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Xiuguozhangia species are dematiaceous hyphomycetes that are characterised by acropleurogenous, dictyoseptate, campanulate or cheiroid, and brown to dark brown conidia that are composed of several layers of cells radiating from a protuberant basal cell, and mostly seen with appendages arising from the apical cells. The genus was introduced based on morphology to accommodate five of the six Piricaudiopsis species that exhibited holoblastic conidial ontogeny. Xiuguozhangia was referred to as Ascomycota genus incertae sedis as it was challenging to resolve its taxonomic placement based solely on the available morphological data (no DNA sequence data was previously available). In this study, we provide DNA sequence data for LSU, ITS, SSU, TEF1, and RPB2 for our isolates, collected from Broussonetia papyrifera (Moraceae) in northern Thailand. Based on morphology, we classify our isolates as Xiuguozhangia. Since they form a sister lineage to Pseudoberkleasmium, we place Xiuguozhangia in Pseudoberkleasmiaceae (Pleosporales). Within Xiuguozhangia, we establish these two isolates as a new taxon, Xiuguozhangia broussonetiae, in view of the presence of new conidiogenous cells developing from subtending cells. Xiuguozhangia broussonetiae differs from the extant species in the genus as it has longer conidiophores that are sometimes branched, comprising numerous septa, and its appendages are mostly untapered (sometimes tapering) towards the tips, a feature not observed in other Xiuguozhangia species. This is the first study to provide DNA sequence data and phylogenetic relationships for Xiuguozhangia. Furthermore, we analysed selected DNA sequence data and provided an updated phylogenetic tree incorporating all families (with representative genera) of Pleosporales.

In our study, dead stems of two Asteraceae species (weeds) were collected from northern Thailand. Both morphology and multigene phylogeny were used to determine the identity of the taxa. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses of combined LSU, SSU, ITS, tef1-α and rpb2 data revealed two new species Pseudoroussoella bidenticola, and Neoroussoella chromolaenae with one new host record of N. entadae. Preliminary investigation into antibacterial properties revealed that our three isolates inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, we present updated phylogenetic trees for Roussoellaceae, accompanied by detailed descriptions and illustrations of the three identified species.

This study introduces a novel genus Robiniigena, with its type R. hyalinospora. The specimen was collected on dead aerial branches of Robinia pseudoacacia in Italy. Based on the examination of morphology and the results of phylogenetic analyses involving nuclear 18S rDNA (SSU), nuclear 28S rDNA (LSU), nuclear rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) sequences, Robiniigena is referred to the family Pleomonodictydaceae (Pleosporales). It is characterized by immersed to erumpent, ostiolate ascomata, filiform, septate and cellular pseudoparaphyses, bitunicate, clavate to cylindric-clavate asci and fusiform, hyaline ascospores surrounded by a mucilaginous sheath. This research also establishes the taxonomic placement of the previously unclassified Inflatispora (Pleosporales genus incertae sedis) within the Pleomonodictydaceae. The sexual morph of Ampelomyces quisqualis (Phaeosphaeriaceae) is described for the first time and it is characterized by immersed, perithecial ascomata, a peridium comprising two layers, branched, septate and filiform pseudoparaphyses, short-pedicellate, bitunicate asci with an ocular chamber and sub-hyaline, fusiform, septate ascospores. This species, previously known only in its asexual morph, has been found as a saprobe on Sonchus sp. in Italy. Our identification of the sexual morph was based on LSU rDNA and ITS rDNA sequence data. Melomastia maolanensis (Pleurotremataceae) is reported for the first time in Thailand, collected from Chromolaena odorata, while M. oleae is documented as a new record from Duranta erecta in Thailand.

This study is based on three terrestrial saprobic fungi associated with Aquilaria in Guangdong and Yunnan provinces in China. All isolated species matched with generic concepts of Melomastia. Detailed morphological characteristics and combined multigene phylogeny of LSU, SSU, and TEF revealed that the new isolates represent two new species (Melomastia guangdongensis and M. yunnanensis), and one new host and geographical record (M. sinensis). Melomastia guangdongensis is distinct from the phylogenetically closest species in having semi-immersed to immersed, globose to subglobose ascomata, and two strata of the peridium. Melomastia yunnanensis differs from the phylogenetically closest species in having immersed ascomata, conical ostiolar canals, and branched pseudoparaphyses. The discovery of these two new species and one new record collected expands the number of saprobic species associated with Aquilaria from 28 to 31. Descriptions, photo plates, and phylogenetic analyses of taxa are provided.

Based on unique morphological features and phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU and ITS sequences, Paramirandina guttulata is established as the third species in Paramirandina, along with P. aquatica and P. cymbiformis. All three species of Paramirandina were reported from freshwater habitats in China.Paramirandina guttulata sp. nov. is a morphologically conspicuous hyphomycetes species, collected from a plateau lake (Dujuanhu Lake) in Yunnan Province, China. The key distinguishing characteristics of P. guttulata are scattered or gregarious conidiophores, polyblastic, terminal, sympodial conidiogenous cells and fusiform, cymbiform, 4–6-septate, guttulate, hyaline conidia that are solitary or in chains and with truncate base and obtuse apex. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided for the new species.

