Families of Sordariomycetes

Paramphibambusabambusicola gen. et. sp. nov., Arecophilaxishuangbannaensis and A.zhaotongensis spp. nov. in Cainiaceae from Yunnan, China

Morphological comparisons and multi locus phylogenetic analyses (base on the combined genes of ITS, LSU, rpb2 and tub) demonstrated that three new saprobic taxa isolated from bamboo belong to Cainiaceae. These taxa comprise a novel genus Paramphibambusa (P.bambusicolasp. nov.) and two new species, Arecophilaxishuangbannaensis and A.zhaotongensis. The three new taxa belong to Cainiaceae (Xylariales, Sordariomycetes) a poorly studied family, which now comprises eight genera. Paramphibambusa can be distinguished from other Cainiaceae genera in having ascomata with a neck and ascospores lacking longitudinal striation, germ slits or germ pores. The two new Arecophila species clustered in a clade with Arecophila sp. and A.bambusae. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and an updated phylogenetic tree are provided for the new taxa.

Four new species of Dothideomycetes (Ascomycota) from Pará Rubber (Heveabrasiliensis) in Yunnan Province, China

The tropical areas in southern and south-western Yunnan are rich in fungal diversity. Additionally, the diversity of seed flora in Yunnan Province is higher than in other regions in China and the abundant endemic species of woody plants provide favourable substrates for fungi. Rubber plantations in Yunnan Province are distributed over a large area, especially in Xishuangbanna. During a survey of rubber-associated fungi in Yunnan Province, China, dead rubber branches with fungal fruiting bodies were collected. Morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2 and tef1-α) revealed four distinct new species, described herein as Melomastiapuerensis, Nigrogranalincangensis, Pseudochaetosphaeronemalincangensis and Pseudochaetosphaeronemaxishuangbannaensis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations and phylogenetic trees are provided to show the taxonomic placements of these new species.

Three novel species of Aquapteridospora (Distoseptisporales, Aquapteridosporaceae) from freshwater habitats in Tibetan Plateau, China

During an investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the Tibetan Plateau, three Aquapteridospora taxa were collected from freshwater habitats in Xizang, China. The new species possess polyblastic, sympodial, denticles conidiogenous cells and fusiform, septate, with or without sheath conidial, that fit within the generic concept of Aquapteridospora, and multi-gene phylogeny placed these species within Aquapteridospora. Detailed morphological observations clearly demarcate three of these from extant species and are hence described as new taxa. The multi-gene phylogeny of the combined LSU, TEF1-α, and ITS sequence data to infer phylogenetic relationships and discuss phylogenetic affinities with morphologically similar species. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, three new species viz. A.linzhiensis, A.yadongensis, and A.submersa are introduced. Details of asexual morphs are described, and justifications for establishing these new species are also provided in this study.

Replacing traditional pretreatment in one-step UF with natural short-distance riverbank filtration: Continuous contaminants removal and TMP increase relief

Scientists have been focusing on applying more natural processes instead of industrial chemicals in drinking water treatment to achieve the purpose of carbon emissions reduction. In this study, we shortened the infiltration range of riverbank filtration, a natural water purification process, to form the short-distance riverbank filtration (sRBF) which retained its ability in water quality improvement and barely influenced the groundwater environment, and integrated it with ultrafiltration (UF) to form a one-step sRBF-UF system. This naturalness-artificiality combination could realize stable contaminants removal and trans-membrane pressure (TMP) increase relief for over 30 days without dosing chemicals. Generally, both sRBF and UF played the important role in river water purification, and the interaction between them made the one-step sRBF-UF superior in long-term operation. The sRBF could efficiently remove contaminants (90 % turbidity, 60 % total nitrogen, 30 % ammonia nitrogen, and 25 % total organic carbon) and reduce the membrane fouling potential of river water under its optimum operation conditions, i.e., a hydraulic retention time of 48 h, an operation temperature of 20 °C, and a synergistic filter material of aquifer and riverbank soil. Synergistic adsorption, interception, and microbial biodegradation were proved to be the mechanisms of contaminants and foulants removal for sRBF. The sequential UF also participated in the reduction of impurities and especially played a role in intercepting microbial metabolism products and possibly leaked microorganisms from sRBF, assuring the safety of product water. To date, the one-step sRBF-UF was a new attempt to combine a natural process with an artificial one, and realized a good and stable product quality in long-term operation without doing industrial chemicals, which made it a promised alternative for water purification for cities alongside the river.

Four novel Pleurocordyceps (Polycephalomycetaceae) species from China

Entomopathogenic fungi comprise an ecologically important group of specialized pathogens infecting other fungi, invertebrates, and plants. These fungi are species-rich with high diversity and broad distribution worldwide. The majority of entomopathogenic fungi belong to clavicipitoids, which consist of the hypocrealean families, Clavicipitaceae, Cordycipitaceae, Ophiocordycipitaceae, and Polycephalomycetaceae. The latter is a newly established entomopathogenic family that recently separated from the family Ophiocordycipitaceae to accommodate the genera, Perennicordyceps, Pleurocordyceps, and Polycephalomyces. In recent years, Polycephalomycetaceae has been enriched with parasitic and hyperparasitic fungi. With 16 species spread across China, Ecuador, Japan, and Thailand, Pleurocordyceps is the most speciose genus in the family. In this study, we expand the number of taxa in the genus by introducing four new Pleurocordyceps species from China, namely, P. clavisynnema, P. multisynnema, P. neoagarica, and P. sanduensis. We provide detailed descriptions and illustrations and infer genus-level phylogenies based on a combined 6-loci gene sequence dataset comprising the internal transcribed spacer gene region (ITS), small subunit ribosomal RNA gene region (SSU), large subunit rRNA gene region (LSU), translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene region (TEF-1α), RNA polymerase II largest subunit gene region (RPB1), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2). This study contributes to knowledge with regard to the diversity of Pleurocordyceps specifically and entomopathogenic Hypocreales more broadly.

Palm Fungi and Their Key Role in Biodiversity Surveys: A Review

Over the past three decades, a wealth of studies has shown that palm trees (Arecaceae) are a diverse habitat with intense fungal colonisation, making them an important substratum to explore fungal diversity. Palm trees are perennial, monocotyledonous plants mainly restricted to the tropics that include economically important crops and highly valued ornamental plants worldwide. The extensive research conducted in Southeast Asia and Australasia indicates that palm fungi are undoubtedly a taxonomically diverse assemblage from which a remarkable number of new species is continuously being reported. Despite this wealth of data, no recent comprehensive review on palm fungi exists to date. In this regard, we present here a historical account and discussion of the research on the palm fungi to reflect on their importance as a diverse and understudied assemblage. The taxonomic structure of palm fungi is also outlined, along with comments on the need for further studies to place them within modern DNA sequence-based classifications. Palm trees can be considered model plants for studying fungal biodiversity and, therefore, the key role of palm fungi in biodiversity surveys is discussed. The close association and intrinsic relationship between palm hosts and palm fungi, coupled with a high fungal diversity, suggest that the diversity of palm fungi is still far from being fully understood. The figures suggested in the literature for the diversity of palm fungi have been revisited and updated here. As a result, it is estimated that there are about 76,000 species of palm fungi worldwide, of which more than 2500 are currently known. This review emphasises that research on palm fungi may provide answers to a number of current fungal biodiversity challenges.

