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Molecular studies have contributed to the taxonomy of carrageenan-producing Kappaphycus spp. and Eucheuma denticulatum. However, unresolved species complexes and the lack of standardization in the use of genetic markers impede the identification of specimens and the delineation of a robust taxonomic framework. Here, nine molecular markers (cox1, cox2–3 spacer, cox2, cox3, COB, ITS, psbA, UPA and rbcL) were used to generate a multilocus phylogeny for 113 fresh eucheumatoid samples and four herbarium specimens. Analyses of species delineation and genetic distances confirmed the monophyly of currently accepted taxa. These analyses suggest that clades previously reported as K. striatus KS1 and KS2 are conspecific, and that E. denticulatum EDA 'spinosum' and EDB 'endong/cacing' are also conspecific. The results also unveiled possible new taxa from Hawaii and Indonesia. Each molecular marker and combinations thereof were assessed with regard to species identification, ease of amplification and sequencing, and haplotype characterization. All genetic markers recorded at least 94% success in the amplification and sequencing of fresh specimens, with cox1 being the most phylogenetically informative. Automatic partitioning, phylogenetic and tree-based assessments showed cox1, cox2–3 spacer, cox2 and rbcL were able to correctly identify species while cox1+ rbcL, COB+rbcL, cox2+ rbcL or cox1+ COB+rbcL trees best represented the phylogeny with consistently high nodal support. Among individual markers, cox1 identified the greatest number of haplotypes, while UPA, partial rbcL (750 bp), ITS, cox3 and cox2–3 spacer were able to retrieve information from herbarium specimens of 12–16 years of age. These molecular results provide a basis for a database essential for the taxonomic framework, cultivar development and germplasm conservation of eucheumatoids. Highlights: Mitochondria cox1, cox2–3 spacer, cox2 and plastid rbcL can be used for species identification and cox1 for haplotype detection of eucheumatoids. cox1+rbcL, COB+rbcL, cox2+rbcL or cox1+COB+rbcL are the most cost-effective molecular markers for phylogenetic inference. The most comprehensive up to date multilocus phylogeny of Kappaphycus spp. and Eucheuma denticulatum is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Shadegan International Wetland" (SIW) is one of the wetlands internationally recognized in the Ramsar convention. The vegetation of this wetland ecosystem consists of mostly grasses and shrubs that host a large number of fungi including endophytes. In this study, Nigrospora isolates were obtained from healthy plants of this wetland and its surrounding salt marshes and identified based on morphological features and multilocus phylogenetic analyses based on three DNA loci, namely the internal transcribed spacer regions 1 and 2 including the intervening 5.8S nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS), β-tubulin (tub2), and elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α). Accordingly, the following Nigrospora species were identified: N. lacticolonia, N. oryzae, N. osmanthi, N. pernambucoensis and a novel taxon N. shadeganensis sp. nov., which is described and illustrated. To the best of our knowledge, 10 new hosts for Nigrospora species are here reported, namely Aeluropus lagopoides, Allenrolfea occidentalis, Anthoxanthum monticola, Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, Cressa cretica, Halocnemum strobilaceum, Seidlitzia rosmarinus, Suaeda vermiculata, Tamarix passerinoides, and Typha latifolia. Moreover, the species N. lacticolonia and N. pernambucoensis are new records for the mycobiota of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is the most important fibre crop worldwide. Black root rot and Fusarium wilt are two major diseases of cotton caused by soil-borne Berkeleyomyces rouxiae and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (Fov), respectively. Phenotyping plant symptoms caused by soil-borne pathogens has always been a challenge. To increase the uniformity of infection, we adapted a seedling screening method that directly uses liquid cultures to inoculate the plant roots and the soil. Four isolates, each of B. rouxiae and Fov, were collected from cotton fields in Australia and were characterised for virulence on cotton under controlled plant growth conditions. While the identities of all four B. rouxiae isolates were confirmed by multilocus sequencing, only two of them were found to be pathogenic on cotton, suggesting variability in the ability of isolates of this species to cause disease. The four Fov isolates were phylogenetically clustered together with the other Australian Fov isolates and displayed both external and internal symptoms characteristic of Fusarium wilt on cotton plants. Furthermore, the isolates appeared to induce varied levels of plant disease severity indicating differences in their virulence on cotton. To contrast the virulence of the Fov isolates, four putatively non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum (Fo) isolates collected from cotton seedlings exhibiting atypical wilt symptoms were assessed for their ability to colonise cotton host. Despite the absence of Secreted in Xylem genes (SIX6, SIX11, SIX13 and SIX14) characteristic of Fov, all four Fo isolates retained the ability to colonise cotton and induce wilt symptoms. This suggests that slightly virulent strains of Fo may contribute to the overall occurrence of Fusarium wilt in cotton fields. Findings from this study will allow better distinction to be made between plant pathogens and endophytes and allow fungal effectors underpinning pathogenicity