Palm fungi are a diverse and unique group mostly found on Arecaceae hosts. They have been studied for approximately 200 years resulting in a large number of known fungal species representing over 700 genera. The timeline of palm fungal studies could be roughly divided into three phases, based on the methods and frequency of reports. They are the “Historical palm fungi era”, “Classical palm fungi era” and “Molecular palm fungi era”. In the first two periods, the identification of palm fungi was based on morphology, which resulted in a considerable number of morphological species scattered across the data in books, monographs and papers. With the advancement of molecular techniques, studies on palm fungi accelerated. A large number of new species were introduced in the molecular era, especially from Asia, including China and Thailand. However, there is a necessity to link these three generations of studies into a single platform combining data related to host factors, geography and utilisation. Herein, we introduce the palm fungi website: https://palmfungi.org, an integrated data platform for interactive retrieval, based on palm and fungal species. This website is not only a portal for the latest, comprehensive species information on palm fungi, but also provides a new platform for fungal researchers to explore the host-specificity of palm fungi. Additionally, this study uses palmfungi.org and related data to briefly discuss the current status of research on the distribution of palm fungi populations, showing how palmfungi.org links fungi with their palm hosts. Furthermore, the website will act as a platform for collaboration amongst taxonomists, plant pathologists, botanists, ecologists and those who are interested in palms and their relationship with ecological sustainability.

During our investigation of microfungi on grasslands in Yunnan Province, China, three new fungal taxa associated with grasses were collected. Morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of the combined SSU, LSU, ITS, tef1-α, and rpb2 loci based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were used to reveal the taxonomic placement of these fungal taxa. This study introduces Parastagonospora yunnanensis, Para. zhaotongensis, Phaeoseptoriella poaceicola. Parastagonospora yunnanensis is characterized by ampulliform or globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells, with conidia that are cylindrical to subcylindrical, 0–1-septate, rounded at the apex and slightly truncate at the base. Parastagonospora zhaotongensis features similar globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells but with 0–3-septate, cylindrical to subcylindrical conidia. Phaeoseptoriella poaceicola is distinguished by its globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells and phragmosporous conidia that are initially hyaline, turn pale yellowish at maturity, and are 7-septate, cylindrical to subcylindrical, either straight or slightly curved. These discoveries underscore the significance of exploring and accurately identifying fungal taxa within Ascomycota, highlighting the species richness and potential for new species discoveries in grass-based habitats. The findings from this study expand our understanding of the taxonomy and phylogeny of grassland-associated Ascomycota, providing a foundation for further ecological and taxonomic studies of these fungi within their natural environments.

During a survey of microfungi associated with forest plants, four specimens related to Kirschsteiniothelia were collected from decaying wood in Guizhou, Hainan and Yunnan Provinces, China. Kirschsteiniothelia species have sexual and asexual forms. They are commonly found as saprophytes on decaying wood and have been reported as disease-causing pathogens in humans as well. In this study, we introduce three novel Kirschsteiniothelia species (K. bulbosapicalis, K. dendryphioides and K. longirostrata) and describe a new host record for K. atra, based on morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of a concatenated ITS, LSU and SSU rDNA sequence data. These taxa produced a dendryphiopsis- or sporidesmium-like asexual morph and detailed descriptions and micromorphological illustrations are provided. Furthermore, we provide a checklist for the accepted Kirschsteiniothelia species, including detailed host information, habitat preferences, molecular data, existing morphological type, country of origin and corresponding references.

Asexual species of Tubeufiaceae are characterised as helicosporous hyphomycetes and are abundantly discovered in tropical and subtropical regions. The present study collected helicosporous fungal samples from rotting tissues of Caryota mitis, Elaeis guineensis and E. oleifera in Xishuangbanna, Yunan Province, China. Fungal isolates were identified, based on the morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogeny with DNA sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), part of the large subunit nuclear rRNA gene (LSU), translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (tef 1-α) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit gene (rpb2). Herein, we introduce three new species viz. Helicoma oleifera, Neohelicosporium guineensis and N. xishuangbannaensis. In addition, we introduce two new host records of Helicoma guttulatum and H. rufum on Caryota mitis. The illustrations of all identified species, detailed descriptions and in-depth phylogenetic analyses are provided. Our results add new knowledge of fungal species associated with palm hosts in southern China. Moreover, our data will contribute to the biodiversity of fungi in tropical China.

In a comprehensive survey of fungi conducted in the northern (Chiang Rai Province) and southern (Narathiwat Province) regions of Thailand, several xylariales-like specimens were discovered. Through the integration of molecular phylogeny and morphological analyses, one previously undocumented taxon, Oxydothis narathiwatensis sp. nov., was identified, along with Xylaria bawanglingensis and Hypoxylon hypomiltum as new host and geographical records from Afzelia xylocarpa, and Dalbergia cana, respectively. In addition, Annulohypoxylon thailandicum was identified as a new host record from Swietenia macrophylla in Thailand. The morphological characters, including ascomata, asci, and ascospores, were compared with known Oxydothis, Xylaria, Hypoxylon, and Annulohypoxylon species. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, and SSU (for Oxydothidaceae), ITS, rpb2, tub2, and act (for Xylariaceae), and ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tub2 (for Hypoxylaceae) gene regions were carried out to refine the taxonomic classifications of these specimens further. This research contributes to understanding fungal diversity in these ecologically significant regions, highlighting insights into the relationships among xylariales-like species.

The phytopathogenic genus, Entomosporium can cause serious leaf diseases worldwide. Entomosporium has long been regarded as a synonym of Diplocarpon. However, different morphologies between Entomosporium and Diplocarpon make this doubtful. Based on morpho-phylogenetic analyses, the placement of the genus was re-evaluated in this study. The combined the internal transcribed spacer gene region (ITS) and the 28S large subunit ribosomal RNA gene region (LSU) phylogenetic analysis shows that Entomosporium is an independent clade within Drepanopezizaceae and formed a sister clade to the generic type Diplocarpon. Moreover, Hymenula and Pseudopeziza do not cluster in Drepanopezizaceae. We propose to resurrect the name Entomosporium, and exclude Hymenula cerealis and Pseudopeziza medicaginis from Drepanopezizaceae and propose to treat them under Ploettnerulaceae. A new species, E. dichotomanthes is also introduced from China based on morpho-molecular analyses which is associated with Dichotomanthes tristaniicarpa.

