Research Keyword: host specialization

Growth variation of an ambrosia fungus on different tree species indicates host specialization

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This research demonstrates that ambrosia fungi, which are cultivated by beetles as food sources, grow better on certain types of trees. The fungus studied, Dryadomyces montetyi, grows faster and denser on hardwood trees like oak and beech compared to conifer trees like fir and Douglas-fir. This suggests that the fungal symbiont has evolved preferences for the same tree types that its beetle partner prefers, indicating a specialized relationship shaped by millions of years of evolution.

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Genome assemblies for Pyricularia species and related genera isolated from diverse host plants

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Scientists have sequenced the complete genetic blueprints of 35 fungal strains belonging to Pyricularia species and related genera, which cause devastating blast diseases in crops like rice and wheat. By analyzing genetic differences between strains that infect different grass species, researchers found that most Pyricularia oryzae strains show strong preferences for specific host plants. These new genome resources will help scientists understand how fungal pathogens evolve and adapt to new plant hosts, potentially improving disease management strategies.

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Ambrosia gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) and their microbial symbionts as a neglected model of fungus-farming evolution

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Ambrosia gall midges are tiny insects that grow plants into special structures called galls where they farm fungi as food. These midges and their fungal partners have evolved a remarkable relationship where the fungi provide nutrition and protection while the midges help the fungi spread to new plants. This system offers scientists an excellent opportunity to study how insects and fungi can evolve together and influence each other’s evolution, with potential implications for understanding how new insect species form.

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Genomic insights reveal community structure and phylogenetic associations of endohyphal bacteria and viruses in fungal endophytes

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This study examined tiny bacteria and viruses living inside the filaments of fungi that colonize beech tree leaves. Researchers found that different types of bacteria show preferences for specific fungal groups, while viruses are less diverse and mostly DNA-based. Understanding these microscopic communities helps explain how fungi function and could eventually lead to using these organisms for controlling plant diseases.

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