2022
Resolving the Phylogenetic Placement of Gangliostilbe in the Family Xenospadicoidaceae (Xenospadicoidales)
Sneha Lad, Kunhiraman C. Rajeshkumar, Paraparath O. Sruthi, Nikhil Ashtekar, Abdulsalim P. Ansil, Rajnish K. Verma, Nalin N. Wijayawardene
MycoAsia 2022/01. [Article Link]
Abstract: This study resolves the phylogenetic position of an anamorphic synnematous genus, Gangliostilbe (typified by G. indica), collected from the Northern Western Ghats of India. Gangliostilbe can be distinguished based on its erect synnemata, simple, dark-coloured, well-defined stalk, a subglobose to clavate head, and solitary, acrogenous, brown, phragmoconidia having three or more septa that secede through gangliar conidiogenesis. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS and LSU sequence data supported the placement of Gangliostilbe in Xenospadicoidaceae (Xenospadicoidales). Gangliostilbe is the only genus in Xenospadicoidaceae having synnematous conidiomata and gangliar conidiogenesis.
Plain Language Summary: This study clarifies the evolutionary relationships of a unique fungus, Gangliostilbe~indica, found in India’s Northern Western Ghats. This fungus is distinguished by its upright, dark stalks with a club-shaped head that produces dark, multi-celled spores. By analyzing its DNA, scientists confirmed its position in the fungal family tree, placing it within the Xenospadicoidaceae family. This is a significant finding because Gangliostilbe is the only known member of this family to possess these distinct stalk-like structures and a specific method of spore formation, highlighting the unique fungal biodiversity of the region.
Resupinatus poriaeformis (Agaricomycetes), a New Record from India
Suhaib Firdous Yatoo, Shoeib Mujeeb Sheikh
MycoAsia 2022/02. [Article Link]
Abstract: The Himalayas are remarkably diverse and unique in terms of flora and fauna. Most of the Himalayan regions of India are either unexplored or poorly explored. Resupinatus poriaeformis is reported here as a new record from India. A morphological description is presented along with the taxonomic and ecological notes.
Plain Language Summary: The Indian Himalayas are a hotspot for unique plants and animals, yet many areas remain largely unexplored. During a survey in this region, scientists discovered a fungus, Resupinatus~poriaeformis, that has never been documented in India before. This new record highlights the hidden biodiversity of the mountains. The study provides the first detailed description of the Indian specimen’s appearance and its role in the local ecosystem. Such finds underscore the importance of exploring these remote areas to fully understand and conserve the rich life they hold.
The First Updated Checklist of Novel Fungi in Pakistan (1947–2021)
Mubashar Raza, Lei Cai, Muhammad Waseem Abbasi, Rahila Hafeez, Marium Tariq, Paul M. Kirk, Muzammil Hussain, Nalin N. Wijayawardene
MycoAsia 2022/03. [Article Link]
Abstract: The role of fungi in both natural and managed ecosystem processes is unequivocal, with mycotaxa being key drivers of soil, plant, and animal health. Recent advances in DNA-based species identification and classification have enforced mycologists to update national checklists for proper exploitation of fungal traits and functions. However, in some countries like Pakistan, a comprehensive checklist of fungal diversity, distribution, and their host range is still lacking. Herein, we summarize novel fungal species (including both macro- and micro-fungi) for the first time from distinct geographical locations of Pakistan. A total of 742 novel fungal species in 7 phyla have been reported in Pakistan since 1947, including 136 ambiguous species (as a result of cryptic species, taxonomy revisions, and lack of DNA sequence data) and 113 species with DNA sequence data. The compilation of the fungal name list provides an overview of the currently known fungal taxa in Pakistan and enables the assessment of the knowledge gap on the fungal biodiversity in comparison to the rest of the world. The current checklist will serve as a foundation for new fungi names to be added in the future and can be used as a reference by mycologists to retrieve fungal species from existing culture banks in Pakistan mentioned on the website www.fungiofpakistan.com to exploit their functional traits in the food industry, health sectors, and for sustainable agriculture in Pakistan.
