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Optimization of cultural conditions for pectinase production by Diaporthe isolate Z1-1N and its pathogenicity on kiwifruit

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Researchers studied a fungus called Diaporthe that causes soft rot disease in kiwifruit, which is an important crop. They found that the fungus produces special enzymes (pectinases) that help it break down the fruit’s protective cell walls, causing decay. By testing different temperatures, pH levels, and incubation times, they determined the best conditions to produce these harmful enzymes and confirmed they play a major role in disease development.

Additions to the Entoloma (Agaricales, Entolomataceae) from China: Description of five species with one new to science

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Researchers from China identified five species of Entoloma mushrooms in the Qilian Mountains, including one previously unknown species named E. griseopileum. This new mushroom species is distinguished by its gray color, textured cap, and ability to grow on wood. This discovery contributes to understanding the fungal diversity of this ecologically important mountain region in northwest China.

Additions to the Entoloma (Agaricales, Entolomataceae) from China: Description of five species with one new to science

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Scientists studying mushrooms in China’s Qilian Mountains discovered five species of Entoloma mushrooms, including one completely new to science called Entoloma griseopileum. This gray mushroom grows on wood rather than soil, unlike most similar species. The research used both traditional microscopic examination and modern DNA analysis to identify and describe these mushrooms, adding to our knowledge of fungal diversity in this important biodiversity region.

Mechanisms and impacts of Agaricus urinascens fairy rings on plant diversity and microbial communities in a montane Mediterranean grassland

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Fairy ring fungi create circular patterns in grasslands by forming dense underground networks that dramatically change soil properties and plant communities. The study found that these fungal rings reduce plant diversity by 40% at their advancing edge while boosting grass growth inside the ring, creating a stark ecological shift. The fungi produce calcium oxalate crystals that make soil very water-repellent, causing nearby plants to dry out and die. This research shows how a single fungus species can reshape entire ecosystems through physical and chemical changes in the soil.

10 years of advancing diversity within the Mycological Society of America

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The Mycological Society of America has spent the last decade working to make the field of mycology more welcoming and diverse. After discovering in 2015 that most mycologists were white men, the society created new programs and policies to support women, people from racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ scientists. Their efforts have shown progress, especially in getting more women involved in student awards and leadership positions, though there is still more work to be done.

MSB2-activated pheromone pathway regulates fungal plasma membrane integrity in response to herbicide adjuvant

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Commercial herbicides used in farming contain additives that can harm beneficial soil fungi more than the main active ingredient. This study shows that the additive Triton CG-110 in Roundup herbicide damages fungal cells by disrupting their ability to absorb nutrients. Fungi respond by activating a stress response pathway that helps them survive by reinforcing their cell membranes. Understanding these processes is important for protecting beneficial fungi used in agriculture.

The Novel Disease Vicia unijuga Caused by Colletotrichum tofieldiae in China: Implications for Host Growth, Photosynthesis, and Nutritional Quality

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Scientists in China discovered that a fungus called Colletotrichum tofieldiae causes a disease called anthracnose in perennial vetch (Vicia unijuga), an important forage crop used for animal feed. When plants get infected with this fungus, they become weak, their ability to photosynthesize decreases, and the nutritional quality of the plant drops significantly, reducing its value as animal feed. The fungus can also infect other legume crops like alfalfa and clover, showing it has a broad range of potential host plants.

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

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Scientists discovered two previously unknown types of fungi – one living in the roots of seagrass in Mauritius and another found in salty soils in the Czech Republic. These fungi belong to a special group that thrives in salty environments. By studying their DNA and physical characteristics, researchers confirmed these are entirely new species and determined where they fit in the fungal family tree. The findings suggest that these salt-loving fungi are more widespread than previously thought and can live in both ocean and inland salty habitats.

Living Textures and Mycelium Skin Co-Creation: Designing Colour, Pattern, and Performance for Bio-Aesthetic Expression in Mycelium-Bound Composites

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Researchers discovered that mushroom mycelium can naturally change color and texture in response to different environmental conditions, making it possible to design beautiful, sustainable building materials without chemical treatments. By controlling moisture and oxygen exposure during growth, scientists can create specific patterns and colors ranging from white to brown on mycelium composite surfaces. This breakthrough suggests that fungal-based materials could become more visually appealing and widely accepted for use in architecture and construction, supporting both environmental sustainability and public acceptance of bio-based building products.

Isolation and molecular identification of pathogens causing sea turtle egg fusariosis in key nesting beaches in Costa Rica

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Researchers in Costa Rica discovered that a dangerous fungal disease affecting sea turtle eggs is more widespread than previously known. The disease, called sea turtle egg fusariosis, is caused by two types of fungi that can kill developing turtle embryos. Scientists used advanced genetic testing to identify these fungi at major turtle nesting beaches on both coasts of Costa Rica, finding one fungus present at all locations while another was found only on the Caribbean coast. While the disease is not severely harming Costa Rican sea turtles yet, environmental changes could make it worse in the future.

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