Abstract The debates over the requirement of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICNafp) for a viable specimen to represent the name-bearing type material for a species or infraspecific taxon have a long history. Taxonomy of fungi commonly studied as living cultures exemplified by yeasts and moulds, strongly depend on viable reference material. The availability of viable cultures is also particularly useful for several groups of filamentous and dimorphic fungi. While the preservation of metabolically inactive cultures is permitted and recommended by the ICNafp, there is room for improvement. Below, we review the history and current status of cultures as the name-bearing type material under the Code. We also present a roadmap with tasks to be achieved in order to establish a stable nomenclatural system that properly manages taxa typified by viable specimens. Furthermore, we propose setting up rules and defining the nomenclatural status of ex-type cultures under Chapter F, the section of the ICNafp that includes provisions specific to names of fungi.

Neohelicomyces species are a group of helicosporous hyphomycetes with the potential to produce secondary metabolites. During our investigation of helicosporous fungi, six collections were isolated from both terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Guizhou Province, China. Based on multigene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, LSU, tef1α and rpb2), coupled with morphological data, three new Neohelicomyces species, viz. N. guizhouensis, N. helicosporus and N. hydei were established. A list of accepted Neohelicomyces species with molecular data was provided. The strain of Neohelicomyces pallidus (UAMH 10535) was synonymised under N. denticulatus based on molecular data.

Abstract Chytrids, often overshadowed by their other fungal counterparts, take center stage as we unravel the mysteries surrounding new species within Rhizophydiales and explore their unique characteristics. In the broader spectrum of chytrids, their significance lies not only in their roles as decomposers but also as key players in nutrient cycling within aquatic ecosystems as parasites and saprobes. Baited soil and aquatic samples collected from various provinces of Thailand, yielded new species of the Rhizophydiales (Chytridiomycota), some of which expanded previously single species genera. Our investigation incorporated a combination of morphological and phylogenetic approaches, enabling us to identify these isolates as distinct taxa. The novel isolates possess distinguishing features, such as variations in size and shape of the sporangium and zoospores, that somewhat differentiate them from described taxa. To confirm the novelty of the species, we employed robust phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood and bayesian methods. The results provided strong support for the presence of eight distinct lineages within the Rhizophydiales, representing our newly discovered species. Furthermore, we employed Poisson Tree Processes to infer putative species boundaries and supplement evidence for the establishment of our new Rhizophydiales species. By meticulously exploring their morphological characteristics and genetic makeup, we expand the known catalogue of fungal diversity by describing Alphamyces thailandicus, Angulomyces ubonensis, Gorgonomyces aquaticus, G. chiangraiensis, G. limnicus, Pateramyces pingflumenensis, Terramyces aquatica, and T. flumenensis and also provide valuable insights into the intricacies of this order. This newfound knowledge not only enriches our understanding of Rhizophydiales but also contributes significantly to the broader field of mycology, addressing a critical gap in the documentation of fungal species. The identification and characterization of these eight novel species mark a noteworthy stride towards a more comprehensive comprehension of fungal ecosystems and their vital role.

Abstract Novel methods for sampling and characterizing biodiversity hold great promise for re-evaluating patterns of life across the planet. The sampling of airborne spores with a cyclone sampler, and the sequencing of their DNA, have been suggested as an efficient and well-calibrated tool for surveying fungal diversity across various environments. Here we present data originating from the Global Spore Sampling Project, comprising 2,768 samples collected during two years at 47 outdoor locations across the world. Each sample represents fungal DNA extracted from 24 m3 of air. We applied a conservative bioinformatics pipeline that filtered out sequences that did not show strong evidence of representing a fungal species. The pipeline yielded 27,954 species-level operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Each OTU is accompanied by a probabilistic taxonomic classification, validated through comparison with expert evaluations. To examine the potential of the data for ecological analyses, we partitioned the variation in species distributions into spatial and seasonal components, showing a strong effect of the annual mean temperature on community composition.

Peatswamp forest is a unique habitat that supports high biodiversity, particularly fungal diversity. The current study collected submerged and dead plant parts from Eleiodoxa conferta, Eugeissona tristis and Licuala paludosa from a peatswamp forest in Narathiwat Province, Thailand. Morphological features coupled with multigene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, rpb2 and tef1-α sequence data identified our isolates as new Distoseptispora species (viz. D. arecacearum sp. nov., D. eleiodoxae sp. nov. and D. narathiwatensis sp. nov.). Morphological descriptions, illustrations and notes are provided.

Medicinal plants serve as vital resources for preventing and treating diseases, with their flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, or entire plants being utilized in the pharmaceutical industry or as direct therapeutic agents. During our investigation of microfungi associated with medicinal plants in Guizhou and Sichuan Provinces, China, several asexual and sexual fungal morphs were collected. Multi-locus phylogenetic analysis based on combined ITS, LSU, SSU and TEF1-α datasets revealed that these taxa are related to the family Dictyosporiaceae. Morphological characteristics, along with multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, supported the establishment of Dictyocheirospora alangii sp. nov. and Pseudocoleophoma rosae sp. nov., as well as the introduction of a novel genus Neoxylochrysis, which accommodates Neoxylochrysis typhicola comb. nov. (≡Pseudocoleophoma typhicola). In addition, four new host records are introduced for Aquadictyospora lignicola from Periploca forrestii, Dendryphiella eucalyptorum from Leonurus japonicus, Ophiopogon japonicus and Sambucus javanica, D. vinosa from Phytolacca americana, and Dictyocheirospora rotunda from Euonymus japonicus and Prinsepia utilis. Detailed descriptions, micrographs of the new taxa and a phylogenetic tree are provided.