Taxonomy and evolution history of two new litter-decomposing Ciliochorella (Amphisphaeriales, Sporocadaceae)

The genus Ciliochorella is a group of pestalotioid fungi, which typically occurs in subtropical and tropical areas. Species from the Ciliochorella genus play important roles in the decomposition of litter. In this study, we introduce two new species (Ciliochorellachinensissp. nov. and C.savannicasp. nov.) that were found on leaf litter collected from savanna-like vegetation in hot dry valleys of southwestern China. Phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS and tub2 sequence datasets indicated that C.chinensis and C.savannica respectively form a distinct clade within the Ciliochorella genus. The comparison of the morphological characteristics indicated that the two new species are well differentiated within this genus species. Analysis of the evolutionary history suggests that Ciliochorella originated from the Eurasian continent during the Paleogene (38 Mya). Further, we find that both new species can produce cellulase and laccase, playing a decomposer role.

Long-term application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers changes the process of community construction by affecting keystone species of crop rhizosphere microorganisms

Keystone species of microbial communities play a very important role in community structure and ecosystem function; however, the effect of long-term nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers on key taxa and the mechanisms of community construction of rhizosphere microbial communities remain unclear. In this study, the effect of nine fertilization treatments (N0P0, N0P1, N0P2, N1P0, N1P1, N1P2, N2P0, N2P1, and N2P2) on soil microbial community diversity, keystone species, and construction methods in the crop rhizosphere were studied in a loess hilly area after 26 years of fertilization. The results showed that fertilization significantly increased the nutrient contents of the rhizospheric soil and root system and significantly affected microbial community composition (based on the Bray-Curtis distance) and community construction process (β-nearest taxon index: βNTI). The decrease in the abundance of oligotrophic bacteria (from phyla Acidobacteriota and Chloroflexi) in the keystone species of bacterial communities shifted the community construction process from homogenizing dispersal to variable selection process and was significantly regulated by soil factors (total P and carbon-N ratio). However, the decrease in the abundance of keystone species (from phylum Basidiomycota) in the fungal communities did not have a significant effect on community construction, which was mainly affected by root characteristics (root N content and soluble sugar). This study found that long-term N and P fertilization changed the keystone species composition of bacterial communities by affecting the nutrient content of the rhizospheric soil, such as total P, so that the construction mode of communities changed from a stochastic to a deterministic process, and the N2 fertilization, especially the N1P2 treatment was better for increasing network stability (modularity and clustering coefficient).

Biodiversity of Fungi in Freshwater Ecosystems of Italy

Fungal biodiversity is still mostly unknown and their presence in particular ecosystems such as freshwater habitats is often underestimated. The ecological role that these fungi play in freshwater environments mainly concerns their activity as decomposers of litter and plant material. At present, it is estimated that 3870 species belong to the ecological group of freshwater fungi (13 phyla and 45 classes). In this survey, we provide an overview of the Italian freshwater fungal diversity on the basis of the field and literature data. In the literature, data on freshwater fungi are fragmentary and not updated, focusing mainly on northern Italy where the most important lakes and rivers are present, while data from central and southern Italy (including Sicily and Sardinia) are almost completely ineffective. In particular, Ascomycota are reported in only 14 publications, most of which concern the freshwater environments of Lombardia, Piemonte, and Veneto. Only one publication explores the biodiversity of freshwater Basidiomycota in the wetlands of the Cansiglio forest (Veneto). The field observation allowed for us to identify 38 species of Basidiomycota growing in riparian forest of Italy. However, the number of fungi in freshwater habitats of Italy is strongly underestimated and many species are still completely unknown.

First insights into diversity and potential metabolic pathways of bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere of Argemonemexicana L. (Papaveraceae) from the water-level-fluctuation zone of Wudongde Reservoir of the upper Yangtze river, China

The water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of Wudongde reservoir of the upper Yangtze river is a completely new aquatic-terrestrial transitional zone, and its plant degenerate issue is attracting global concerns. Uncovering the unknown rhizosphere microbiome of dominant plants of this zone is helpful in understanding the plant-microbe interactions and their growth under the largely varying environment. Here, a first exploration of the rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities of wilted (JB) and unwilted (JA) Argemonemexicana L. individuals from the WLFZ of Wudongde reservoir was carried out using high-throughput sequencing and MetaCyc metabolic pathway analyses. The results showed that rhizosphere of wilted A.mexicana L individuals exhibited a higher microbial richness and diversity than the unwilted ones, irrespective of the bacterial and fungal communities. It was noted that 837 common bacterial amplicon sequence variants (ASV) and 92 common fungal ASV were presented in both JA and JB with 3108 bacteria and 212 fungi unique to JA, and 3569 bacteria and 693 fungi unique to JB. Linear discriminant analysis effect Size (LEfSe) analyses indicated that the taxa that had the most contribution to observed differences between both JA and JB was Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Ascomycota for JA, and Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Basidiomycota and Ascomycota for JB. Organic compound conversion pathway (degradation/reduction/oxidation) was consistently highly represented in the rhizosphere microbiomes of both JA and JB. Overall, this study provides insights into the rhizosphere microbiome composition, diversity and metabolic pathways of both wilted and unwilted A.mexicana L. individuals in the WLFZ of Wudongde reservoir, and the results give valuable clues for manipulating microbes to support plant growth in such a recently-formed WLFZ under a dry-hot valley environment.

The Sordariomycetes: an expanding resource with Big Data for mining in evolutionary genomics and transcriptomics

Advances in genomics and transcriptomics accompanying the rapid accumulation of omics data have provided new tools that have transformed and expanded the traditional concepts of model fungi. Evolutionary genomics and transcriptomics have flourished with the use of classical and newer fungal models that facilitate the study of diverse topics encompassing fungal biology and development. Technological advances have also created the opportunity to obtain and mine large datasets. One such continuously growing dataset is that of the Sordariomycetes, which exhibit a richness of species, ecological diversity, economic importance, and a profound research history on amenable models. Currently, 3,574 species of this class have been sequenced, comprising nearly one-third of the available ascomycete genomes. Among these genomes, multiple representatives of the model genera Fusarium, Neurospora, and Trichoderma are present. In this review, we examine recently published studies and data on the Sordariomycetes that have contributed novel insights to the field of fungal evolution via integrative analyses of the genetic, pathogenic, and other biological characteristics of the fungi. Some of these studies applied ancestral state analysis of gene expression among divergent lineages to infer regulatory network models, identify key genetic elements in fungal sexual development, and investigate the regulation of conidial germination and secondary metabolism. Such multispecies investigations address challenges in the study of fungal evolutionary genomics derived from studies that are often based on limited model genomes and that primarily focus on the aspects of biology driven by knowledge drawn from a few model species. Rapidly accumulating information and expanding capabilities for systems biological analysis of Big Data are setting the stage for the expansion of the concept of model systems from unitary taxonomic species/genera to inclusive clusters of well-studied models that can facilitate both the in-depth study of specific lineages and also investigation of trait diversity across lineages. The Sordariomycetes class, in particular, offers abundant omics data and a large and active global research community. As such, the Sordariomycetes can form a core omics clade, providing a blueprint for the expansion of our knowledge of evolution at the genomic scale in the exciting era of Big Data and artificial intelligence, and serving as a reference for the future analysis of different taxonomic levels within the fungal kingdom.