to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum species is a serious disease of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), but the species of Colletotrichum that are associated with the disease in Japan have not been adequately surveyed. In this study, 46 isolates were isolated from diseased leaves and fruits of loquat in Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures in 2017 and 2018. On the basis of morphological features and molecular approaches, seven Colletotrichum species were identified: C. fioriniae, C. nymphaeae, C. karsti, C. aenigma, C. fructicola, C. gloeosporioides s. s., and C. siamense. The most prevalent species was C. karsti (43.5% of total species), followed by C. fioriniae (21.7%) and C. gloeosporioides s. s. (13.0%). All identified species were confirmed to cause loquat anthracnose by fulfilling Koch's postulates. The loquat isolates of C. fioriniae, C. fructicola, and C. siamense also caused symptoms on all tested plants of kiwifruit, satsuma mandarin, persimmon, and peach. This report is the first on C. karsti and C. aenigma associated with loquat anthracnose and the first record of C. fructicola in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago lanceolata has been increasingly cultivated in recent years as a forage crop due to its high feeding quality, good adaptability and medicinal benefits. Between 2015 and 2023, Alternaria leaf spot (ALS), appearing as reddish‐brown necrotic spots with a greyish white to pale brown centre, was commonly observed in two forage germplasm nurseries of P. lanceolata of Sichuan Province, China. Initially, 139 Alternaria strains were isolated from leaf lesions, and then identified using the identity of rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences in the NCBI database and the similarity of morphological characteristics. By pure culture technique, six representative isolates were finally obtained for the present study. Based on both multilocus phylogeny (SSU, LSU, ITS, gapdh, rpb2, tef1, endoPG, OPA10‐2, alt a 1, KOG1058 and KOG1077) and morphology, four Alternaria species were identified: three new records of A. alternata, A. arborescens species complex and A. gossypina on this host in China, belonging to section Alternaria, and a new species of section Porri, namely, A. lanceolatae sp. nov. Pathogenicity tests by inoculation on both detached leaves and whole plants revealed that A. lanceolatae was the most important causal agent of ALS, while the other three species were nonpathogenic to P. lanceolata. This study characterized a novel pathogenic Alternaria species of section Porri from P. lanceolata in China and could contribute as useful research for possible ALS management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crepidotus is a genus of common saprotrophic fungi well known especially in the Northern Hemisphere, but distribution patterns of individual species are not sufficiently understood. We redefined a taxonomic circumscription of Crepidotus cinnamomeus based on morphological and molecular congruencies between the type material and recent collections. The species is well delimited from other similar and currently accepted species of the genus. Crepidotus cinnamomeus was found to have a broad holarctic distribution with occurrences in North America, Europe and Asia where it grows on twigs and branches of deciduous trees and shrubs in preferably cold humid habitats. Here we present the first multilocus phylogeny of the genus, including portions of the RPB2 gene. Our study highlights the importance of sufficient sampling from broader areas supported by sequence data, which is essential for estimation of species delimitation, distribution and correct name assignment for Crepidotus species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root rot is a destructive soil-borne disease of Coptis chinensis, which depends on chemical control at present, and more attention should be paid to biocontrol of disease. In the present research, isolate Y9 isolated from healthy root samples of Coptis, was identified as Bacillus cereus. Further screening and pot experiments showed that B. cereus isolate Y9 inhibited the growth of the main causal agents of coptis root rot disease (Fusarium solani and F. avenaceum) and seven other phytopathogenic fungi. The application of B. cereus isolate Y9 and compatible Trichoderma harzianum, T. atroviride and B. amyloliquefaciens, singly and in combination were found to be effective against Fusarium root rot in vitro and in field experiments. In field experiments, combinations of T. harzianum + B. amyloliquefaciens + Y9 (HYJ, in ratio of 1:1:1) showed the highest control efficacy of 63.85%, which was higher than the expected value (53.18%), indicating synergistic effect on the control of coptis root rot. Therefore, B. cereus isolate Y9 may be a potential biological control agent, and combined use with T. harzianum and B. amyloquefaciens offered even greater potential. The long-term effects of isolate B. cereus Y9 and its combinations on C. chinensis should be assessed in different locations and seasons in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective species conservation necessitates the ability to accurately differentiate among species, a challenge compounded by taxonomic uncertainties in freshwater mussels due to substantial intraspecific variation and pronounced phenotypic plasticity in shell morphology. The taxonomic status and species validity of Scabies longata and S. chinensis, two species endemic in China, have been under continuous debate since establishment. The lack of essential molecular data required for a comprehensive systematic study has resulted in the