Pleosporales represents the largest order within the class Dothideomycetes (Fungi), comprising phytopathogenic, saprobic, and endophytic taxa with a widespread presence in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Rice (Oryza sativa) is a primary economic crop in numerous tropical countries, particularly in Thailand. Studying fungal species associated with rice holds the potential to enhance our understanding of fungal diversity, lifestyles, and biology of rice, offering valuable insights for future research aimed at disease management and yield improvement. Thirty-nine pleosporalean isolates were obtained from various parts of rice plants collected across diverse regions in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Species identification involved a combination of morphology and molecular phylogeny, utilizing multi-locus sequence analyses of the ITS, LSU, SSU, gapdh, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 genes. The isolates were identified in 18 taxa distributed across five families and ten genera, including five new species (Bipolaris chiangraiensis, Ophiosphaerella oryzae, Paraphaeosphaeria oryzae, Pyrenochaetopsis oryzicola, and Setophoma oryzicola). Additionally, six new host records and two new geographical records are documented. Photoplates, detailed morphological descriptions, and phylogenetic trees are provided to elucidate the placement of both known and novel taxa.

The Family Torulaceae belongs to the Order Pleosporales (Class Dothideomycetes) and mainly comprises saprobes. The taxa are widely distributed in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. In this study, we collected three dead leaf specimens of Carex baccans and two submerged wood specimens in Yunnan Province, China. A biphasic approach of morphological examination and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses conducted for internal transcribed spacer region ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS), nuclear large subunit rDNA (28S), nuclear small subunit rDNA (18S), translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) gene, and RNA polymerase II second-largest subunit (rpb2) revealed one new species Rutola kunmingensis and a new collection of Torula sundara. Rutola kunmingensis is characterized by black, powdery colonies, micronematous, creeping, reticular conidiophores bearing inconspicuous, monoblastic conidiogenous loci, and multi-septate, catenulate, verruculose, brown conidia. The conidiophores and conidia of each genus in Torulaceae are mapped onto the phylogenetic tree and the generic demarcations of this family are discussed and the significant divergence of ITS, 18S, 28S, rpb2, and tef1 sequences in Torulaceae is also discussed.

In the course of our ongoing research targeting the identification of potential biocontrol agents from entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), we explored a solid-state rice fungal extract of Blackwellomyces roseostromatus BCC56290 derived from infected lepidopteran larvae. Chemical and biological prospections afforded four unprecedentedly reported natural products differentiated into a dimeric naphthopyran bioxanthracene ES-242 derivative (1) and three cyclodepsipeptides (2–4) in addition to two known cyclodepsipeptides, cardinalisamides B (5) and C (6). Chemical structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated through comprehensive 1D/2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS data together with comparisons to the reported literature. The absolute configuration of the isolated cyclodepsipeptides was determined using Marfey’s method. All isolated compounds were assessed for their antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and nematicidal activities with some compounds revealing significant activities.

Species within Tetraplosphaeriaceae have been frequently documented in recent years with the extensive investigations of microfungi along a latitudinal gradient from north to south in the Asian/Australian region. Both bamboo substrates and freshwater habitats serve as extensive reservoirs, hosting a rich diversity of fungi that exhibit broad geographical distributions. The most common fungi in these two environments are generally distributed in distinct families. However, our statistics have revealed an intriguingly distinct preference of Tetraplosphaeriaceae species for inhabiting both bamboo substrates and freshwater habitats. The genera Pseudotetraploa (100%) and Triplosphaeria (100%) exhibit a strong preference, followed by Shrungabeeja (71%) and Quadricrura (67%). Our taxonomic and phylogenetic study of microfungi in southern China have identified four additional novel species, viz., Aquatisphaeria bambusae sp. nov., Pseudotetraploa phyllostachydis sp. nov., Pseudotetraploa yangjiangensis sp. nov., and Tetraploa submersa sp. nov. from bamboo substrates and freshwater habitats. In addition, Aquatisphaeria thailandica has previously been documented from freshwater habitats in Thailand; however, we have once again isolated this species from decaying bamboo substrates in Guangdong, China. The new findings substantiate our hypothesis that the preference of Tetraplosphaeriaceae species for colonizing bamboo substrates and freshwater habitats will be more evident through more extensive investigations conducted in such environments.

During a survey of fungi on Wurfbainia villosa in Guangdong Province, China, three novel species, Periconia endophytica, P. yangjiangensis, and P. wurfbainiae, belonging to Periconiaceae in Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes are proposed based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. Periconia endophytica was isolated from the healthy leaves of W. villosa, while P. yangjiangensis and P. wurfbainiae were obtained from the dead stems of the same host. Notably, holomorphs were observed in P. wurfbainiae. The morphological characteristics of the novel taxa are compared with closely related species within Periconia. Illustrations, morphological descriptions, and phylogenetic analyses are provided for the novel taxa. Multilocus phylogeny of the combined internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit nuclear rDNA (LSU), small subunit nuclear ribosomal rDNA (SSU), and partial translation elongation factor 1–α (tef1-α) regions supported the establishment of three new species. Furthermore, the taxa clustering in Periconia, Flavomyces fulophazii, and Sporidesmium tengii, are discussed for further investigation of their taxonomic placements.

Colletotrichum, a genus within the phylum Ascomycota (Fungi) and family Glomerellaceae are important plant pathogens globally. In this paper, we detail four Colletotrichum species found in mangrove ecosystems. Two new species, Colletotrichum rhizophorae and C. thailandica, and a new host record for Colletotrichum fructicola were identified in Thailand. Colletotrichum tropicale was collected from Taiwan’s mangroves and is a new record for Rhizophora mucronata. These identifications were established through a combination of molecular analysis and morphological characteristics. This expanded dataset for Colletotrichum enhances our understanding of the genetic diversity within this genus and its associations with mangrove ecosystems. The findings outlined herein provide data on our exploration of mangrove pathogens in Asia.