Plain Language Summary: Fungi are vital for healthy ecosystems, but a complete list of fungal species in Pakistan has been missing. This study addresses that gap by creating the first comprehensive checklist of new fungi discovered in the country since 1947. Researchers compiled a list of 742 species, noting that many still require modern DNA analysis for precise identification. This foundational list provides a crucial overview of Pakistan’s fungal biodiversity. It will help scientists in the future to discover new species and to find and use these fungi for practical applications in agriculture, food production, and medicine.
Recent Surge of Mucormycosis in COVID-19 Patients: Clinicians’ Perspective from Systems Genomics
Sudhir Mehta, Krishna Mohan Medicherla, Ayyagari Subramanyam, PB Kavi Kishor, Prashanth Suravajhala
MycoAsia 2022/04. [Article Link]
Abstract: Mucormycosis has been largely associated with COVID-19 patients. With the growing number of cases, there is an immediate need to understand the treatment regimen for COVID-19 which could predispose to mucormycosis infection. The authors have highlighted the points from clinicians’ perspective.
Plain Language Summary: Mucormycosis, a serious fungal infection, has been increasingly reported in COVID-19 patients. With cases on the rise, there is an urgent need to figure out which specific COVID-19 treatments might be making patients more vulnerable to this secondary infection. This review examines the issue from a doctor’s perspective, highlighting the potential risk factors within the treatment process. Understanding this connection is a critical step toward preventing mucormycosis and ensuring safer outcomes for patients battling COVID-19.
Do Fungal Spore Morphological Traits Correlate with Allergenicity?
Raphael R. Sanvictores, Michelle Charina C. Gomez, Stephen Louie R. Briones, Wan Teng M. Chang, Adrianne Marie A. Morales, Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac, Thomas Edison E. dela Cruz
MycoAsia 2022/05. [Article Link]
Abstract: Fungal spores, like pollen, are identified as sources of allergens, yet fungal spore morphology, unlike pollen morphology, has not been correlated with allergenicity. In this study, we listed allergenic fungi reported from published literature and gathered information about their spore morphologies including the species’ lifestyle, the ability to produce mycotoxins, and the types of hypersensitivity reactions they induced. We tested the association of these spore traits with the hypersensitivity reaction through correspondence analysis with Chi-square as the measure of distance. Our research listed a total of 158 species of allergenic fungi belonging to 82 genera and 30 taxonomic orders. Most of the species (n = 122) elicited a Type I hypersensitivity reaction while 33 species had more than one hypersensitivity type (Types I-III-IV). The most common allergenic fungi belong to the genus Alternaria (41 species). Two fungal taxa commonly found in spoiled food, Penicillium (9 species) and Aspergillus (8 species), were also listed as allergenic. We did not find any strong correlation between allergenic reaction with the following spore traits: shape, texture, color, size, appendages, and with the type of spores, presence of mycotoxins, and the species lifestyle. However, spore length and width were positively associated with hypersensitivity reaction. Allergenic fungi with short and/or narrow spores can likely cause multiple types of hypersensitivity reactions while fungi with large and/or wide spores can induce either Type I or Type III hypersensitivity reaction. Our research study provides interesting insights into the role of fungal spore morphologies in human allergenicity.
Plain Language Summary: Like pollen, fungal spores are a major source of allergens, but it’s been unclear if a spore’s physical characteristics influence the allergies they cause. This study analyzed 158 allergenic fungi to find a link. Researchers found that while traits like shape and color had no strong connection to allergic reactions, spore size did matter. Fungi with smaller, narrower spores were more likely to cause multiple types of allergic reactions. In contrast, those with larger, wider spores tended to trigger more specific allergy types. This provides new insight into how a spore’s physical size can predict its effect on humans.