unresolved taxonomic status of these two species. This study presents molecular data, including COI barcoding, COI + 28S rRNA, and mitogenomic data combined with morphological characteristics to assess the validity of S. longata and S. chinensis. Both morphological and COI barcoding data support the conclusion that S. longata and S. chinensis are junior synonyms of Nodularia douglasiae and N. nuxpersicae respectively. Our findings suggest the absence of Scabies species in China. Mitochondrial phylogenetic analyses were used to further elucidate intrageneric relationships within the genus Nodularia, revealing the following relationships: (N. breviconcha (Nodularia sp. 1 (N. douglasiae (N. nuxpersicae, N. nipponensis)))). We underscore the significance of employing an integrated taxonomic approach for species identification, especially given the considerable morphological disparities between larvae and adult freshwater mussels. Proper morphological identification of adult specimens is essential for extracting meaningful taxonomic characters. Furthermore, our findings suggest a notable resemblance between the freshwater bivalve fauna in southern China and those east of the Mekong River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose, caused by several Colletotrichum species, is a major restricting factor for guava production, but no comprehensive study of the causal agent has been conducted from the plant host centre of diversity. This work characterizes isolates from guava, mainly from the fruit, but also leaves and flowers, representing most Brazilian physiographies according to the partial sequences of the rDNA‐ITS, ApMAT, TUB2, HIS3 and GAPDH gene regions. In addition, the pathogenicity and aggressiveness to fruits of two widely planted guava varieties (SLG and RM) are described. Guava‐derived Colletotrichum isolates were found in five complexes: gloeosporioides, acutatum, boninense, gigasporum and orchidearum. The gloeosporioides complex was the most prevalent (81%), followed by the acutatum complex (14%). A total of 16 Colletotrichum species were naturally associated with guava anthracnose: C. aeschynomenes, C. asianum, C. chrysophilum, C. fructicola, C. gigasporum, C. gloeosporioides, C. karsti, C. melonis, C. musae, C. nymphaeae, C. paranaense, C. siamense, C. sojae, C. syzygicola, C. theobromicola and C. tropicale. Apart from C. nymphaeae and C. gloeosporioides, all the remaining 14 taxa are reported for the first time in P. guajava. The most aggressive species belonged to the C. gloeosporioides complex. C. siamense was the most prevalent, especially in warmer regions, followed by C. chrysophilum, mostly in temperate environments. The most aggressive species were C. siamense, C. chrysophilum, C. fructicola and C. tropicale. Fruits of the variety SLG were consistently more resistant to anthracnose than the fruits of RM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. bambusicola sp. nov.) and two new species, Arecophila xishuangbannaensis 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

México is among the main producers of onions, which are cultivated mainly in the states of Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Michoacán, and Zacatecas. During June and November 2017, foliar blight symptoms were observed in commercial onion crops in the municipality of Copándaro, Michoacán. The incidence of the disease was 20% in June and 80% in November. The objective of this work was to identify the causal agent or agents of this disease. Fungal isolates recovered from symptomatic plants presented conidia typical of Alternaria and Stemphylium. Molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis using partial sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the translation elongation factor-1 alpha (TEF1), and RNA polymerase subunit II (RPB2) genes confirmed the identity of the isolates as species within the Alternaria alternata species complex, and Stemphylium vesicarium. The isolates reproduced foliar blight symptoms in inoculated onion plants in pathogenicity tests. This is the first report of Alternaria alternata sensu lato and Stemphylium vesicarium causing foliar blight in commercial onion crops in Michoacán. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kirschsteiniothelia (Kirschsteiniotheliales, Pleosporomycetidae) includes 39 saprobic species recorded from dead or decaying wood in terrestrial and freshwater habitats. This study focuses on exploring Kirschsteiniothelia diversity in woody litter in Thailand. Wood samples were collected from forest areas in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai Provinces in Thailand and examined for fungal fructifications. Fungal isolates were obtained and their morphological and sequence data were characterised. Micromorphology associated with multilocus phylogeny of ITS, LSU and SSU sequence data identified three isolates as novel species (Kirschsteiniothelia inthanonensis, K. saprophytica and K. zizyphifolii) besides new host records for K. tectonae and K. xishuangbannaensis. The placement of the new taxa and records are supported by morphological illustrations, descriptions and molecular phylogenies and the implications of these findings are discussed. Our findings provide information for understanding Kirschsteiniothelia diversity and ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant deep-sea oyster Neopycnodonte zibrowii Gofas, C. Salas & Taviani, 2009 is a keystone deep-sea habitat builder species. Discovered about fifteen years ago in the Azores, it has been described and assigned to the genus Neopycnodonte Fischer von Waldheim, 1835 based on morphological features. In this study, we generated DNA sequence data for both mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (ITS2 and 28S) markers based on the holotype specimen of N. zibrowii to establish a molecular phylogenetic framework for the systematic assessment of this species and to provide a reliable (i.e., holotype-based) reference sequence set for multilocus DNA barcoding approaches. Molecular data provide compelling evidence that the giant deep-sea oyster is a distinct species, rather than a deep-water ecophenotype of Neopycnodonte cochlear (Poli, 1795), with extremely high genetic divergence from any other gryphaeid. