phylogenetic analysis – Page 5

Nannizziopsis arthrosporioides infection mimicking ophidiomycosis in ball pythons (Python regius)

mycolabadmin

A wild-caught boa snake developed severe skin lesions caused by a fungus called Nannizziopsis arthrosporioides. Within a week, six ball pythons housed nearby developed similar skin infections. Using DNA testing and microscopy, researchers confirmed this was the first documented case of this fungus infecting snakes, demonstrating how quickly fungal infections can spread between animals in shared environments.

First Report of Buchwaldoboletus lignicola (Boletaceae), a Potentially Endangered Basidiomycete Species, in South Korea

mycolabadmin

Scientists in South Korea discovered a rare mushroom called Buchwaldoboletus lignicola for the first time in the country growing on dead Korean pine trees in Gwangneung Forest. This mushroom, which is endangered in Europe, was identified using both traditional microscopic examination and modern DNA analysis. The findings suggest this rare fungus may be present in Asian forests and could potentially need legal protection in South Korea.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

SsMet1 is a critical gene in methionine biosynthesis in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

mycolabadmin

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a destructive plant pathogen causing white mold and other crop diseases. This study identified and deleted the SsMet1 gene, which is essential for methionine production in this fungus. Fungi lacking this gene could not grow properly, form survival structures called sclerotia, or infect plants. These findings suggest that blocking methionine biosynthesis could be a new way to develop fungicides against this important crop pathogen.

Descriptions of 19 Unrecorded Species Belonging to Sordariomycetes in Korea

mycolabadmin

Scientists in Korea discovered and documented 19 species of fungi that were previously unrecorded in the country. These fungi were found in soil and freshwater environments across Korea. Using microscopy and DNA analysis, the researchers confirmed the identity of each species and provided detailed descriptions and illustrations. This discovery helps us better understand the fungal diversity present in Korean ecosystems.

Emergence of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa among pet animals: a possible public health risk on the move

mycolabadmin

Researchers discovered that a fungus called Rhodotorula mucilaginosa is increasingly infecting pet dogs and cats, particularly in their ears and nasal passages. This yeast was previously thought to be harmless but is now recognized as a disease-causing pathogen that shows resistance to many common antifungal medications. The study raises important concerns about the potential transmission of this infection from pets to their human caregivers, suggesting pet owners should be aware of this emerging health risk.

Kalmusia variispora (Didymosphaeriaceae, Dothideomycetes) Associated with the Grapevine Trunk Disease Complex in Cyprus

mycolabadmin

Kalmusia variispora is a fungus that causes trunk diseases in grapevines, resulting in wood discoloration and plant decline. This study identified the fungus in Cyprus vineyards and demonstrated its ability to infect and damage grapevine wood. The fungus produces enzymes that break down plant cell walls, with stronger enzyme production correlating to more severe disease. Understanding this pathogen is important for developing better disease management strategies in vineyards.

Two New Species of the Genus Diderma (Physarales, Didymiaceae) in China with an Addition to the Distribution

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered two previously unknown species of slime molds (Diderma shaanxiense and Diderma clavatocolumellum) in China during biodiversity surveys. Using both microscopic observation and genetic analysis, they confirmed these are distinct species with unique characteristics. They also documented where two other known species were found in China for the first time. This research helps scientists better understand the diversity of slime molds in terrestrial ecosystems.

Biochemical and molecular characterization of fungal isolates from California annual grassland soil

mycolabadmin

Scientists studied soil fungi from California grasslands to find the best strains for producing biofuels and health supplements. They discovered that Mortierella fungi are especially good at accumulating oils and producing beneficial compounds like arachidonic acid. Three specific fungal strains stood out as having the highest oil content and best fatty acid profiles, making them promising candidates for industrial production of sustainable fuels and nutritional supplements.

From seagrass roots to saline soils: discovery of two new genera in Lulworthiales (Sordariomycetes) from osmotically stressed habitats

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered two completely new types of fungi living in unusual salty environments. One fungus was found living inside seagrass roots near Mauritius, while the other was discovered in salt-affected soils in the Czech Republic. Using DNA analysis and microscopy, researchers confirmed these are entirely new species that belong to a group of fungi specially adapted to salty environments. This discovery shows that these salt-loving fungi are more widespread and diverse than previously thought.

Research Keyword: phylogenetic analysis