Herbal teas, including Camellia sinensis (black and green teas), are popular beverages with health benefits for consumers worldwide. These products are prepared from natural materials of different plant parts containing antioxidant properties and vitamins. The aim of this study was to investigate fungal contaminants and their ability to produce ochratoxin A (OTA) in herbal tea samples. Seven herbal teas were obtained from local markets in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand. Samples were incubated on potato dextrose agar (PDA), and the growing mycelia were isolated into a pure culture. The cultures were identified via both morphology and molecular analysis to confirm species identification. The identified species were subjected to OTA analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a fluorescence detector. Ochratoxin A was produced by Aspergillus chevalieri and A. niger, isolated from seven herbal tea samples (black tea, green tea, bael fruit, goji berry, jasmine, lavender, and rose). This finding raises concerns about the safety of herbal tea and should be investigated further for potential health implications.

Appressoria are specialized structures formed by certain phytopathogenic fungi during the early stages of the infection process. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in understanding the formation, types, and functions of appressoria. Besides being formed primarily by fungal pathogens, many studies have reported their occurrence in other life modes such as endophytes, epiphytes, and saprobes. In this study, we observed the formation of appressoria in fungal genera that have been found associated with leaf spots and, interestingly, by a saprobic species. We used morphological descriptions and illustrations, molecular phylogeny, coalescent-based Poisson tree processes (PTP) model, inter- and intra-species genetic distances based on their respective DNA markers, and Genealogical Concordance Phylogenetic Species Recognition Analysis (GCPSR) to establish a new species (Pseudoplagiostoma jasmini), a Ciliochorella sp., and a new host record (Coniella malaysiana). The Ciliochorella sp. is reported as a saprobe, while Pseudoplagiostoma jasmini and Coniella malaysiana were found to be associated with leaf spots of Jasminum species. All three taxa produce appressoria, and this is the first study that reports the formation of appressoria by a Ciliochorella sp. and a Pseudoplagiostoma sp.

Exophiala spinifera is a black ascomycetous yeast and is responsible for phaeohyphomycosis. We provide the first case report of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis in a female patient with progressive impairment of visual capacity. The infection was caused by a cutaneous infection of her hands. The patient responded well with PD catheter removal and 2-week antifungal medication. This case emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene and regular eye evaluation in preventing environment-bound infection in patients on PD. 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Three fungal specimens (two sexual and one asexual) were collected during fieldwork conducted in China, Taiwan and Thailand. Both sexual morphs share superficial, black ascomata surrounded by flexuous setae; 8-spored, unitunicate, cylindrical asci, with J+, apical ring, and ellipsoidal to allantoid, aseptate, guttulate ascospores. The asexual morph has ceratosporium-like conidia arising from aerial hyphae with a single arm and are usually attached or with 2–3 arms, brown, often with a subglobose to conical cell at the point of attachment. Morphological examinations and phylogenetic analyses of a combined LSU-ITS dataset via maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses indicated that these three collections were new species. Iodosphaeria chiayiensis (sexual morph), I. thailandica (sexual morph) and I. jinghongensis (asexual morph) are therefore introduced as new species in this study. Iodosphaeria chiayiensis has small, hyaline and ellipsoidal to allantoid ascospores, while I. thailandica has large ascomata, cylindrical to allantoid asci and hyaline to pale brown ascospores.

Mucor species are common fast-growing fungi found in soil. Two new species of Mucor and one new geographical record of M. nederlandicus were collected from northern Thailand and are described in this study. Evidence from morphophysiological data and phylogenetic analysis supports the introduction of the new taxa. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit of the nuclear ribosomal RNA (LSU) data showed that the new isolates cluster distinctly from other Mucor species with high or maximum bootstrap support. Mucor aseptatophorus is characterized by aseptate sporangiophores, globose columella, resistant and deliquescent sporangia, has sympodial, and monopodial branches and shows growth at 37 °C. It also differs from M. irregularis in having smaller sporangiospores, and larger sporangia. Mucor chiangraiensis has subglobose or slightly elongated globose columella, produces hyaline sporangiospores, and resistant and deliquescent sporangia. Furthermore, this species has wider sporangiophore, smaller sporangia and lower growth than M. nederlandicus. A detailed description of the species and illustrations are provided for the novel species.

During investigations into freshwater fungi from the Great Mekong Subregion, four Distoseptispora taxa were collected from China and Thailand. Based on morphological characteristics, and phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, SSU, TEF1-α, and RPB2 sequence data, two new species Distoseptispora bangkokensis and D. lancangjiangensis are introduced, and two known species D. clematidis and D. thysanolaenae were first reported in freshwater habitat. Illustrations and descriptions of these taxa are provided, along with comparisons with extant taxa in the genus.

Ganoderma (Ganodermataceae) has a worldwide distribution and has been widely used in traditional medicines. In this study, we report wild strains of Ganoderma that include two G. sichuanense and one G. orbiforme from northern Thailand. Optimal conditions for mycelium growth were ensured. The most favourable medium was potato sucrose agar for G. sichuanense and oatmeal agar for G. orbiforme and at 25 °C and 30 °C and pH 4–8. All types of cereal grains can be used to promote the growth of the mycelia of Ganoderma species. Fruiting tests were performed. All strains of Ganoderma produce fruiting bodies successfully in bag culture at 28 ± 1 °C with 75–85% relative humidity. Only G. orbiforme produced fruiting bodies in field cultivation at the laboratory scale. In the first flush yields, the G. sichuanense strain MFLUCC 22-0064 gave better production (the B.E was 152.35 ± 6.98 g). This study is the first to document the bag and field cultivation of wild Thai G. orbiforme. Ganoderma species are revealed to contain high amounts of fiber (47.90–52.45% d.b.), protein (12.80–14.67% d.b.), fat (4.90–5.70% d.b.), and carbohydrates (3.16–4.02% d.b.). Additionally, G. sichuanense and G. orbiforme were preliminarily screened for biological activity for inhibition of alpha–glucosidase enzyme activity. The IC50 values of G. orbiforme (MFLUCC 22-0066) was 105.97 ± 1.36 µg/mL and G. sichuanense (MFLUCC 22-0064) was 126.94 ± 0.87 µg/mL. Both strains had better inhibition than acarbose (168.18 ± 0.89 µM). These results on wild strains of Ganoderma will be useful for further studies on the applications of Ganoderma. Later the species can be introduced to domestic markets for cultivation and medicinal use.