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses place the giant deep-sea oyster within the clade "Neopycnodonte/Pycnodonte" with closer affinity to N. cochlear rather than to P. taniguchii Hayami & Kase, 1992, thus supporting its assignment to the genus Neopycnodonte. Relationships within this clade are not well supported because mitochondrial variation is inflated by saturation that eroded phylogenetic signal, implying an old split between taxa within this clade. Finally, the set of reference barcode sequences of N. zibrowii generated in this study will be useful for a wide plethora of barcoding applications in deep-sea biodiversity surveys. Molecular validation of recent records of deep-sea oysters from the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea will be crucial to clarify the distribution of N. zibrowii and assess the phenotypic variation and ecology of this enigmatic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many members of the Oomycota genus Phytophthora cause economic and environmental impact diseases in nurseries, horticulture, forest, and natural ecosystems and many are of regulatory concern around the world. At present, there are 223 described species, including eight unculturable and three lost species. Twenty-eight species need to be redescribed or validated. A lectotype, epitype or neotype was selected for 20 species, and a redescription based on the morphological/molecular characters and phylogenetic placement is provided. In addition, the names of five species are validated: P. cajani, P. honggalleglyana (Synonym: P. hydropathica), P. megakarya, P. pisi and P. pseudopolonica for which morphology and phylogeny are given. Two species, P. ×multiformis and P. uniformis are presented as new combinations. Phytophthora palmivora is treated with a representative strain as both lecto- and epitypification are pending. This manuscript provides the updated multigene phylogeny and molecular toolbox with seven genes (ITS rDNA, ß-tub, COI, EF1a, HSP90, L10, and YPT1) generated from the type specimens of 212 validly published, and culturable species (including nine hybrid taxa). The genome information of 23 types published to date is also included. Several aspects of the taxonomic revision and phylogenetic re-evaluation of the genus including species concepts, concept and position of the phylogenetic clades recognized within Phytophthora are discussed. Some of the contents of this manuscript, including factsheets for the 212 species, are associated with the "IDphy: molecular and morphological identification of Phytophthora based on the types" online resource (https://idtools.org/tools/1056/index.cfm). The first version of the IDphy online resource released to the public in September 2019 contained 161 species. In conjunction with this publication, we are updating the IDphy online resource to version 2 to include the 51 species recently described. The current status of the 223 described species is provided along with information on type specimens with details of the host (substrate), location, year of collection and publications. Additional information is provided regarding the ex-type culture(s) for the 212 valid culturable species and the diagnostic molecular toolbox with seven genes that includes the two metabarcoding genes (ITS and COI) that are important for Sanger sequencing and also very valuable Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTU) for second and third generation metabarcoding High-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies. The IDphy online resource will continue to be updated annually to include new descriptions. This manuscript in conjunction with IDphy represents a monographic study and the most updated revision of the taxonomy and phylogeny of Phytophthora, widely considered one of the most important genera of plant pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The land snail Elona quimperiana is listed in annexes II and IV of the Europe Habitats Directive. In this study, phylogenetic relationships between populations of this protected species from its whole distribution range were reconstructed based on the sequencing of two mtDNA gene fragments (COI and 16S rRNA) and one nDNA gene fragment (ITS2). Haplotype networks were also generated for the COI and 16S rRNA gene fragments. Results yielded three main intraspecific phylogroups, here designated as the lineages Brittany-Spain, Basque, and Navarre-Rioja. This last lineage had not been identified previously. Genetic distances between the three main phylogroups suggest they could have originated by allopatric fragmentation before the Last Glacial Maximum, and then separately evolved in three refugia in the Iberian Peninsula. We here propose that each phylogroup is considered an Evolutionarily Significant Unit. Through extended sampling, we were able to delimit the geographic distribution of all three lineages. Our genetic results support post-glacial colonization of this species from the north-eastern Iberian Peninsula to Brittany in NW-France as proposed previously, and rule out its recent anthropic introduction.