Long-term fertilization suppresses rice pathogens by microbial volatile compounds

Microbial volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can suppress plant pathogens. Although fertilization strongly affects soil microbial communities, the influence of fertilization on microbial VOC-mediated suppression of pathogens has not been elucidated. Soil was sampled from a paddy field that had been subjected to the following treatments for 30 years: a no-fertilizer control, mineral fertilization (NPK), NPK combined with rice straw (NPK + S), NPK combined with chicken manure (70% NPK + 30% M). Then, within a laboratory experiment, pathogens were exposed to VOCs without physical contact to assess the impact of VOCs emitted from paddy soils on in vitro growth of the fungal rice pathogens: Pyricularia oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani. The VOCs emitted from soil reduced the mycelial biomass of P. oryzae and R. solani by 36-51% and 10-30%, respectively, compared to that of the control (no soil; no VOCs emission). Overall, the highest suppression of P. oryzae and R. solani was in the NPK and NPK + S soils, which emitted more quinones, phenols, and low alcohols than NPK + M soils. The abundances of quinones and phenols in the soil air were maximal in the NPK-fertilized soil because the low ratio of dissolved organic carbon and Olsen-P increased the population of key species such as Acidobacteriae, Anaerolineae, and Entorrhizomycetes. The abundance of alcohols was minimum in the NPK + S fertilized soil because the high SOC content decreased the population of Sordariomycetes. In conclusion, mineral fertilization affects bacterial and fungal VOC emissions, thereby suppressing the growth of R. solani and P. oryzae.

Microbial Assemblages Associated with the Soil-Root Continuum of an Endangered Plant, Helianthemum songaricum Schrenk

The microbial network of the soil-root continuum plays a key role in plant growth. To date, limited information is available about the microbial assemblages in the rhizosphere and endosphere of endangered plants. We suspect that unknown microorganisms in roots and soil play an important role in the survival strategies of endangered plants. To address this research gap, we investigated the diversity and composition of the microbial communities of the soil-root continuum of the endangered shrub Helianthemum songaricum and observed that the microbial communities and structures of the rhizosphere and endosphere samples were distinguishable. The dominant rhizosphere bacteria were Actinobacteria (36.98%) and Acidobacteria (18.15%), whereas most endophytes were Alphaproteobacteria (23.17%) as well as Actinobacteria (29.94%). The relative abundance of rhizosphere bacteria was higher than that in endosphere samples. Fungal rhizosphere and endophyte samples had approximately equal abundances of the Sordariomycetes (23%), while the Pezizomycetes were more abundant in the soil (31.95%) than in the roots (5.70%). The phylogenetic relationships of the abundances of microbes in root and soil samples also showed that the most abundant bacterial and fungal reads tended to be dominant in either the soil or root samples but not both. Additionally, Pearson correlation heatmap analysis showed that the diversity and composition of soil bacteria and fungi were closely related to pH, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and organic matter, of which pH and organic matter were the main drivers. These results clarify the different patterns of microbial communities of the soil-root continuum, in support of the better conservation and utilization of endangered desert plants in Inner Mongolia. IMPORTANCE Microbial assemblages play significant roles in plant survival, health, and ecological services. The symbiosis between soil microorganisms and these plants and their interactions with soil factors are important features of the adaptation of desert plants to an arid and barren environment. Therefore, the profound study of the microbial diversity of rare desert plants can provide important data to support the protection and utilization of rare desert plants. Accordingly, in this study, high-throughput sequencing technology was applied to study the microbial diversity in plant roots and rhizosphere soils. We expect that research on the relationship between soil and root microbial diversity and the environment will improve the survival of endangered plants in this environment. In summary, this study is the first to study the microbial diversity and community structure of Helianthemum songaricum Schrenk and compare the diversity and composition of the root and soil microbiomes.

Morphological and phylogenetic characterisation of two new soil-borne fungal taxa belonging to Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota)

The fungal taxa belonging to the Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) are widely distributed and include diverse saprophytic, symbiotic and pathogenic species that are associated with soils, insects, plants, fungi and invertebrates. In this study, we identified two new fungal taxa belonging to the family Clavicipitaceae that were isolated from soils collected in China. Morphological characterisation and phylogenetic analyses showed that the two species belong to Pochonia (Pochoniasinensissp. nov.) and a new genus for which we propose Paraneoaraneomycesgen. nov. in Clavicipitaceae.

Two new fungal genera (Diaporthales) found on Dipterocarpaceae in Thailand

Diaporthales is a species-rich order of fungi that includes endophytes, saprobes, and pathogens associated with forest plants and crops. They may also occur as parasites or secondary invaders of plant tissues injured or infected by other organisms or inhabit living animal and human tissues, as well as soil. Meanwhile, some severe pathogens wipe out large-scale cultivations of profitable crops, timber monocultures, and forests. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data, generated using maximum likelihood (ML), maximum parsimony (MP), and MrBayes (BI), we introduce two new genera of Diaporthales found in Dipterocarpaceae in Thailand, namely Pulvinaticonidioma and Subellipsoidispora. Pulvinaticonidioma is characterized by solitary, subglobose, pycnidial, unilocular conidiomata with the internal layers convex and pulvinate at the base; hyaline, unbranched, septate conidiophores; hyaline, phialidic, cylindrical to ampulliform, determinate conidiogenous cells and hyaline, cylindrical, straight, unicellular, and aseptate conidia with obtuse ends. Subellipsoidispora has clavate to broadly fusoid, short pedicellate asci with an indistinct J- apical ring; biturbinate to subellipsoidal, hyaline to pale brown, smooth, guttulate ascospores that are 1-septate and slightly constricted at the septa. Detailed morphological and phylogenetic comparisons of these two new genera are provided in this study.