During the investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi in plateau lakes in Yunnan Province, China, eight Lentitheciaceae species were collected from five lakes viz. Luguhu, Qiluhu, Xingyunhu, Cibihu, and Xihu lake. Based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, SSU, and tef 1-α sequence data, a new genus Paralentithecium, two new species (Paralentithecium suae, and Setoseptoria suae), three new records (Halobyssothecium phragmitis, H. unicellulare, and Lentithecium yunnanensis) and three known species viz. Halobyssothecium aquifusiforme, Lentithecium pseudoclioninum, and Setoseptoria bambusae are reported.

This is the first human infection caused by Hyphopichia burtonii, resulting in peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis initially diagnosed as sterile peritonitis, resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. This pathogen posed a challenging diagnosis, causing low-grade peritonitis and difficulty to culture with standard bacterial broth. Moreover, automated platforms for pathogenic yeast identification could not specify the species, but broad-range PCR targeting rDNA followed by DNA sequencing successfully solved the etiology.

Abstract Collections of microfungi on bamboo and grasses in Thailand revealed an interesting species morphologically resembling Lophiostoma, but which can be distinguished from the latter based on multi-locus phylogeny. In this paper, a new genus, Sublophiostoma is introduced to accommodate the taxon, S. thailandica sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses using combined ITS, LSU, RPB2, SSU, and TEF sequences demonstrate that six strains of the new species form a distinct clade within Pleosporales, but cannot be assigned to any existing family. Therefore, a new family Sublophiostomataceae (Pleosporales) is introduced to accommodate the new genus. The sexual morph of Sublophiostomataceae is characterized by subglobose to hemisphaerical, ostiolate ascomata, with crest-like openings, a peridium with cells of textura angularis to textura epidermoidea, cylindric-clavate asci with a bulbous or foot-like narrow pedicel and a well-developed ocular chamber, and hyaline, fusiform, 1-septate ascospores surrounded by a large mucilaginous sheath. The asexual morph (coelomycetous) of the species are observed on culture media.

Abstract It is now a decade since The International Commission on the Taxonomy of Fungi (ICTF) produced an overview of requirements and best practices for describing a new fungal species. In the meantime the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICNafp) has changed from its former name (the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature) and introduced new formal requirements for valid publication of species scientific names, including the separation of provisions specific to Fungi and organisms treated as fungi in a new Chapter F. Equally transformative have been changes in the data collection, data dissemination, and analytical tools available to mycologists. This paper provides an updated and expanded discussion of current publication requirements along with best practices for the description of new fungal species and publication of new names and for improving accessibility of their associated metadata that have developed over the last 10 years. Additionally, we provide: (1) model papers for different fungal groups and circumstances; (2) a checklist to simplify meeting (i) the requirements of the ICNafp to ensure the effective, valid and legitimate publication of names of new taxa, and (ii) minimally accepted standards for description; and, (3) templates for preparing standardized species descriptions.

Abstract The Esca disease complex includes some of the most important trunk diseases of grapevines (Vitis spp.) and causes serious yield losses in grape production worldwide. However, there has been no detailed study on its presence and associated pathogens in China. During 2017–2019, a preliminary field survey was conducted in eight vineyards in Hebei and Ningxia provinces, China when unusual foliar symptoms were observed. Symptoms were distinct tiger striped leaves, which are typical of grapevine leaf stripe disease (GLSD), one of the most common diseases in the Esca complex. Tiger-stripe leaf symptoms were found in four vineyards, and incidence was cultivar dependent varying with vineyard and year. A total of 266 fungal isolates were obtained from wood tissues of grapevines with typical foliar symptoms of GLSD. Based on morphological characters and multigene-combined phylogenetic analyses, the Ascomycete Phaeoacremonium minimum, one of the pathogens associated with Esca complex was identified. The basidiomycete Fomitiporia punicata, which has never been reported infecting grapevine, was also identified and found to be associated with wood rot in grapevine. The remaining isolates included some known wood pathogens, such as Neofusicoccum species and Diaporthe species. Koch’s postulates were performed in the greenhouse, confirming that both F. punicata and P. minimum caused leaf interveinal chlorosis and necrosis that resembled the GLSD symptoms of the Esca complex observed in the field. The present study provides the first detailed report of the Esca complex in China. In addition, this is the first record of F. punicata associated with Esca complex of grapevine worldwide. The results of this study provide new insights into the knowledge of the Esca complex.

Collections of fungal samples from two dead leaf specimens from Italy were subjected to morphological examination and phylogenetic analyses. Two coelomycetous taxa belonging to two different genera in Xylariomycetidae, Sordariomycetes, namely Discosia and Sporocadus, were identified. The Discosia taxon is revealed as a new species and is herein introduced as Discosia ravennica sp. nov. while the Sporocadus taxon is identified as Sporocadus rosigena. Multi-locus phylogeny based on DNA sequence data of the large subunit (LSU) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal genes, β-tubulin (β-tub) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) showed that D. ravennica is related to D. neofraxinea but it forms an independent lineage that supports its new species status. The new taxon also differs from other Discosia species by its unilocular to bilocular, superficial and applanate conidiomata with basal stroma composed of cells of textura angularis, elongate-ampulliform conidiogenous cells and conidia smaller in size. Sporocadus rosigena is here reported as a new host record from Quercus ilex from Italy. Descriptions, illustrations and molecular data for both species are provided in this paper.