Fruit Brown Rot Caused by Neoscytalidium dimidiatum on Selenicereus monacanthus in the Philippines
Mark Angelo Balendres, John Darby Taguiam, Edzel Evallo, Jaypee Estigoy, Cris Cortaga
MycoAsia 2022/06. [Article Link]
Abstract: Multiple fungal pathogens infect economically important fruits, thereby affecting their quality and marketability. Previous research showed that some fungal pathogens that can infect the stems might infect the fruit but show a different symptom. To determine the causal pathogen of a fruit disease of Selenicereus monacanthus (Dragon fruit), we used a combination of fungal pathology characterization and molecular biology techniques. This paper presents the pathogenicity of Neoscytalidium dimidiatum MBDF36C to S. monacanthus resulting in brown rot and canker on fruits and stem, respectively. The paper also demonstrates the in vitro inhibition of N. dimidiatum MBDF36C by chemicals, including a bio-fungicide containing Bacillus subtilis. At seven days post-inoculation, we observed severe browning on N. dimidiatum MBDF36C-inoculated fruits but not on stems. Stems exhibited canker-like symptoms. The same fungus was re-isolated from both inoculated diseased fruits and stems, thereby confirming Koch’s postulates. The pathogen was identified as N. dimidiatum based on its morphology, cultural characteristics, and sequences of the partial ß-tubulin gene. In vitro growth of N. dimidiatum MBDF36C was also completely inhibited by a bio-fungicide containing B. subtilis, isoprothiolane, and mancozeb. This study is the first report of N. dimidiatum causing brown fruit rot of dragon fruit in the Philippines. This information could impact the current postharvest fruit handling operations and future studies on dragon fruit disease management.
Plain Language Summary: Fungal diseases can ruin valuable crops. In the Philippines, a previously unknown brown rot was damaging dragon fruit. Researchers identified the culprit as the fungus Neoscytalidium dimidiatum. They discovered that this same fungus causes brown rot on the fruit but creates different, canker-like sores on the plant’s stem. This is the first time this pathogen has been linked to dragon fruit rot in the country. Encouragingly, lab tests showed that a bio-fungicide containing the beneficial bacterium Bacillus subtilis completely stopped the harmful fungus’s growth, offering a promising, eco-friendly solution for disease management after harvest.
First Successful Cultivation and Nutritional Composition of Macrocybe gigantea in Sri Lanka
Mahesh C.A. Galappaththi, Yuan Lu, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Nirosha Wijewardena, Anuruddha Karunarathna, Mahesh Gamage, Aseni Navoda Ediriweera
MycoAsia 2022/07. [Article Link]
Abstract: The wild edible mushroom Macrocybe gigantea is widely consumed as one of the prime seasonal delicacies in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In this study, M. gigantea was identified through morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Spawn production and cultivation parameters of M. gigantea were investigated for the first time in Sri Lanka. The mycelial growth was observed in potato dextrose agar medium, while paddy grains were used for spawn production. A mixture containing rubber sawdust (100 kg), rice bran (18 kg), CaCO3 (2.5 kg), gypsum (1 kg), and MgSO4 (0.35 kg) was tested as a substrate for colonization bags. In addition, gene sequence-data, proximate analysis, energy value, and mineral elements of cultivated M. gigantea were studied. Mycelia in mushroom growth bags were cultivated under the temperature range of 27–30 ℃ and relative humidity of 60 %. Three weeks after inoculation, the primordia appeared and it took four additional days until the occurrence of young fruit bodies. A second flush was harvested 3 weeks after the first. Proximate analysis, energy value, and mineral element analysis were recorded as 85.3 % moisture, 0.8 % ash, 1.6 % fat, 2.3 % protein, 10.0 % carbohydrate, 0.28 % potassium (K), 0.00064 % iron (Fe), 0.0024 % sodium (Na), and energy 63.6 kcal/100g. This study provides valuable information concerning the cultivation and nutritional composition of M. gigantea in Sri Lanka.
Plain Language Summary: Macrocybe gigantea, a large and popular wild edible mushroom, can now be farmed in Sri Lanka. Researchers have developed the first successful cultivation method for the country, using a growing mixture based on rubber sawdust. The study outlines the entire process, from preparing mushroom “seeds” to harvesting two separate crops. A nutritional analysis revealed that the cultivated mushrooms are a good source of carbohydrates and contain important minerals like potassium. This work provides a valuable guide for local farmers to cultivate this delicacy and informs consumers about its health benefits, promoting food security and a new agricultural opportunity.
