molecular phylogenetics

Mitochondrial genome characterization, evolution and intron dynamics of the entomopathogenic genus Cordyceps

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This research examined the genetic instruction manuals (mitochondrial DNA) of seven different Cordyceps fungal species. Scientists found that these fungi have varying amounts of genetic material, primarily due to differences in introns—sections that can be inserted or removed from genes. By comparing their genomes, researchers clarified how different Cordyceps species are related to each other evolutionarily, providing better tools for identifying and classifying these medically valuable fungi.

Two new Cordyceps-like species, Perennicordyceps zongqii sp. nov. (Polycephalomycetaceae) and Purpureocillium zongqii sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae), in Hypocreales from karst region of China

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Scientists discovered two new types of specialized fungi in the karst regions of China that infect insects and live in soil. These fungi, named Perennicordyceps zongqii and Purpureocillium zongqii, were identified using genetic analysis and microscopic examination. The findings highlight how special cave and valley environments in karst regions support unique fungal species that haven’t been previously documented in these areas.

Ascoidea xinghuacunensis sp. nov., a novel ascomycetous yeast species from Xinghuacun Fenjiu old workshop, Shanxi province of China

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Scientists discovered a new type of yeast called Ascoidea xinghuacunensis from a traditional Chinese liquor-making workshop in Shanxi province. This yeast is special because it can tolerate higher temperatures (37°C) than other known yeasts of its type. The discovery is significant because it marks the first time this yeast genus has been found in China and the first time it has been identified in a liquor production environment.

Identification and potential of the hyperparasite Acremonium persicinum as biocontrol agent against coffee leaf rust

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Coffee farmers face major losses from rust disease, and traditional fungicide treatments have become less effective over time. Scientists in China discovered a microscopic fungus called Acremonium persicinum that naturally attacks and kills coffee rust pathogens. Laboratory tests showed this beneficial fungus could eliminate over 90% of rust spores and completely prevent rust infection on coffee leaves, offering a natural and environmentally-friendly solution for protecting coffee crops.

Two new species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) from Hainan Province, China

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Researchers discovered two new species of fungi called Neohelicomyces terrestris and Neohelicomyces tropicus in tropical rainforests in China’s Hainan Province. These microscopic fungi were found living on decaying wood and are identified using DNA analysis combined with microscopic examination. The findings expand our knowledge of fungal diversity in tropical environments and these fungi have potential to produce compounds with medical applications.

Two new species of Stilbochaeta (Chaetosphaeriaceae, Chaetosphaeriales) from freshwater and terrestrial habitats in China

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Scientists discovered two previously unknown species of fungi called Stilbochaeta in China. They used DNA analysis and microscopic examination to confirm these were new species distinct from known fungi. One species was found in a freshwater stream, while the other was discovered on decaying wood in a forest. This discovery increases the known diversity of these small fungi and shows how important it is to study different ecosystems around the world.

Three new species of Talaromyces sect. Talaromyces discovered in China

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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.

Morphological and Phylogenetic Characterization of Raffaelea xyleboricola sp. nov. from Xyleborus Beetles in Korea

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Researchers discovered a new fungal species living inside ambrosia beetles collected from Korean apple orchards. By examining the fungus under a microscope and analyzing its genetic material, they confirmed it was previously unknown to science. This fungus, named Raffaelea xyleboricola, may help scientists better manage beetle-related tree diseases and protect apple orchards.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of Tubeufia (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from freshwater habitats in China

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Scientists in China discovered two new species of fungi (Tubeufia yanuodaensis and T. yinggelingensis) living in freshwater streams on decaying wood. By examining the fungi under microscopes and analyzing their genetic material, the researchers were able to distinguish these new species from previously known ones. This discovery adds to our understanding of fungi diversity in freshwater ecosystems and brings the total number of known Tubeufia species to 88.

New insights into Cortinarius: Novel taxa from subtropical China

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Scientists studying mushroom diversity in subtropical China have discovered and formally named several new species of Cortinarius mushrooms, a type that forms beneficial relationships with forest trees. By examining the mushrooms’ physical characteristics and analyzing their DNA, researchers identified one new section, six completely new species, and several other previously undescribed forms. These findings demonstrate that subtropical China harbors remarkable fungal diversity that is still largely unknown to science, and more species are likely waiting to be discovered in this region’s forests.

Research Keyword: molecular phylogenetics