fungal diversity – Page 8

mGem: Submarine mycology—an analog to astromycology

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Scientists are studying fungi in submarines to better understand fungal health risks for astronauts in space. Both submarines and spacecraft are enclosed environments where fungi can grow, causing infections and other health problems. The same types of fungi found growing in submarines have been detected on the International Space Station. By learning from decades of submarine research, space agencies can better prepare for and prevent fungal-related health issues during long space missions.

Effects of food waste mulch on the physicochemical quality and fungal community diversities of desert soil in Southeast Iran

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Researchers tested whether mulch made from food waste could improve desert soil in Iran. They mixed food waste with clay and water, then spread it on desert plots over five months. The mulch significantly increased organic matter and beneficial fungi in the soil, helping to stabilize the desert sand and potentially reduce both food waste and soil erosion. This approach could provide a sustainable solution for desert regions worldwide.

High-Resolution Melting assays development for discrimination of fungal pathogens causing Grapevine Trunk Diseases

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Researchers developed quick and affordable DNA tests to identify fungal diseases in grapevines before they show visible symptoms. Using a technique called High-Resolution Melting, the tests can detect ten different disease-causing fungi that damage grape plants. These early detection tools help vineyard owners treat infected plants faster and save money on crop losses.

The subfamily Chalciporoideae (Boletaceae, Boletales) in China

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Researchers conducted a comprehensive study of a group of small fungi called Chalciporoideae found throughout China. They discovered four new species and confirmed the presence of 16 different species total using both physical characteristics and DNA analysis. Some of these fungi have interesting properties, like being edible or having potential for mushroom farming. The study provides detailed descriptions and identification keys to help scientists and enthusiasts identify these fungi in the future.

Five New Hypocrealean Species from Algae and Sediment in the Intertidal Zones of China

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Scientists discovered five new types of fungi living in the ocean and sandy/muddy shores of China. These fungi were found in seaweed and seafloor sediments and were identified using both traditional microscopy and modern genetic analysis. The study shows that ocean environments in China likely contain many more species of fungi than previously documented. These fungi have various ecological roles including breaking down organic matter, and some species in related groups are being studied for uses in food production, medicine, and pest control.

New species and records of ascomycetes on cypress in Beijing, China

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Researchers in Beijing investigated fungal diseases affecting cypress trees, which are important for landscaping and have medicinal value. They collected samples from diseased and healthy cypress parts and identified 13 different fungal species, including two completely new species and two species previously unknown on cypress trees. The study helps us understand the various fungi living on cypress trees, both harmful pathogens and potentially beneficial endophytic fungi that may have useful medicinal properties.

Geographic variation in fungal diversity associated with leaf spot symptoms of Coffea arabica in Yunnan, China

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Researchers studied the fungi found on coffee leaf spots in two different regions of Yunnan province in China. They discovered that the types of fungi varied significantly between the cooler, higher-altitude Pu’er region (which had more harmful fungi) and the warmer, tropical Xishuangbanna region (which had more beneficial fungi that could fight pests). This information can help coffee farmers choose better disease management strategies based on their location.

Two novel species of Neomonodictys and Phaeoisaria (Pleurotheciaceae, Pleurotheciales) from freshwater habitats in China

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Scientists discovered two new species of fungi living on submerged wood in freshwater streams in Guizhou Province, China. These fungi, named Neomonodictys subtropicus and Phaeoisaria guiyangensis, belong to the Pleurotheciaceae family and help break down dead plant material in freshwater ecosystems. The researchers used DNA analysis and microscopic examination to identify and formally describe these previously unknown fungi.

Myco-Ed: Mycological curriculum for education and discovery

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Myco-Ed is an educational program that teaches students about fungi while helping scientists discover new fungal species. Students collect fungi from their environment, learn laboratory and computing skills, and send samples to be sequenced to create reference genomes. This program both trains the next generation of fungal experts and expands our understanding of fungal diversity, which is important for medicine, agriculture, and the environment.

Research Keyword: fungal diversity