Intensive crop production, use of pesticides, and unsustainable farming practices are known to cause land degradation and soil contamination. Both have led to a decline in biodiversity and changes in the functional groups of soil microorganisms. Although physicochemical methods have been used to apply soil amendments to agricultural land, mushroom cultivation in agricultural land for soil improvement have been poorly studied. In-field mushroom cultivation is considered a good strategy for improving soil quality by reducing the input of chemical fertilizers. In this paper, we list the edible mushroom species suitable for growing in fields and summarize the important role that mushroom field cultivation can play in soil erosion control, nutrient cycling, and the bioremediation of contaminants. Decomposition, symbiosis, assimilation, degradation, bioweathering, oxidation, biosorption, and bioconversion are all critical components of mushroom field cultivation. Research has shown that field mushroom cultivation contributes to nutritional bioavailability while also promoting the degradation of pollutants and formation of soil aggregates. Through soil amendment practices, a portion of agricultural waste can be converted into high-quality food and nutraceutical sources, and the remaining organic matter improves soil quality via fungal mycelial networks and the re-use of spent mushroom substrates. Only a small number of mushroom species have been used in the application of soil amendments in field conditions. This review shows the need for further research into specific mushroom species for achieving different soil amendment goals in order to balance agricultural development with sustainable land management.

Abstract It is common practice in scientific journals to print genus and species names in italics. This is not only historical as species names were traditionally derived from Greek or Latin. Importantly, it also facilitates the rapid recognition of genus and species names when skimming through manuscripts. However, names above the genus level are not always italicized, except in some journals which have adopted this practice for all scientific names. Since scientific names treated under the various Codes of nomenclature are without exception treated as Latin, there is no reason why names above genus level should be handled differently, particularly as higher taxon names are becoming increasingly relevant in systematic and evolutionary studies and their italicization would aid the unambiguous recognition of formal scientific names distinguishing them from colloquial names. Several leading mycological and botanical journals have already adopted italics for names of all taxa regardless of rank over recent decades, as is the practice in the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, and we hereby recommend that this practice be taken up broadly in scientific journals and textbooks.

Acervus (Pyronemataceae, Pezizales) is a saprobic genus in Pezizomycetes, characterized by colored apothecia, subcylindrical to cylindrical asci and guttulate ascospores. We collected four Acervus samples from China and Thailand. Descriptions and illustrations are introduced for all fresh samples. One new record of A. globulosus from Thailand, one new species, A. rufus, two known species, A. epispartius and A. stipitatus from China are reported. Phylogenetic analysis based on five genes, the large subunit rRNA (LSU), the translation elongation factor-1 alpha (tef1-α), the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2), the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb1), and the small subunit rRNA (SSU), revealed the distinct position of the new species. The new species is set apart by its red apothecia. A key to Acervus species is also given.

A survey of the diversity and distribution of microfungi on Dracaena leaf litter in Songkhla Province (Thailand) yielded two collections of pestalotiopsis-like fungi. Analyses of a combined ITS, TEF1-α and TUB2 sequence data matrix were applied to infer the phylogenetic position of these new isolates in Pestalotiopsis. The phylogenies indicated that these two isolates were monophyletic and constituted a distinct lineage that perceived a taxonomic novelty in Pestalotiopsis. This clade shared a close phylogenetic affinity with P. adusta, P. krabiensis, P. pandanicola and P. papuana. The comparison of morphological features with the phylogenetically closely related taxa are given and the new species is introduced as Pestalotiopsis dracaenicola sp. nov. with comprehensive descriptions and illustrations herein.

A novel ascomycetous genus, Elongaticollum, occurring on leaf litter of Hedychium coronarium (Zingiberaceae) in Taiwan, is described and illustrated. Elongaticollum is characterized by dark brown to black, superficial, obpyriform, pycnidial conidiomata with a distinct elongate neck, and oval to oblong, hyaline, aseptate conidia. Phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian) of combined ITS, LSU, SSU and tef1-α sequence data revealed Elongaticollum as a distinct genus within the family Phaeosphaeriaceae with high statistical support. In addition, Ophiosphaerella taiwanensis and Phaeosphaeriopsis beaucarneae are described as new species from dead leaves of Agave tequilana and Beaucarnea recurvata (Asparagaceae), respectively. Neosetophoma poaceicola is reported as a new host record from dead leaves of Musa acuminata (Musaceae). Newly described taxa are compared with other similar species and comprehensive descriptions and micrographs are provided.

Nigrospora is a monophyletic genus belonging to Apiosporaceae. Species in this genus are phytopathogenic, endophytic, and saprobic on different hosts. In this study, leaf specimens with disease symptoms were collected from host plants from the Shandong Peninsula, China. The fungal taxa associated with these leaf spots were studied using morphology and phylogeny based on ITS, TEF1, and TUB2 gene regions. In this article, we report on the genus Nigrospora with N. gorlenkoana, N. oryzae, N. osmanthi, N. rubi, and N. sphaerica identified with 13 novel host associations including crops with economic importance such as bamboo and Chinese rose.

Five Curvularia strains isolated from diseased leaves of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) in Guangxi Province, China, were examined. NCBI-Blast searches of ITS sequences suggested a high degree of similarity (99–100%) to Curvularia akaii, C. akaiiensis, C. bothriochloae, C. heteropogonis and C. sichuanensis. To accurately identify these strains, we further analysed their morphology and phylogenetic relationships based on combinations of ITS, GAPDH, and tef1 gene sequences. Morphological observations indicated that the key character differing from similar species was conidial size, whereas phylogenetic analyses indicated that the five strains represent one species that is also distinct from C. akaii, C. akaiiensis and C. bothriochloae by conidial size and conidiophore length. Thus, the strains examined are found to represent a new species described herein as Curvularia nanningensis. The pathogenicity test on the host and detached leaves confirmed the new species to be pathogenic on Cymbopogon citratus leaves. Standardised requirements for reliable identification of Curvularia pathogens are also proposed.