Appendage-Bearing Sordariomycetes from Dipterocarpus alatus Leaf Litter in Thailand

Leaf litter is an essential functional aspect of forest ecosystems, acting as a source of organic matter, a protective layer in forest soils, and a nurturing habitat for micro- and macro-organisms. Through their successional occurrence, litter-inhabiting microfungi play a key role in litter decomposition and nutrient recycling. Despite their importance in terrestrial ecosystems and their abundance and diversity, information on the taxonomy, diversity, and host preference of these decomposer taxa is scarce. This study aims to clarify the taxonomy and phylogeny of four saprobic fungal taxa inhabiting Dipterocarpus alatus leaf litter. Leaf litter samples were collected from Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. Fungal isolates were characterized based on morphology and molecular phylogeny of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS, LSU) and protein-coding genes (tub2, tef1-α, rpb2). One novel saprobic species, Ciliochorella dipterocarpi, and two new host records, Pestalotiopsis dracontomelon and Robillarda australiana, are introduced. The newly described taxa are compared with similar species, and comprehensive descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic trees are provided.

Studies of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) species associated with plant cankers in Beijing, China, with three new species described

The genus Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) comprises endophytes, pathogens and saprophytes, inhabiting a wide range of woody hosts and resulting in serious canker disease. To determine the diversity of Diaporthe species associated with canker disease of host plants in Beijing, China, a total of 35 representative strains were isolated from 18 host genera. Three novel species (D.changpingensis, D.diospyrina and D.ulmina) and four known species (D.corylicola, D.donglingensis, D.eres and D.rostrata) were identified, based on morphological comparison and phylogenetic analyses using partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1-α and tub2 loci. These results provide an understanding of the taxonomy of Diaporthe species associated with canker diseases in Beijing, China.

Additions to Bambusicolous Fungi of Savoryellaceae from Southwest China

Asexual and sexual morphs of saprobic bambusicolous fungi were collected from freshwater and terrestrial habitats in Sichuan Province, China. Taxonomic identification of these fungi was carried out on the basis of morphological comparison, culture characteristics, and molecular phylogeny. Multi-gene phylogeny based on combined SSU, ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1α sequence data was performed to determine their phylogenetic placement, and the result showed that these fungi belong to Savoryellaceae. Morphologically, four asexual morphs are similar to Canalisporium and Dematiosporium, while a sexual morph well-fits to Savoryella. Three new species, Canalisporium sichuanense, Dematiosporium bambusicola, and Savoryella bambusicola are identified and described. Two new records, C. dehongense and D. aquaticum, were recovered from the bamboo hosts in terrestrial and freshwater habitats, respectively. In addition, the nomenclatural confusion of C. dehongense and C. thailandense is discussed.

A new species of Dictyochaeta (Sordariomycetes, Chaetosphaeriales, Chaetosphaeriaceae) from freshwater habitats in China

Background

Freshwater fungi refer to the fungi that depend on the freshwater habitats for the whole life cycle or part of their life cycle. In this context, a new aquatic hyphomycete was isolated from decaying wood in a freshwater habitat in Jiangxi Province, China.

New information

Dictyochaetajiangxiensis sp. nov., a new aquatic hyphomycete, is characterised by its unbranched, septate, base-fertile conidiophores with multisepta and single phialide at the apex, brown, sterile seta, monophialidic, subcylindrical conidiogenous cells narrowing below the funnel-shaped collarette, hyaline, unicellular, thin-walled, smooth, guttulate, falcate to subclavate conidia narrowly rounded at both ends with hair-like appendages. Phylogenetically, the new species Dictyochaetajiangxiensis clustered together with Dictyochaetabrevis MFLU 19-0216 in a well-supported clade, but formed a separate branch. In order to better define the taxonomic status of the new species, a phylogenetic tree of most closely-related taxa in Chaetosphaeriaceae was established, based on multi-locus sequences (ITS and LSU). The novel species is described and illustrated. Newly-generated molecular data of Dictyochaetajiangxiensis is also provided.

Mycophagy: A Global Review of Interactions between Invertebrates and Fungi

Fungi are diverse organisms that occupy important niches in natural settings and agricultural settings, acting as decomposers, mutualists, and parasites and pathogens. Interactions between fungi and other organisms, specifically invertebrates, are understudied. Their numbers are also severely underestimated. Invertebrates exist in many of the same spaces as fungi and are known to engage in fungal feeding or mycophagy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive, global view of mycophagy in invertebrates to bring attention to areas that need more research, by prospecting the existing literature. Separate searches on the Web of Science were performed using the terms "mycophagy" and "fungivore". Invertebrate species and corresponding fungal species were extracted from the articles retrieved, whether the research was field- or laboratory-based, and the location of the observation if field-based. Articles were excluded if they did not list at least a genus identification for both the fungi and invertebrates. The search yielded 209 papers covering seven fungal phyla and 19 invertebrate orders. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota are the most represented fungal phyla whereas Coleoptera and Diptera make up most of the invertebrate observations. Most field-based observations originated from North America and Europe. Research on invertebrate mycophagy is lacking in some important fungal phyla, invertebrate orders, and geographic regions.

Taxonomy of Botryotrichum luteum sp. nov. based on Morphology and Phylogeny Isolated from Soil in Korea

In this study, a fungal strain KNUF-22-025 belonging to the genus Botryotrichum was isolated from the soil in Korea. The cultural and morphological characteristics of this strain differed from those of closely related species. On malt extract agar, strain KNUF-22-025 showed slower growth than most of the related species, except B. domesticum. The conidia size (9.6-21.1 × 9.9-18.4 µm) of strain KNUF-22-025 was larger than those of B. piluliferum, B. domesticum, and B. peruvianum but smaller than those of B. atrogriseum and B. iranicum. Conidiophores in strain KNUF-22-025 (137 µm) were longer than those in other closely related species but shorter than those in B. atrogriseum. Multi-locus analysis of molecular markers, such as ITS, 28S ribosomal DNA, RBP2, and TUB2 revealed that strain KNUF-22-025 was distinct from other Botryotrichum species. Thus, this strain is proposed as a novel species based on morphological characteristics along with molecular phylogeny and named Botryotrichum luteum sp. nov.

Taxonomy and Multigene Phylogeny of Diaporthales in Guizhou Province, China

In a study of fungi isolated from plant material in Guizhou Province, China, we identified 23 strains of Diaporthales belonging to nine species. These are identified from multigene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 gene sequence data coupled with morphological studies. The fungi include a new genus (Pseudomastigosporella) in Foliocryphiaceae isolated from Acer palmatum and Hypericum patulum, a new species of Chrysofolia isolated from Coriaria nepalensis, and five new species of Diaporthe isolated from Juglans regia, Eucommia ulmoides, and Hypericum patulum. Gnomoniopsis rosae and Coniella quercicola are newly recorded species for China.

Multi-Gene Phylogenetic Analyses Revealed Five New Species and Two New Records of Distoseptisporales from China

Eight hyphomycetes were collected as part of an investigation into the diversity of hyphomycetous fungi in China. Based on morphology and multi-loci (LSU, ITS, tef1α, and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses, five new taxa, including a new Aquapteridospora species A. hyalina and four novel Distoseptispora species, viz D. aquisubtropica, D. septata, D. tropica, and D. wuzhishanensis were introduced in Distoseptisporales (Sordariomycetes). Two new habitat records, viz Distoseptispora pachyconidia and D. xishuangbannaensis were firstly reported. Also provided in this study are detailed descriptions of eight new collections and a revised phylogenetic tree for the Distoseptisporales.