In the present study, we reconstruct phylogenetic relationships within the chromosomally variable Sorex araneus species group based on 20 nuclear loci and the mitochondrial cyt b gene. In the species tree, Nearctic S. arcticus represents the earliest offshoot of the group followed by Holarctic S. tundrensis and Siberian S. daphaenodon. Five other species distributed mostly in Europe form a well‐supported clade. Coding regions showed stronger phylogenetic signal than introns. The results suggest a high incidence of reticulation in the evolution of the group. The authentic mitochondrial lineage of the Iberian shrew S. granarius was found to be close phylogenetically to S. coronatus, which confirms that some populations of the Iberian shrew S. granarius were introgressed from S. araneus. Footprints of deeper reticulations are revealed for the first time, indicating the potential hybrid origin of the S. arcticus and S. coronatus lineages. Ancient hybridisations are hypothesised to be the source of discordance between molecular‐ and karyotype‐based phylogenetic reconstructions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Myotis is one of the most diverse and widely distributed mammals, providing a good model for studies of speciation and diversification across large geographic scales. However, the classification within this genus has long been chaotic. Taxonomic revisions based on multiple data sources are essential and urgent. In this study, morphometrics and genetic markers with different modes of inheritance were used to clarify the taxonomy of Myotis distributed in China. Based on 173 mitochondrial Cytb sequences and five morphological characteristics, 114 specimens collected nationwide over the past 20 years were assigned to 11 Myotis species. All Chinese samples classified into M. davidii and M. longipes were revised to M. alticraniatus and M. laniger. Then, two nuclear fragments (Rag2 and Chd1) and Cytb sequences from representative individuals of Chinese Myotis were used for multilocus phylogeny reconstruction and genetic divergence evaluation. The phylogenetic relationships were clearly demonstrated in the species tree: M. alticraniatus and M. laniger; M. fimbriatus, M. pilosus, M. macrodactylus, and M. petax; and M. pequinius, M. chinensis, and M. blythii formed three strongly supported monophyletic clades. Mitochondrial divergence was almost 10 times that of nuclear divergence, with interspecific K2P distances ranging from 8% to 20% for Cytb and 0.3% to 2.3% for concatenated nuclear genes. Low levels of genetic divergence were observed between M. alticraniatus and M. laniger, as well as M. fimbriatus and M. pilosus. These results provide new insights into the taxonomy and phylogeny of Myotis bats in China and are important for the future research and conservation of Chinese Myotis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptosphaeriaceae is a widely distributed fungal family with diverse lifestyles. The family includes several genera that can be distinguished by morphology and molecular phylogenetic analysis. During our investigation of saprobic fungi on grasslands in Yunnan Province, China, four fungal taxa belonging to Leptosphaeriaceae associated with grasses were collected. Morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of the combined SSU, LSU, ITS, tub2, and rpb2 loci based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were used to reveal the taxonomic placement of these fungal taxa. This study introduces four new taxa, viz. Leptosphaeria yunnanensis, L. zhaotongensis, Paraleptosphaeria kunmingensis, and Plenodomus zhaotongensis. Colour photo plates, full descriptions, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of the new taxa are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coscinium fenestratum is a medicinally significant critically endangered plant found in Western Ghats of India. The leaf spot and blight was observed in Kerala during 2021 with disease incidence of 40% in 20 assessed plants in 0.6 hectare. The associated fungus was isolated on potato dextrose agar medium. A total of six morpho-culturally identical isolates were isolated and morphologically identified. Based on morpho-cultural features, the fungus was identified at genus level as Lasiodiplodia sp. which was further authentically confirmed as Lasiodiplodia theobromae by molecular identification with a representative isolate (KFRIMCC 089) using multigene (ITS, LSU, SSU, TEF1 -α , and TUB2) sequence analysis and concatenated phylogenetic analysis (ITS-TEF1 -α -TUB2). Pathogenicity tests were also assessed in vitro and in vivo using mycelial disc and spore suspension of L. theobromae , and the isolated fungus's pathogenic behaviour was confirmed after re-isolation and morpho-cultural features. Literature survey reveals that there are no reports of L. theobromae on C. fenestratum from all over the world. Hence, C. fenestratum is being firstly reported as a new host record for L. theobromae from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euonymus japonicus plays important roles in the process of urban landscape construction as an evergreen shrub. Anthracnose is an important limiting factor affecting the healthy growth of E. japonicus, seriously influencing improvement of urban landscape ecosystems. However, the Colletotrichum species associated with anthracnose on E. japonicus