Two New Species and a New Record of Astrocystis from Southwestern China
Qi-Rui Li, You-Peng Wu, Yin-Hui Pi, Si-Han Long, Nalin N. Wijaywardene, Nakarin Suwannarach, Li-Li Liu
MycoAsia 2022/08. [Article Link]
Abstract: In this study, three species of Astrocystis were collected from bamboo culms in Guizhou and Yunnan Provinces in China. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses (based on ITS, rpb2, β-tubulin, and α-actin gene regions) supported the proposal of two new species, viz., Astrocystis pseudomirabilis sp. nov. and A. tessellati sp. nov., and a new record of A. sublimbata from China. Astrocystis pseudomirabilis can be distinguished from A. mirabilis by its larger stromata (0.64–0.83 × 0.38–0.52 mm vs. 0.4–0.6 × 0.2–0.5 mm) and larger ascospores (11–14 × 6–8 μm vs. 10–12 × 4.5–6 μm). Astrocystis tessellati differs from A. multiloculata by its smaller ascospores (16.2–19.2 × 7.2–9 μm vs. 19–25 × 7–11 μm). Astrocystis pseudomirabilis and A. tessellati form two distinct clades within Astrocystis.
Plain Language Summary: During a survey of fungi on bamboo in southern China, researchers made several new discoveries. Using both DNA analysis and physical examination, they identified two species entirely new to science, naming them Astrocystis pseudomirabilis and A. tessellati. A third species, A. sublimbata, was also documented for the first time in the country. The new species were distinguished from their close relatives by clear differences in the size of their spores and the fungal structures that contain them. This research adds to our understanding of the unique fungal biodiversity supported by bamboo ecosystems.
The Sexual Morph of Induratia coffeana, a New Record from Thailand
Qi-Rui Li, Ji-Chuan Kang
MycoAsia 2022/09. [Article Link]
Abstract: An induratia-like fungus was collected in Thailand from a deadwood piece of an unidentified plant. Phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, rpb2, and β-tubulin sequence data and morphological characteristics showed that the fungus is Induratia coffeana. Induratia coffeana differs from I. ziziphi, I. thailandica, and I. apiospora by its 2-celled ascospores with equal divisions. A full description, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of I. coffeana are provided. Induratia coffeana is reported herein as a new record for Thailand based on its sexual morph.
Plain Language Summary: While studying fungi in Thailand, researchers found an interesting specimen on a piece of deadwood. Using DNA analysis and examining its physical structure, they identified it as Induratia coffeana. This is a significant finding, as it’s the first time this species has ever been recorded in Thailand. The fungus can be distinguished from its close relatives by its unique reproductive spores, which are perfectly divided into two equal cells. This discovery adds a new species to Thailand’s known fungal diversity and provides a detailed guide for future identification.
Three Noteworthy Pleosporalean Fungi on Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) and Grapevine (Vitis sp.) from Qujing, Yunnan, P. R. China
Gui-Qing Zhang, Dong-Qin Dai, Nalin N. Wijayawardene
MycoAsia 2022/10. [Article Link]
Abstract: Three pleosporalean fungi were collected from Qujing, Yunnan, China. Morphological characterisation and multigene phylogenetic analyses confirmed that these fungi belong to the order Pleosporales but in different families. Alternaria alternata sensu lato (Pleosporaceae) is reported herein as a new geographical record from southwestern China. Neocucurbitaria juglandicola (Cucurbitariaceae) is reported from Magnolia grandiflora as a new host and country record. Phragmocamarosporium qujingensis (Lentitheciaceae) is reported from Vitis sp. for the first time. Morphological data, photographic illustrations, and descriptions are provided along with the phylogenetic trees.
Plain Language Summary: During a fungal survey in Yunnan, China, researchers made several first-time discoveries. They identified three different fungi, each with a new record. One species, Alternaria alternata, was documented in a new geographical location within southwestern China. Another, Neocucurbitaria juglandicola, was found for the first time in the country and on a new host plant—the magnolia tree. A third fungus, Phragmocamarosporium qujingensis, was reported for the first time on a grape vine. These findings help us better understand the distribution and plant associations of these fungi.