phylogenetic analysis – Page 12

A New Species and a New Record of Graphium from Freshwater Environment in Korea

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Researchers in Korea discovered two types of fungi from Graphium genus in freshwater rivers and streams. One was identified as Graphium carbonarium, previously unknown in Korea, while the other two isolates represent an entirely new species named Graphium aquaticum. This finding is significant because Graphium fungi were previously thought to live only on wood and in association with insects, making freshwater an unexpected and new habitat for these organisms.

Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp

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This research discovered that frogs have protective bacteria on their skin that can fight against harmful water molds called Saprolegnia. Scientists tested bacteria from different frog populations and found that certain types, especially Bacillus bacteria, could prevent the mold from growing. However, the bacteria’s protective ability depends on environmental conditions—they work better in nutrient-poor environments similar to natural ponds. This finding suggests that maintaining healthy environmental conditions is important for frogs to naturally resist these dangerous fungal infections.

Barcode high-resolution melting (Bar-HRM) analysis to authenticate true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) from its adulterants and contaminants

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This study developed a rapid and cost-effective DNA test to verify that cinnamon products are authentic true cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon) rather than cheaper substitutes. The test uses DNA barcoding and melting curve analysis to distinguish true cinnamon from three common adulterants and can also detect contamination with a toxic fungus. The method is particularly useful for processed cinnamon products like powder where traditional identification methods don’t work, helping protect consumers and maintain market integrity for authentic Sri Lankan cinnamon.

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.

First reported Canadian case of Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII infection among men who have sex with men (MSM)

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A Canadian man contracted a rare fungal skin infection caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII during a trip to Mexico, likely through sexual contact. The infection presented as deep, painful lesions in the genital area that didn’t respond to typical treatments and required 10 weeks of oral and topical antifungal medication to cure. This is the first confirmed case in Canada and highlights the importance of doctors being aware of sexually transmitted fungal infections, especially in patients with unusual rashes that don’t improve with standard treatments.

Fungi from Anopheles darlingi Root, 1926, larval breeding sites in the Brazilian Amazon

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Researchers discovered and identified 206 fungal strains from 30 different types living in mosquito breeding waters in the Amazon. These fungi come from three main groups, with the most common fungi being Paraconiothyrium, Fusarium, and Microsphaeropsis. The findings show that natural water habitats with vegetation and fish support more diverse fungi than human-altered environments. Some of these fungi could potentially be used to control malaria-carrying mosquitoes naturally.

Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative to Control Several Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part III

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This study tested six common essential oils (from oregano, thyme, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and basil) to see if they could stop five types of fungi that spoil bananas after harvest. Thyme oil worked best, completely stopping fungal growth at the highest concentration tested. Cinnamon and oregano oils also worked well at moderate concentrations. These natural oils could replace synthetic fungicides and help keep bananas fresher longer during storage and transport.

Molecular evidence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in arid urban landscapes of shiraz cockroaches (Blattodea), Southwest Iran: Implications for urban public health surveillance

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Researchers in Shiraz, Iran found that cockroaches can carry Enterocytozoon bieneusi, a dangerous fungal parasite that causes severe diarrhea in people with weak immune systems. The study collected and tested 378 cockroaches from hospitals and public areas, discovering three positive cases. While the arid climate of Shiraz appears to limit how well these pathogens survive compared to tropical regions, the presence of parasites in hospital cockroaches poses real health risks, especially for vulnerable patients. Better pest control and sanitation in hospitals are essential to prevent spread.

A New Species and Eight New Records of Ascomycetes from Freshwater Niches in Korea

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Researchers discovered a brand new species of fungus and identified eight previously unknown fungal species living in freshwater environments across South Korea. These freshwater fungi play important roles in breaking down plant material and producing compounds with antimicrobial properties. The study used DNA analysis and traditional microscopy to identify and describe these fungi in detail, significantly expanding our knowledge of fungal diversity in Korean freshwater habitats.

Ophiostomatoid fungi associated with Hylurgus ligniperda, including six new species from eastern China

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Researchers identified 13 species of fungi living in a wood-boring beetle called the red-haired pine bark beetle, including six entirely new species never described before. These fungi live inside the beetles and help them invade pine forests. The study shows that different continents have different combinations of fungal partners living with these beetles, suggesting that these partnerships are specifically adapted to local conditions.

Research Keyword: phylogenetic analysis