Talaromyces species play important roles in nutrient cycling in natural ecosystems, plant biomass degradation in industries, and have medical implications. However, the species diversity of this genus is still far from fully understood. The genus currently includes about 208 species resolved into eight sections, with sect. Talaromyces being the largest containing approximately 90 species.

Objective

To discover and propose new Talaromyces species isolated from soil samples in China using polyphasic taxonomic approach. The study aimed to integrate morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on four genetic loci (BenA, CaM, Rpb2, and ITS sequences) to establish new species.

Results

Three new Talaromyces species of sect. Talaromyces were proposed: T. disparis (ex-type AS3.26221), T. funiformis (ex-type AS3.26220), and T. jianfengicus (ex-type AS3.26253). T. disparis is phylogenetically unique with low growth rate and polymorphic conidia. T. funiformis belongs to the T. pinophilus complex and produces mycelial funicles. T. jianfengicus belongs to the T. verruculosus complex with elm-green conidia and verrucose walls. All three species were supported by both morphological distinctiveness and phylogenetic analyses.

Conclusion

The polyphasic taxonomy approach successfully established three novel Talaromyces species based on integrated morphological and phylogenetic evidence. This work contributes to understanding Talaromyces species diversity in China and demonstrates the continued importance of isolation and characterization of pure cultures for expanding knowledge of fungal biological resources and their potential applications.
  • Published in:PeerJ,
  • Study Type:Descriptive Study,
  • Source: DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18253, PMID: 39403189
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