Ferns are one of the most significant plant groupings that comprise a substantial proportion of the plant flora due to the fact of their great diversity, especially in tropical areas. The biodiversity of fungi associated with ferns and fern-like hosts has also received little attention in studies. Plant samples were collected from diseased and dead plants of ten fern or fern-like species from Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. Forty-one isolates were selected from the obtained isolates for molecular and morphological analysis, with a focus on pathogenic fungal genera and consideration of the diversity in host and geographical location. Twenty-six species belonging to seven genera (Colletotrichum, Curvularia, Diaporthe, Fusarium, Lasiodiplodia, Neopestalotiopsis, and Pestalotiopsis) in six families were identified. Thirty new hosts, eight new geographical hosts, and one new species, Colletotrichum polypodialium, are described. Nepestalotiopsis phangngaensis, N. pandancola, Diaporthe tectonendophytica, D. chiangraiensis, and D. delonicis were isolated for the first time from leaf spots. Additionally, new reservoirs and geographical locations for species previously isolated from leaf spots or whose pathogenicity was established were found. However, more studies are necessary to prove the pathogenicity of the fungi isolated from the leaf spots and to identify the fungi associated with other species of ferns.

Four stains were isolated from two fresh twigs of Helwingia himalaica and two dead woods during investigations of micro-fungi in China and Thailand. Phylogenetic analyses of four gene regions LSU, ITS, SSU and tef1-α revealed the placement of these species in Montagnula. Based on the morphological examination and molecular data, two new species, M. aquatica and M. guiyangensis, and a known species M. donacina are described. Descriptions and illustrations of the new collections and a key to the Montagnula species are provided. Montagnula chromolaenicola, M. puerensis, M. saikhuensis, and M. thailandica are discussed and synonymized under M. donacina.

Mycorrhizal and N-fixing root symbioses evolved at two points in the past when global CO2 was highest, consistent with the high demand these symbioses place on host C. Trees hosting both mycorrhiza and N-fixing bacteria are able to fix more atmospheric CO2 and grow at faster rates than non-symbiotic plants, or plants with only mycorrhiza. We argue that on the basis of this improved C capture, N-fixing trees act as C-pumps, sequestering C and locking it in biomass, thus, if properly managed, can contribute significantly towards the mitigation of rising CO2 levels.

Sarcoscyphaceae (Pezizales) is distinguished by small to large, vividly-coloured sessile to stipitate apothecia, plurinucleate and pigmented paraphyses, operculate asci with thick walls, and plurinucleate, uniguttulate to multiguttulate ascospores with smooth walls or ornamentations. We collected more than 40 Sarcoscyphaceae specimens from dead twigs or wood. Based on morphology and phylogeny, these species belong to Cookeina, Nanoscypha, Phillipsia, Pithya, and Sarcoscypha. Among these, we introduce three new species–Nanoscypha aequispora, Pithya villosa, and Sarcoscypha longitudinalis. Phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, and tef-1α gene regions indicate the relationships of these species within Sarcoscyphaceae. Meanwhile, we propose Ph. gelatinosa as a synonym of Ph. domingensis. One new record of C. sinensis is reported from Thailand.

The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is known as a diverse geographic landscape and one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world with a high fungal diversity. Collections were carried out in terrestrial habitats to determine the diversity of woody litter fungi in the GMS, with an emphasis on northern Thailand and the Yunnan Province of China. Morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses of combined SSU, LSU, ITS, and tef1-α supported the placement of the new isolates in the family Didymosphaeriaceae. The phylogenetic affinities of our isolates are illustrated through maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses. Seven species of woody litter fungi were identified, comprising a new monotypic genus, Septofusispora; five novel species (Chromolaenicola sapindi, Dictyoarthrinium thailandicum, Karstenula lancangensis, Septofusispora thailandica, and Spegazzinia jinghaensis); and new host records of two species (Austropleospora archidendri, and Montagnula donacina). Furthermore, this study provides a synopsis of the Montagnula aff. donacina species based on their morphological characteristics, which can be useful in the species-level identifications in this genus.

Grasslands are major primary producers and function as major components of important watersheds. Although a concise definition of grasslands cannot be given using a physiognomic or structural approach, grasslands can be described as vegetation communities experiencing periodical droughts and with canopies dominated by grasses and grass-like plants. Grasslands have a cosmopolitan distribution except for the Antarctic region. Fungal interactions with grasses can be pathogenic or symbiotic. Herbivorous mammals, insects, other grassland animals, and fungal pathogens are known to play important roles in maintaining the biomass and biodiversity of grasslands. Although most pathogenicity studies on the members of Poaceae have been focused on economically important crops, the plant-fungal pathogenic interactions involved can extend to the full range of ecological circumstances that exist in nature. Hence, it is important to delineate the fungal pathogen communities and their interactions in man-made monoculture systems and highly diverse natural ecosystems. A better understanding of the key fungal players can be achieved by combining modern techniques such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) together with studies involving classic phytopathology, taxonomy, and phylogeny. It is of utmost importance to develop experimental designs that account for the ecological complexity of the relationships between grasses and fungi, both above and below ground. In grasslands, loss in species diversity increases interactions such as herbivory, mutualism, predation or infectious disease transmission. Host species density and the presence of heterospecific host species, also affect the disease dynamics in grasslands. Many studies have shown that lower species diversity increases the severity as well as the transmission rate of fungal diseases. Moreover, communities that were once highly diverse but have experienced decreased species richness and dominancy have also shown higher pathogenicity load due to the relaxed competition, although this effect is lower in natural communities. This review addresses the taxonomy, phylogeny, and ecology of grassland fungal pathogens and their interactions in grassland ecosystems.