phylogenetics – Page 3

Digging into the evolutionary history of the fungus-growing-ant symbiont, Escovopsis (Hypocreaceae)

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Researchers studied fungi called Escovopsis that live in ant colonies and interact with the fungi that ants farm for food. By examining 309 fungal samples from across Central and South America, they discovered that these fungi originated 57 million years ago but only started living with the ants about 38 million years ago. Over time, Escovopsis evolved to grow faster and reproduce more efficiently, likely helping it survive in the ant colony environment.

Three novel species of Cladosporium and Sarocladium isolated from palm trees

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Researchers in China discovered three new species of fungi growing on palm tree leaves. These fungi, belonging to the genera Cladosporium and Sarocladium, were identified using genetic testing and microscopic examination. The findings help scientists better understand fungal diversity on ornamental plants and may assist in managing fungal diseases that affect palm trees cultivated in gardens and landscapes.

Multilocus sequence typing of Candida albicans isolates from wild and farm animals from southern Italy

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Researchers studied a fungal pathogen called Candida albicans found in farm and wild animals in Italy to understand how it spreads between animals and humans. They used genetic analysis to compare isolates from laying hens, wild boars, and lizards with samples from infected humans around the world. The results showed that animal isolates were genetically similar to human clinical samples, suggesting animals could serve as reservoirs for this infection. This research highlights the importance of monitoring fungal diseases in animal populations as part of understanding disease transmission between animals and people.

New insights into Cortinarius: Novel taxa from subtropical China

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Scientists discovered six new types of Cortinarius mushrooms in subtropical forests of China. These mushrooms form symbiotic relationships with tree roots. The researchers used genetic analysis combined with physical characteristics to identify and describe these new species, adding significantly to our understanding of fungal diversity in this region.

Pseudobaorangia (Boletaceae, Boletales), a new genus for Boletus lakhanpalii

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Scientists have identified and named a new genus of mushroom called Pseudobaorangia for a species previously misclassified as Boletus lakhanpalii. Using DNA analysis of samples found in China’s Baima Snow Mountain, researchers determined this mushroom is closely related to but distinct from the genus Baorangia. This discovery helps clarify the family relationships of boletes, which are a diverse group of mushrooms found around the world.

The genus Thaxterogaster (Cortinariaceae): phylogeny and species diversity in Western China

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Researchers studied mushrooms of the genus Thaxterogaster, which are common fungi found in forests worldwide. This study focused on Western China and identified 15 different species in the region, including 8 species never before described by science. Using DNA analysis combined with traditional microscopy, the team created a family tree showing how these species are related to each other and provided a guide for identifying them.

Pan-genomic characterization and structural variant analysis reveal insights into spore development and species diversity in Ganoderma

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Researchers completed the first comprehensive genome study of 15 Ganoderma (Lingzhi/Reishi) varieties, including five new Chinese strains. They discovered that specific genetic changes in the MSH4 gene dramatically increase spore production in one superior strain. These findings help explain why different Ganoderma varieties have different medicinal properties and can guide breeding of better medicinal mushroom varieties.

The complete mitochondrial genome of medicinal fungus Taiwanofungus camphoratus reveals gene rearrangements and intron dynamics of Polyporales

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Scientists have decoded the complete genetic blueprint of the mitochondria in Taiwanofungus camphoratus, a highly valued medicinal mushroom from Taiwan. This fungus has been used in traditional medicine for treating inflammation, cancer, and liver diseases. By comparing its mitochondrial DNA with related fungal species, researchers discovered that this mushroom has a unique genetic arrangement and uncovered how genes have been rearranged during evolution. This discovery helps scientists better understand how this important medicinal fungus evolved and can improve its classification and medical applications.

The complete mitochondrial genome of the banana pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense M5

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Researchers have completed the full genetic map of the mitochondria (energy-producing structures) of a fungus that causes a serious disease in banana plants. The study identified all the genes in this mitochondrial genome and discovered special structures called introns within two genes. This genetic information could help scientists develop better ways to detect and identify this harmful banana pathogen.

Two New Species of Collybiopsis (Agaricales, Omphalotaceae) from Mudeungsan National Park in Korea

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Scientists discovered two new species of small mushrooms in Mudeungsan National Park in South Korea. These mushrooms, named Collybiopsis albida and Collybiopsis pini, are decomposer fungi that help break down dead wood and plant material in forests. The researchers used both traditional microscopic examination and modern DNA analysis to confirm these were previously unknown species, highlighting how genetic testing is essential for accurately identifying mushrooms that look similar to each other.

Research Keyword: phylogenetics