are unclear. In this study, diseased leaves of E. japonicus with typical anthracnose symptoms were collected in five nurseries in Beijing, China. Among 45 Colletotrichum isolates obtained, there were two distinct morphotypes, which were identified as C. aenigma or C. siamense by morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analysis. The growth rates of these two species were determined at different incubation temperatures, and the results showed that both species grew well at 10–35°C, particularly at 25 or 30°C, while C. aenigma isolates were adapted to high growth rates at a wider range of temperatures than C. siamense. Pathogenicity assays indicated that the two species showed varying degrees of pathogenicity on E. japonicus. Wounding was conducive to the pathogenicity of C. aenigma or C. siamense on E. japonicus either by inoculation with mycelial discs or conidial suspensions. This study presents the first report of C. aenigma causing anthracnose on E. japonicus worldwide and of C. siamense in north China causing anthracnose on E. japonicus. The morphological features of Colletotrichum spp. associated with anthracnose on E. japonicus were also compared in detail in this study. The findings provide a contribution to the prevention and control of anthracnose on E. japonicus by better understanding the species involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) is an economically valuable landscaping ornamental plant. Serious outbreaks have been reported, in its leaf tips curl upward, irregular black brown spots appear on leaves, and extensive defoliation is commonly observed. The incidence in Hangzhou was estimated at 50% and resulted in large economic losses for growers in 2018. Samples were collected from the main cultivation area in Zhejiang Province. In total, 11 fungal isolates were obtained from diseased leaves through a single-spore purification method, and isolate LVY 9 exhibited strong pathogenicity. Based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on multilocus sequence typing of the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, actin (ACT), calmodulin (CAL), and chitin synthase (CHS-1) genes, we identified the pathogen as Colletotrichum siamense, causative agent of anthracnose of winterberry holly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Pilosocereus (Cactaceae) is an important dry forest element in all subregions and transitional zones of the neotropics, with the highest diversity in eastern Brazil. The genus is subdivided into informal taxonomic groups; however, most of these are not supported by recent molecular phylogenetic inferences. This lack of confidence is probably due to the use of an insufficient number of loci and the complexity of cactus diversification. Here, we explored the species relationships in Pilosocereus in more detail, integrating multilocus phylogenetic approaches with the assessment of the ancestral range and the effect of geography on diversification shifts. Methods: We used 28 nuclear, plastid, and mitochondrial loci from 54 plant samples of 31 Pilosocereus species for phylogenetic analyses. We used concatenated and coalescent phylogenetic trees and Bayesian models to estimate the most likely ancestral range and diversification shifts. Results: All Pilosocereus species were clustered in the same branch, except P. bohlei. The phylogenetic relationships were more associated with the geographic distribution than taxonomic affinities among taxa. The genus began diversifying during the Plio‐Pleistocene transition in the Caatinga domain and experienced an increased diversification rate during the Calabrian age. Conclusions: We recovered a well‐supported multispecies coalescent phylogeny. Our results refine the pattern of rapid diversification of Pilosocereus species across neotropical drylands during the Pleistocene and highlight the need for taxonomic rearrangements in the genus. We recovered a pulse of diversification during the Pleistocene that was likely driven by multiple dispersal and vicariance events within and among the Caatinga, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. is one of the major problems in mango production worldwide, including Thailand. All mango cultivars are susceptible, but Nam Dok Mai See Thong (NDMST) is the most vulnerable. Through a single spore isolation method, a total of 37 isolates of Colletotrichum spp. were obtained from NDMST showing anthracnose symptoms. Identification was performed using a combination of morphology characteristics, Koch's postulates, and phylogenetic analysis. The pathogenicity assay and Koch's postulates on leaves and fruit confirmed that all Colletotrichum spp. tested were causal agents of mango anthracnose. Multilocus analysis using DNA sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, β-tubulin (TUB2), actin (ACT), and chitin synthase (CHS-1) was performed for molecular identification. Two concatenated phylogenetic trees were constructed using either two-loci of ITS and TUB2, or four-loci of ITS, TUB2, ACT, and CHS-1. Both phylogenetic trees were indistinguishable and showed that these 37 isolates belong to C. acutatum, C. asianum, C. gloeosporioides, and C. siamense. Our results indicated that using at least two loci of ITS and TUB2, were sufficient to infer Colletotrichum species complexes. Of 37 isolates, C. gloeosporioides was the most dominant