Rigid bioplastics shape the microbial communities involved in the treatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste

While bioplastics are gaining wide interest in replacing conventional plastics, it is necessary to understand whether the treatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) as an end-of-life option is compatible with their biodegradation and their possible role in shaping the microbial communities involved in the processes. In the present work, we assessed the microbiological impact of rigid polylactic acid (PLA) and starch-based bioplastics (SBB) spoons on the thermophilic anaerobic digestion and the aerobic composting of OFMSW under real plant conditions. In order to thoroughly evaluate the effect of PLA and SBB on the bacterial, archaeal, and fungal communities during the process, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technology was carried out. The results suggest that bioplastics shape the communities' structure, especially in the aerobic phase. Distinctive bacterial and fungal sequences were found for SBB compared to the positive control, which showed a more limited diversity. Mucor racemosus was especially abundant in composts from bioplastics' treatment, whereas Penicillium roqueforti was found only in compost from PLA and Thermomyces lanuginosus in that from SBB. This work shed a light on the microbial communities involved in the OFMSW treatment with and without the presence of bioplastics, using a new approach to evaluate this end-of-life option.

Multigene phylogeny, morphology, and pathogenicity trials reveal novel Cytospora species involved in perennial canker disease of apple trees in Iran

In recent years, canker and die-back diseases have become a growing threat for the productivity and longevity of apple orchards in Iran. In this study, 131 Cytospora isolates were recovered from symptomatic tissues of apple trees in apple orchards of Iran. Multigene phylogenetic inference based on combined sequence data of ITS, act, rpb2, and tef1-α loci, supplemented with morphological characteristics and pathogenicity assay revealed four novel Cytospora species which were described as C. avicennae, C. azerbaijanica, C. ershadii, and C. iranica, and four known species, namely C. chrysosperma, C. parasitica, C. paratranslucens, and C. sorbicola. Also, C. sorbicola is newly reported on apple trees worldwide. Koch's postulates were fulfilled to confirm that all eight species in this study were pathogenic on apple trees in Iran, among which C. sorbicola was the most intensive species. The results of this study further highlight rich diversity among Cytospora species occurring on apple trees, revealing several novel Cytospora species on this host. The host range, geographical distribution, and economic significance of novel species on apple industry remains to be studied.

Morphology and phylogeny of ascomycetes associated with walnut trees (Juglans regia) in Sichuan province, China

In Sichuan province, walnuts, consisting of Juglans regia, Juglans sigillata, and the hybrid J. regia × J. sigillata, are commercially important edible nuts, and J. regia is the most widespread plant. To date, the diversity and distribution of fungi inhabiting on Juglans have not received enough attention, although there have been studies focusing on pathogens from fruit and stem. In order to update the checklist of fungi associated with Sichuan walnuts, a survey on fungi associated with the three Juglans species from 15 representative regions in Sichuan was conducted. In this article, ten fungi distributed in two classes of Ascomycota (Dothideomycetes and Sordariomycetes) were described based on morpho-molecular analyses, and two novel species, Neofusicoccum sichuanense and Sphaerulina juglandina, a known species of Ophiognomonia leptostyla, and seven new hosts or geographical records of Cladosporium tenuissimum, Diatrypella vulgaris, Helminthosporium juglandinum, Helminthosporium velutinum, Loculosulcatispora hongheensis, Periconia byssoides, and Rhytidhysteron subrufulum were included. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of these fungi are provided.

Additions to Neopestalotiopsis (Amphisphaeriales, Sporocadaceae) fungi: two new species and one new host record from China

Background

In this study, three Neopestalotiopsis taxa were identified, associated with leaves of Zingiberofficinale, Elaeagnuspungens and Salaccazalacca.

New information

Based on morphology and multi-gene analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), beta-tubulin (TUB2) and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1), the five strains of Neopestalotiopsis represent two novel and one known species. They are introduced with descriptions, illustrations and notes herein.

Anamorphic chaetosphaeriaceous fungi from China

Chaetosphaeriaceae is one of the largest families in Sordariomycetes with its members commonly found on decaying leaf, fruit, branch, bark and wood in both terrestrial and submerged environment in nature. This paper reports our research result of diversity, taxonomy and phylogeny of anamorphic Chaetosphaeriaceae in China, which is based on a systematic study with an integrated approach of morphological observation and phylogenetic analysis for a large collection (> 1300 herbarium specimens and 1100 living strains). The family Chaetosphaeriaceae is expanded to accommodate 89 accepted genera, including 22 new genera and 10 newly assigned genera. Most of these genera (except for Chaetosphaeria and several other relatively large genera) are delimitated as monophyletic genera with well-defined diagnostic characters in morphology. The phylogenetic connection of non-phialidic Sporidesmium-like fungi is further confirmed and expanded to 10 different genera. The polyphyletic Codinaea/Dictyochaeta/Tainosphaeria complex is further resolved with a taxonomic framework of 28 monophyletic genera by redelimitation of Codinaea and Dictyochaeta with narrower concept, acceptance of the 16 established genera, and finally introduction of 10 new genera. Chloridium is phylogenetically redefined as monophyletic genus with narrower concept as typified by the type species, but a systematic review in both generic and species level is still needed. For biodiversity of chaetosphaeriaceous fungi, a total of 369 species in 76 genera, including 119 new species, 47 new combinations, and one new name, are documented. The identification keys are provided for most genera, especially the large genera such as Codinaea s. str., Codinaeella, Stilbochaeta, Cryptophiale, Thozetella, Dinemasporium and Pseudolachnella. In addition, ten known species were excluded from the family and reclassified. Systematic revision of several relatively large polyphyletic genera should be conducted in future studies, including Bahusutrabeeja, Ellisembia, Stanjehughesia, Cacumisporium, Chaetosphaeria, Chloridium, Craspedodidymum, Cryptophiale, Cryptophialoidea, Dictyochaetopsis, Minimidochium, and many published species of Codinaea and Dictyochaeta.

Short-term application of chicken manure under different nitrogen rates alters structure and co-occurrence pattern but not diversity of soil microbial community in wheat field

Manure application is an effective way to improve the utilization efficiency of organic resources and alleviate the adverse effects of long-term application of chemical fertilizers. However, the impact of applying manure under different nitrogen rates on soil microbial community in wheat field remains unclear. Treatments with and without chicken manure application under three nitrogen rates (N 135, 180 and 225 kg⋅hm–2) were set in wheat field. Soil organic carbon, available nutrients, and abundance, diversity, structure and co-occurrence pattern of soil microbial community at wheat maturity were investigated. Compared with no manure application, chicken manure application increased the soil organic carbon and available phosphorus, while the effects on soil mineral nitrogen and available potassium varied with different nitrogen rates. Chicken manure application significantly increased soil bacterial abundance under the nitrogen fertilization of 135 and 225 kg⋅hm–2, increased soil fungal abundance under the nitrogen fertilization of 135 kg⋅hm–2, but decreased soil fungal abundance under the nitrogen fertilization of 180 and 225 kg⋅hm–2 (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in alpha diversity indices of soil microbial communities between treatments with and without chicken manure application under different nitrogen rates (P > 0.05). Chicken manure application and its interaction with nitrogen rate significantly changed soil bacterial and fungal community structures (P < 0.05). There were significantly different taxa of soil microbial communities between treatments with and without chicken manure application. Chicken manure application reduced the ecological network complexity of soil bacterial community and increased that of soil fungal community. In summary, the responses of soil available nutrients and microbial abundance to applying chicken manure varied with different nitrogen rates. One growing season application of chicken manure was sufficient to alter the soil microbial community structure, composition and co-occurrence pattern, whereas not significantly affected soil microbial community diversity.

