molecular taxonomy – mycolab.ai

First Report of Ganoderma ryvardenii causing Basal Stem Rot (BSR) disease on oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) in Ghana

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Oil palm is a valuable crop, but a fungal disease called basal stem rot (BSR) causes serious damage and economic losses. Researchers in Ghana discovered that a fungus species called Ganoderma ryvardenii is causing BSR disease on oil palms, marking the first time this pathogen has been found in West Africa. The study used modern genetic testing to identify the fungus and proved it causes the disease by infecting oil palm seedlings in controlled conditions.

Hidden treasures of herbaria – even small collections contain a wealth of diversity: the powdery mildews of the North Carolina State Larry F. Grand Mycological Herbarium

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Scientists examined preserved powdery mildew samples stored in a university herbarium and discovered four previously unknown fungal species using DNA analysis. The study shows that even small museum collections contain valuable hidden biodiversity that cannot be discovered through visual examination alone. This research highlights why it is important to preserve and maintain herbarium collections rather than discard them due to space or funding constraints, as they serve as crucial resources for understanding fungal diversity and disease.

Multi-locus phylogenetic network analysis of Ampelomyces mycoparasites isolated from diverse powdery mildews in Australia and the generation of two de novo genome assemblies

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Scientists discovered and studied 20 new species of a beneficial fungus called Ampelomyces that naturally attacks powdery mildew, a common plant disease found in Australia. They created detailed genetic maps of two of these fungal strains to better understand how they work as biological control agents. This research could help develop better natural ways to protect crops like grapes and vegetables from powdery mildew without using chemical pesticides.

Two Novel Exophiala Species Isolated from Galls on the Chinese Magnolia-Vine (Schisandra Chinensis) in Korea

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Scientists in Korea discovered two previously unknown types of black yeast fungi living inside galls (abnormal growths) on Chinese magnolia vines caused by tiny gall midge insects. Using genetic testing and microscopic examination, they identified these as entirely new species of fungi. These fungi appear to have beneficial relationships with their host plants, potentially helping them grow better and resist environmental stress. This discovery adds to our understanding of the diverse fungal species in Korea and their interactions with plants and insects.

Seimatosporium chinense, a Novel Pestalotioid Fungus Associated with Yellow Rose Branch Canker Disease

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Researchers identified a new fungal disease affecting ornamental yellow roses in China. The disease causes branch cankers (sunken lesions) and was caused by a previously unknown fungus species named Seimatosporium chinense. By examining the fungus under microscopes and analyzing its DNA, scientists distinguished this new species from similar fungi. This discovery helps understand and manage diseases affecting ornamental rose plants.

Onygenales from marine sediments: diversity, novel taxa, global distribution, and adaptability to the marine environment

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Researchers discovered 22 different species of fungi living in marine sediments off the coast of Spain, including 6 previously unknown species. These fungi have special adaptations allowing them to survive in salty seawater and break down complex organic materials. The findings expand our understanding of fungal life in ocean environments and reveal how these organisms contribute to marine nutrient cycles.

Four Unrecorded Species of Endophytic Diaporthe (Sordariomycetes) in Korea

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Researchers in Korea discovered four types of fungi living inside plants without causing harm, called endophytic fungi. These fungi belong to a genus called Diaporthe and were identified using DNA analysis and microscopic examination. The study helps us understand the hidden diversity of fungi living in Korean plants and could lead to discovering new medicines or ways to control plant diseases.

Phylogenetic diversity of Colletotrichum species (Sordariomycetes, Glomerellales, Glomerellaceae) associated with plant diseases in Thailand

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Researchers identified eight species of Colletotrichum fungi causing plant diseases in Thailand. They discovered two completely new species and found these fungi on 13 additional plant hosts previously unknown. Using DNA analysis, they confirmed the identity of each fungal species and documented their characteristics. This work helps farmers and scientists better identify and manage these damaging plant pathogens.

Morphological and phylogenetic evidence reveals three new arthropod-associated species of Hypocreales (Clavicipitaceae, Bionectriaceae, and Myrotheciomycetaceae) from karst habitats in Guizhou, China

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Scientists discovered three new species of fungi living on arthropods (insects and spiders) in the karst limestone regions of Guizhou, China. These fungi were identified using both traditional microscopy and modern DNA analysis. The findings add to our understanding of fungal diversity in these unique and threatened ecosystems, and researchers also determined that two previously separated fungal genera should actually be classified as one.

Two new species and a new host record of Hyphomycetes associated with decaying wood in Yunnan Province, China

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Researchers studying fungi in Yunnan Province, China discovered two new species of fungi (Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense) that grow on decaying wood in streams and lakes. They also found that a known fungal species, Sporidesmium tropicale, can grow on Yunnan pine trees, expanding its known host range. By combining traditional microscopy with modern DNA analysis, scientists confirmed the identity and evolutionary relationships of these fungi within the Sporidesmiaceae family.

Research Keyword: molecular taxonomy