species (19 isolates), followed by C. asianum (10 isolates), C. acutatum (5 isolates), and C. siamense (3 isolates). In Thailand, C. gloeosporioides and C. acutatum have been reported to cause anthracnose in mango, however, this is the first report of C. asianum and C. siamense associated with mango anthracnose in central Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese kale (Brassica alboglabra) is commonly grown and consumed throughout Asia and is often treated with chemicals to control pests and diseases. In Thailand, public standards, Good Agricultural Practice (GAP), and International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) programs were introduced for the cultivation of Chinese kale with minimum input of chemical treatments. Black spot caused by the fungus Sphaerobolus has been affecting the plants grown under IFOAM standards in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for several years. Strongly adhering glebal spore masses of the fungus on leaf and stem surfaces have adversely affected postharvest management, especially in the quality classification of the product. Both morphological and phylogenetic (combined ITS, mtSSU, and EF 1-α dataset) studies confirmed a novel species, S. cuprophilus. Pathogenicity tests involving inoculation of Chinese kale by non-wound and mulch inoculation bioassays resulted in the production of symptoms of black spot and the re-isolation of S. cuprophilus, indicating that the new fungal species is the causal agent of black spots. Inhibitory effects of antagonistic bacteria and chemical fungicides, both allowed for use in plant cultivation under either IFOAM or GAP standards, indicated that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strains (PBT2 and YMB7), chlorothalonil (20 and 500 ppm) and thiophanate-methyl (500 and 1500 ppm) were the most effective in controlling the growth of the causal fungus by 83 to 93%. However, copper oxychloride (5 to 20 ppm), a recommended chemical in control of downy mildew of Chinese kale, showed hormetic effects on S. cuprophilus by promoting the growth and sporulation of the fungus. The findings of this study provide vital information regarding the association of S. cuprophilus and Chinese kale and will support decisions to manage fungal diseases of this vegetable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species from the fungal genus Tolypocladium (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae) that infects Stratiomyidae larva from the genus Hylorops is described: Tolypocladium valdiviae Gallardo-Pillancari, Montalva & González. The description is based on both genomic data and morphological characteristics. The sexual stage of T. valdiviae presents fleshy and visible stromata; unlike Tolypocladium ophioglossoides , it is smaller and emerges directly from its host and resembles Tolypocladium longisegmentis and Tolypocladium capitatum, both of which are parasites of deer truffle fungi of the genus Elaphomyces (Ascomycota: Eurotiales). In the anamorphic state, T. valdiviae presents conidiogenous cells similar in shape and arrangement to those of Tolypocladium inflatum, however T. valdiviae produces larger conidiogenous cells and, occasionally, produces chlamydospores. Phylogenetic evidence suggested that T. valdiviae is in a clade close to T. longisegmentis , T. inflatum and T. ophioglossoides , species also recognized to be parasites of fungi of the genus Elaphomyces. The new species is known so far only from Valdivia, southern Chile. [Display omitted] • A new Tolypocladium species was isolated from Chiromyzine larvae in Chile. • Tolypocladium valdiviae is described as a new species. • The new species is only known from Teja island, Valdivia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lemon fruits are an important source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, carotenoids, polyphenols, coumarins and terpenes. These lemon compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which have beneficial effects on human health. This research aimed to elucidate the etiology of blue and green molds detected on lemon fruits in Serbia. Using integrative identification approach, the obtained isolates were characterized from morphological, physiological, molecular, phylogenetic and pathological aspects. Colony growth and morphology were examined on Czapek yeast autolysate agar (CYA), Malt extract agar (MEA) and Creatine sucrose agar (CREA), and on CYA at two additional incubation temperatures (5 and 37 °C). For molecular identification, ITS and partial β-tubulin (BenA) genes were sequenced. Phylogenetic relationships were investigated using maximum-likelihood method. A pathogenicity test was carried out and the possible difference in pathogenicity among isolates was assessed with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and subsequent Tukey’s test. Four species were identified: Penicillium expansum, Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium polonicum and Talaromyces rugulosus. All four species proved to be pathogenic on lemon fruits, producing symptoms similar to those observed on naturally infected fruits. The results of this study are the first records of the beforementioned Penicillium/ Talaromyces species as postharvest pathogens on lemon fruits in Serbia and the first world report of T. rugulosus as phytopathogenic on the same host.