New Species of Discosia rhododendricola, Neopestalotiopsis rhododendricola and New Geographical Record of Diaporthe nobilis from Rhododendron sp

In the present study, we report two new asexual fungal species (i.e., Discosia rhododendricola, Neopestalotiopsis rhododendricola (Sporocadaceae) and a new host for a previously described species (i.e., Diaporthe nobilis; Diaporthaceae). All species were isolated from Rhododendron spp. in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. All taxa are described based on morphology, and phylogenetic relationships were inferred using a multigenic approach (LSU, ITS, RPB2, TEF1 and TUB2). The phylogenetic analyses indicated that D. rhododendronicola sp. nov. is phylogenetically related to D. muscicola, and N. rhododendricola sp. nov is related to N. sonnaratae. Diaporthe nobilis is reported herein as a new host record from Rhododendron sp. for China, and its phylogeny is depicted based on ITS, TEF1 and TUB2 sequence data.

Insights into taxonomic diversity and bioprospecting potential of Cerrado endophytic fungi: a review exploring an unique Brazilian biome and methodological limitations

Cerrado is the second largest biome in Brazil, and it is known for harboring a wide variety of endemic plant and microbial species, among which are endophytic fungi. Endophytic fungi are microorganisms capable of colonizing the interior of plant tissues without causing disease in host plants. Especially in the Cerrado biome, this group of microorganisms is still poorly studied and information on species estimation, ecological and evolutionary importance is not accurate and remains unknown. Also, it is extremely important to emphasize that great part of studies available on Cerrado endophytic fungi are national literature, including master's dissertations, course conclusion works or unpublished doctoral theses. The majority of these studies has highlighted that the endemic plant species are an important habitat for fungal endophytes, and new species have increasingly been described. Due to the lack of international literature on Cerrado endophytic fungi, the present review brings a bibliographic survey on taxonomic diversity and bioprospecting potential of fungal endophytes from a unique environment. This review also emphasizes the importance of studying Brazilian endophytic fungi from Cerrado as a source of new technologies (biofertilizer and biocontroller), since they are secondary metabolite-producing organisms with different biological activities for biotechnological, agricultural and pharmaceutical applications.

Diaporthe citri: A Fungal Pathogen Causing Melanose Disease

Citrus melanose is a fungal disease caused by Diaporthe citri F.A. Wolf. It is found in various citrus-growing locations across the world. The host range of D. citri is limited to plants of the Citrus genus. The most economically important hosts are Citrus reticulata (mandarin), C. sinensis (sweet orange), C. grandis or C. maxima (pumelo), and C. paradisi (grapefruit). In the life cycle of D. citri throughout the citrus growing season, pycnidia can be seen in abundance on dead branches, especially after rain, with conidia appearing as slimy masses discharged from the dead twigs. Raindrops can transmit conidia to leaves, twigs, and fruits, resulting in disease dispersion throughout small distances. Persistent rains and warm climatic conditions generally favor disease onset and development. The melanose disease causes a decline in fruit quality, which lowers the value of fruits during marketing and exportation. High rainfall areas should avoid planting susceptible varieties. In this article, information about the disease symptoms, history, geographic distribution, epidemiology, impact, and integrated management practices, as well as the pathogen morphology and identification, was reviewed and discussed.

Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Five New Species in Chaetosphaeriaceae

Chaetosphaeriaceae is a genera-rich and highly diverse group of fungi with a worldwide distribution in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Eight fresh collections of Chaetosphaeriaceae were obtained during investigations of hyaline-spored hyphomycetes in China and Thailand. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of a combined LSU and ITS sequence dataset, Chaetosphaeria obovoidea, Codinaea aseptata, Codinaeella hyalina, Dictyochaeta guizhouensis and Paragaeumannomyces guttulatus were introduced as new species, Codinaea terminalis was reported as new host record, and Codinaea dwaya and Phialosporostilbe scutiformis were introduced as new collections. Phylogenetic analysis in this study revealed that Chaetosphaeria was polyphyletic. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of new taxa and identified species are provided, as well as an updated phylogenetic tree to confirm the placements of these eight new collections.

Assessment of the antioxidative response and culturable micro-organisms of Lygeum spartum Loefl. ex L. for prospective phytoremediation applications

Abundant plant species in arid industrial areas are mining phyto-resources for sustainable phyto-management. However, the association with their rhizosphere is still poorly known for phytoremediation purposes. This study aims to assess the heavy metals (HMs) and metalloids uptake of Lygeum spartum Loefl. ex L. growing in cement plant vicinity and screen associated culturome for potential phytoremediation use. Bioaccumulation factor (BAF), the translocation factor (TF), and the mobility ratio (MR) were studied along with four sites. Lipid peroxidation (MDA), free proline (Pro), Non-protein thiols (NPTs), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were tested for evaluating the plant antioxidative response. Bacteria and fungi associated with L. spartum Loefl. ex L. were identified by 16S rRNA and fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-ITS2) gene sequencing. Our results showed an efficient uptake of As, Pb, and Zn and enhanced GSH (0.34 ± 0.03) and NPTs (528.7 ± 14.4 nmol g^-1 FW) concentrations in the highly polluted site. No significant variation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) was found. Among 29 bacterial isolates, potential bioremediation were Bacillus simplex and Bacillus atrophaeus. Thus, L. spartum Loefl. ex L. and its associated microbiota have the potential for phytoremediation applications. Novelty statement: This work has been set in line with the investigation of the integrative biology of Lygeum spartum Loefl ex L. and the screening of its associated microbiome for potential phytoremediation applications. This work is the first work conducted in a cement plant vicinity investigating the associated fungi and bacteria of L. spartum Loefl. ex L. and been part of a sectorial research project since 2011, for assessing the impact of industrial pollution and recognizing the accumulation potential of plant species for further phyto-management applications.

