phylogenetic analysis – Page 39

Multi-locus molecular phylogenetic analysis reveals four new species and a new record of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) on dipteran hosts in Thailand

mycolabadmin

Researchers studying fungi in Thai forests discovered four previously unknown species of Ophiocordyceps that parasitise different types of flies. Using DNA analysis combined with microscopic examination, scientists confirmed these fungi are distinct species, each specialising on particular fly types like houseflies, fruit flies, and robber flies. This research expands our understanding of the remarkable diversity of fungi that naturally control insect populations, which could have implications for biological pest control.

Phylogenetic and functional diversity among Drosophila-associated metagenome-assembled genomes

mycolabadmin

Researchers used advanced sequencing techniques to study the bacteria living in wild fruit flies collected from three continents. They discovered that these flies host diverse communities of bacteria that produce various compounds potentially beneficial to the fly, including antimicrobial molecules and metabolites that may help with nutrition and disease resistance. The study reveals that wild fly microbiomes are much more complex than previously understood from laboratory studies.

Characterisation of Plant Growth-Promoting Endophytic Bacteria from Sugarcane and Their Antagonistic Activity against Fusarium moniliforme

mycolabadmin

Researchers isolated and identified fourteen types of beneficial bacteria living inside sugarcane plants that can fight against a harmful fungus called Fusarium moniliforme, which damages both sugarcane and rice crops. These bacteria not only kill the fungus but also help plants grow better by producing growth-promoting compounds. When used as a seed treatment, the bacteria reduced fungal infection in rice seedlings by 80%, offering a natural alternative to chemical fungicides.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

Twenty-nine new host records of powdery mildew fungi (Erysiphaceae) in Taiwan with an updated checklist

mycolabadmin

Researchers updated Taiwan’s list of powdery mildew fungi, which are harmful plant pathogens affecting crops and trees worldwide. By collecting specimens from various locations and analyzing them using genetic sequencing and microscopy, they identified 29 new host-fungus combinations, with six Erysiphaceae species documented in Taiwan for the first time. The updated checklist now includes approximately 109 powdery mildew species known to affect 246 different host plant species across 75 plant families in Taiwan.

First report and diversity analysis of endophytic fungi associated with Ulva sp. from Iran

mycolabadmin

Researchers discovered seven species of fungi living inside Ulva seaweed collected from Iran’s coast. This is the first time these fungi have been found living in this type of seaweed in Iran. The fungi were identified using both microscopy and DNA analysis. These findings help us understand the hidden relationships between fungi and marine plants in our oceans.

Multigene phylogeny and taxonomy of Dendryphion hydei and Torula hydei spp. nov. from herbaceous litter in northern Thailand

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered and formally named two new fungal species from dead plant material in northern Thailand. Using both traditional microscopy to examine the fungi’s physical structures and modern DNA analysis, they determined these are previously unknown species within the Torulaceae fungal family. The research helps scientists better understand fungal diversity and how different fungal species are related to each other.

Genome characterization of Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII strain PG12DES from Italy

mycolabadmin

Researchers in Italy studied a fungal strain that causes skin infections, particularly ringworm and related conditions. This strain is spreading globally and can potentially be transmitted through sexual contact. The study found that the Italian strain is closely related to another strain found in Moldova and is susceptible to currently used antifungal medications. Understanding this fungus at the genetic level helps doctors monitor its spread and identify if it develops resistance to treatments.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

Fusarium suttonianum Identified as the Causal Agent of Root Rot in Plukenetia volubilis in Peru

mycolabadmin

Scientists in Peru discovered that a fungus called Fusarium suttonianum is causing root rot disease in sacha inchi plants, an important crop known for its omega-3 rich seeds. Using both traditional microscopy and modern DNA testing, researchers confirmed this fungus as the culprit and demonstrated it can cause the same disease symptoms in healthy plants. This discovery is important for farmers because it provides the first scientific identification of this disease threat in Peru, enabling the development of better disease prevention and control strategies.

Research Keyword: phylogenetic analysis