The Effects of Drainage on the Soil Fungal Community in Freshwater Wetlands

Wetland drainage has been intensively implemented globally, and it has exerted significant effects on wetland ecosystems. The effects of wetland drainage on the soil fungal community remain to be clarified. Soil samples were collected at depths of 0–5 and 5–10 cm in freshwater Phragmites australis wetlands to investigate changes in the fungal community before and after drainage (termed FW and DFW, respectively) using high-throughput sequencing of the fungal-specific internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) gene region. No significant differences in the α diversity of the soil fungal community were found in 0–10 cm soils between FW and DFW (p > 0.05), except for the abundance-based coverage estimator (ACE) and Chao1 indices in 5–10 cm soils. Significantly higher values of ACE and Chao1 in 5–10 cm soils in FW than in DFW indicated that wetland drainage may reduce fungal community richness in 5–10 cm soils. Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes, and Cephalothecaceae were the dominant fungal phylum, class, and family, respectively, in 0–5 and 5–10 cm soils of both FW and DFW, representing as high as 76.17, 58.22, and 45.21% of the fungal community in 5–10 FW soils, respectively. Saprotrophic fungi predominated in both FW and DFW. Drainage altered both the fungal community structure and some edaphic factors. Mantel tests and Spearman correlation analyses implied that edaphic factors [i.e., soil organic matter (SOM), electronic conductivity (EC), pH, and clay] also affected soil fungal community structure. Overall, wetland drainage altered the community structure of the fungal community in the freshwater wetlands.

Taxonomy, Phylogenetic and Ancestral Area Reconstruction in Phyllachora, with Four Novel Species from Northwestern China

The members of Phyllachora are biotrophic, obligate plant parasitic fungi featuring a high degree of host specificity. This genus also features a high degree of species richness and worldwide distribution. In this study, four species occurring on leaf and stem of two different species of grass were collected from Shanxi and Shaanxi Provinces, China. Based on morphological analysis, multigene (combined data set of LSU, SSU, and ITS) phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood and Bayesian analysis), and host relationship, we introduce herein four new taxa of Phyllachora. Ancestral area reconstruction analysis showed that the ancestral area of Phyllachora occurred in Latin America about 194 Mya. Novel taxa are compared with the related Phyllachora species. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and notes are provided for each species.

Hagnosa longicapillata, gen. nov., sp. nov., a New Sordariaceous ascomycete in the Indoor Environment, and the Proposal of Hagnosaceae fam. nov

Hagnosa longicapillata, gen. nov., sp. nov, is described and illustrated from wooden building materials collected in Hungary and from pure culture. This species has been collected exclusively from indoor environments, where it was quite common. The ascocarps develop in a thick layer of brown, woolly mats of mycelia. The ostiolar region of the perithecia is ornamented with a five-lobed, flower-shaped crown. Asci are four-spored; ascospores are dark brown, smooth, muriform, not constricted at the septa, and liberated mostly through crackings of the thin ascomatal wall. Apparently, ascospores are dispersed by the mechanical disturbance of the mycelial web. In the phylogenetic tree, Hagnosa samples were placed as a basal lineage, independently from the other family of Sordariomycetidae, with high support. To place Hagnosa in Sordariales, the new family, Hagnosaceae, is proposed.

The numbers of fungi: contributions from traditional taxonomic studies and challenges of metabarcoding

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated using several different approaches. There is somewhere between 2–11 million estimated species, but the number of formally described taxa is around 150,000, a tiny fraction of the total. In this paper, we examine 12 ascomycete genera as case studies to establish trends in fungal species descriptions, and introduce new species in each genus. To highlight the importance of traditional morpho-molecular methods in publishing new species, we introduce novel taxa in 12 genera that are considered to have low species discovery. We discuss whether the species are likely to be rare or due to a lack of extensive sampling and classification. The genera are Apiospora, Bambusicola, Beltrania, Capronia, Distoseptispora, Endocalyx, Neocatenulostroma, Neodeightonia, Paraconiothyrium, Peroneutypa, Phaeoacremonium and Vanakripa. We discuss host-specificity in selected genera and compare the number of species epithets in each genus with the number of ITS (barcode) sequences deposited in GenBank and UNITE. We furthermore discuss the relationship between the divergence times of these genera with those of their hosts. We hypothesize whether there might be more species in these genera and discuss hosts and habitats that should be investigated for novel species discovery.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of Sporocadaceae from Hainan, China

Species of Sporocadaceae have often been reported as plant pathogens, endophytes or saprophytes and are commonly isolated from a wide range of plant hosts. The isolated fungi were studied through a complete examination, based on multilocus phylogenies from combined datasets of ITS/tub2/tef1, in conjunction with morphological characteristics. Nine strains were isolated from Ficusmicrocarpa, Ilexchinensis and Schimasuperba in China which represented four species, viz., Monochaetiaschimaesp. nov., Neopestalotiopsishaikouensissp. nov., Neopestalotiopsispiceana and Pestalotiopsislicualicola. Neopestalotiopsispiceana was a new country record for China and first host record from Ficusmacrocarpa. Pestalotiopsislicualicola was first report from Ilexchinensis in China.

Multigene Phylogeny Reveals Endophytic Xylariales Novelties from Dendrobium Species from Southwestern China and Northern Thailand

Xylariales are common endophytes of Dendrobium. However, xylarialean species resolution remains difficult without sequence data and poor sporulation on artificial media and asexual descriptions for only several species and old type material. The surface-sterilized and morph-molecular methods were used for fungal isolation and identification. A total of forty-seven strains were identified as twenty-three species belonging to Apiosporaceae, Hypoxylaceae, Induratiaceae, and Xylariaceae. Five new species—Annulohypoxylon moniliformis, Apiospora dendrobii, Hypoxylon endophyticum, H. officinalis and Nemania dendrobii were discovered. Three tentative new species were speculated in Xylaria. Thirteen known fungal species from Hypoxylon, Nemania, Nigrospora, and Xylaria were also identified. Another two strains were only identified at the genus and family level (Induratia sp., Hypoxylaceae sp.). This study recorded 12 new hosts for xylarialean endophytes. This is the first report of Xylariales species as endophytes from Dendrobium aurantiacum var. denneanum, D. cariniferum, D. harveyanum, D. hercoglossum, D. moniliforme, and D. moschatum. Dendrobium is associated with abundant xylarialean taxa, especially species of Hypoxylon and Xylaria. We recommend the use of oat agar with low concentrations to induce sporulation of Xylaria strains.

Current Insight into Traditional and Modern Methods in Fungal Diversity Estimates

Fungi are an important and diverse component in various ecosystems. The methods to identify different fungi are an important step in any mycological study. Classical methods of fungal identification, which rely mainly on morphological characteristics and modern use of DNA based molecular techniques, have proven to be very helpful to explore their taxonomic identity. In the present compilation, we provide detailed information on estimates of fungi provided by different mycologistsover time. Along with this, a comprehensive analysis of the importance of classical and molecular methods is also presented. In orderto understand the utility of genus and species specific markers in fungal identification, a polyphasic approach to investigate various fungi is also presented in this paper. An account of the study of various fungi based on culture-based and cultureindependent methods is also provided here to understand the development and significance of both approaches. The available information on classical and modern methods compiled in this study revealed that the DNA based molecular studies are still scant, and more studies are required to achieve the accurate estimation of fungi present on earth.

A new endophytic fungus CJAN1179 isolated from the Cholistan desert promotes lateral root growth in Arabidopsis and produces IAA through tryptophan-dependent pathway

Fungi, important for growth of plants in arid lands, are expected to be involved in novel biochemical activities during fungal–plant interactions. We isolated 150 fungi associated with rhizosphere and root endosphere of two perennial grasses, Cymbopogon jwarancusa and Panicum antidotale, from Cholistan desert. The isolates were screened for their impact on plant growth and development using Arabidopsis thaliana (Col-0) as a model system. A root-endophytic fungus CJAN1179 from C. jwarancusa showed the highest plant growth-promoting effects. The most remarkable was enhanced number of lateral roots (3.1-fold). CJAN1179 produced indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) particularly in the presence of tryptophan. ITS sequence and phylogenetic analysis characterisation suggested the fungus to be a new species within Sordariomycetidae. CJAN1179 appears to promote plant growth by secreting IAA using tryptophan as a precursor. This fungus can be further explored for its suitability to promote growth of commercially important crops, particularly in arid regions.

Predicting global numbers of teleomorphic ascomycetes

Sexual reproduction is the basic way to form high genetic diversity and it is beneficial in evolution and speciation of fungi. The global diversity of teleomorphic species in Ascomycota has not been estimated. This paper estimates the species number for sexual ascomycetes based on five different estimation approaches, viz. by numbers of described fungi, by fungus:substrate ratio, by ecological distribution, by meta-DNA barcoding or culture-independent studies and by previous estimates of species in Ascomycota. The assumptions were made with the currently most accepted, “2.2–3.8 million” species estimate and results of previous studies concluding that 90% of the described ascomycetes reproduce sexually. The Catalogue of Life, Species Fungorum and published research were used for data procurement. The average value of teleomorphic species in Ascomycota from all methods is 1.86 million, ranging from 1.37 to 2.56 million. However, only around 83,000 teleomorphic species have been described in Ascomycota and deposited in data repositories. The ratio between described teleomorphic ascomycetes to predicted teleomorphic ascomycetes is 1:22. Therefore, where are the undiscovered teleomorphic ascomycetes? The undescribed species are no doubt to be found in biodiversity hot spots, poorly-studied areas and species complexes. Other poorly studied niches include extremophiles, lichenicolous fungi, human pathogens, marine fungi, and fungicolous fungi. Undescribed species are present in unexamined collections in specimen repositories or incompletely described earlier species. Nomenclatural issues, such as the use of separate names for teleomorph and anamorphs, synonyms, conspecific names, illegitimate and invalid names also affect the number of described species. Interspecies introgression results in new species, while species numbers are reduced by extinctions.

Neomonodictys aquatica sp. nov. (Pleurotheciaceae) from a plateau lake in Yunnan Province, China

Background

In this study, a new species Neomonodictysaquatica was collected from submerged decaying wood in Erhai Lake, Yunnan Province, China.

New information

Neomonodictysaquatica is characterised by acrogenous, solitary, oval, dictyospores (most are transverse septum, occasionally vertical septum, in immaturity the septum is clear, but when mature, the conidia becomes darker so the septum is not clear), smooth-walled conidia. The immature conidia are usually hyaline to olivaceous and mature conidia are usually darkened to black, sometimes with one pale basal cell. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and LSU sequence data showed that the new collection is distinct from other Neomonodictys species. Description and illustration are provided as well.

Niches and Seasonal Changes, Rather Than Transgenic Events, Affect the Microbial Community of Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’

Exploring the complex spatiotemporal changes and colonization mechanism of microbial communities will enable microbial communities to be better used to serve agricultural and ecological operations. In addition, evaluating the impact of transgenic plants on endogenous microbial communities is necessary for their commercial application. In this study, microbial communities of Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ carrying Cry1Ac-Cry3A-BADH genes (ECAA1 line), Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ carrying Cry1Ac-Cry3A-NTHK1 genes (ECAB1 line), and non-transgenic Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ from rhizosphere soil, roots, and phloem collected in different seasons were compared and analyzed. Our analyses indicate that the richness and diversity of bacterial communities were higher in the three Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ habitats than in those of fungi. Bacterial and fungal genetic-distance-clustering results were similar; rhizosphere soil clustered in one category, with roots and phloem in another. The diversity and evenness values of the microbial community were: rhizosphere soil > phloem > root system. The bacterial communities in the three habitats were dominated by the Proteobacteria, and fungal communities were dominated by the Ascomycota. The community composition and abundance of each part were quite different; those of Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ were similar among seasons, but community abundance fluctuated. Seasonal fluctuation in the bacterial community was greatest in rhizosphere soil, while that of the fungal community was greatest in phloem. The transgenic lines ECAA1 and ECAB1 had a bacterial and fungal community composition similar to that of the control samples, with no significant differences in community structure or diversity among the lines. The abundances of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were low, and differed significantly among the lines. These differences did not affect the functioning of the whole specific community. Sampling time and location were the main driving factors of changes in the Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ microbial community. Transgenic events did not affect the Populus × euramericana ‘Neva’ rhizosphere or endophytic microbial communities. This study provides a reference for the safety evaluation of transgenic plants and the internal colonization mechanism of microorganisms in plants.

Reassessment of Dyfrolomyces and Four New Species of Melomastia from Olive (Olea europaea) in Sichuan Province, China

Pleurotremataceae species are saprobes on decaying wood in terrestrial, mangrove, and freshwater habitats. The generic boundary of the family has traditionally been based on morphology. All genera of Pleurotremataceae have a high degree of morphological overlap, of which the generic circumscription of Melomastia and Dyfrolomyces has not been well resolved. Thus, the delimitation of genera has always been challenging. Melomastia traditionally differs from Dyfrolomyces in having 2-septate, oblong, with obtuse-ends ascospores. These main characteristics have been used to distinguish Melomastia from Dyfrolomyces for a long time. However, the above characteristics sometimes overlap among Dyfrolomyces and Melomastia species. Based on the morphology and multigene phylogeny with newly obtained data, we synonymized Dyfrolomyces under Melomastia following up-to-date results. Four novel species (i.e., Melomastia fusispora, M. oleae, M. sichuanensis and M. winteri) collected from the dead branches of Olea europaea L. in Chengdu Olive Base, Sichuan Province in China are introduced based on detailed morphological characterization and phylogenetic analyses of sequences based on nuclear ribosomal (LSU and SSU) and protein-coding gene (tef1-α). The 11 new combinations proposed are Melomastia aquatica (=Dyfrolomyces aquaticus), M. chromolaenae (=D. chromolaenae), M. distoseptata (=D. distoseptatus), M. mangrovei (=D. mangrovei), M. marinospora (=D. marinosporus), M. neothailandica (=D. neothailandicus), M. phetchaburiensis (=D. phetchaburiensis), M. sinensis (=D. sinensis), M. thailandica (=D. thailandica), M. thamplaensis (=D. thamplaensis) and M. tiomanensis (=D. tiomanensis).