Shell features are key factors for systematics and evolutionary biology studies of freshwater gastropods. Based mostly on shell morphology, 19 species of the springsnail genus Radomaniola (family Hydrobiidae) have been described. Although the scarce differentiation of various shell dimensions suggests morphological stasis, the evolutionary dynamics of shell and other anatomical structures have not yet been explored fully. By inferring a phylogeny and a time-calibrated species tree from mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (28S) sequences of 15 recognized species, we initially examine the species diversity of the Radomaniola dataset and then, through phylogenetic comparative methods, assess the evolutionary correlation, pace and mode of 40 continuous shell and anatomical characters. By synthesizing the results of four species delimitation methods and through morphological examinations, we recognize 21 groups, for which taxonomy is discussed here. Seven new species are described. We reveal a high degree of correlated evolution between characters of the shell, which are constrained by a single morphological optimum, consistent with the morphological stasis model. Anatomical traits diverged rapidly in an unconstrained manner or toward multiple optima. These findings indicate that in order to understand the morphological evolution of springsnails, it is essential to examine different organs in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new disease was observed on chamomile plants ( Matricaria recutita ) in various commercially cultivated fields in 2016 and 2017 in Germany. From symptomatic stems and leaves, the fungal species described here was isolated repeatedly. Koch's postulates using in planta experiments were fulfilled by inoculation of chamomile plants proving the fungus to be the causal agent of the disease. Morphological studies and phylogenetic analyses using internal transcribed spacer, large subunit, and translation elongation factor-1α sequences suggested that the fungus represents a new species within the genus Rhexocercosporidium (Helotiales). The data are presented together with a description of the growth parameters and comprehensive illustrations of the new species, Rhexocercosporidium matricariae . All species so far assigned to Rhexocercosporidium are compared and discussed. The combination Rhexocercosporidium microsporum is validated., Competing Interests: The author(s) declare no conflict of interest.

Mendogia belongs to Dothideomycetes and its members are epiphytic on living bamboo culms or palms and distributed in tropical regions. Currently the genus comprises seven species. A further species of Mendogia was collected from the leaves of Fagales in Thailand. Morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses using SSU, LSU and ITS sequences showed that the fungus is new to science, described herein as Mendogia diffusa. Mendogia diffusa is characterized by apothecial ascostromata, a carbonized epithecium, dark brown setae on the ascostromatal surface, hyaline paraphysoids, ovoid to clavate asci, and oblong to elliptical, muriform ascospores. The fungus has a dark pigmented surface, and is occasionally facultative, associated with patches of green algae, but not actually lichenized. Instead, the fungus penetrates the upper leaf surface, forming dark pigmented isodiametric cells below the epidermis. A re-examination of specimens of M. chiangraiensis, M. macrostroma and M. yunnanensis revealed the absence of algal association. In addition, Mendogia philippinensis (=M. calami) and M. bambusina (=Uleopeltis bambusina) were established based on morphological comparisons and previous studies. Comprehensive descriptions with phylogenetic analyses support M. diffusa as a novel species in Myriangiaceae. An updated key to the genus is provided.new species, morphology, phylogeny, saprobe, taxonomy

The genus Myotis is one of the most diverse and widely distributed mammals, providing a good model for studies of speciation and diversification across large geographic scales. However, the classification within this genus has long been chaotic. Taxonomic revisions based on multiple data sources are essential and urgent. In this study, morphometrics and genetic markers with different modes of inheritance were used to clarify the taxonomy of Myotis distributed in China. Based on 173 mitochondrial Cytb sequences and five morphological characteristics, 114 specimens collected nationwide over the past 20 years were assigned to 11 Myotis species. All Chinese samples classified into M. davidii and M. longipes were revised to M. alticraniatus and M. laniger. Then, two nuclear fragments (Rag2 and Chd1) and Cytb sequences from representative individuals of Chinese Myotis were used for multilocus phylogeny reconstruction and genetic divergence evaluation. The phylogenetic relationships were clearly demonstrated in the species tree: M. alticraniatus and M. laniger; M. fimbriatus, M. pilosus, M. macrodactylus, and M. petax; and M. pequinius, M. chinensis, and M. blythii formed three strongly supported monophyletic clades. Mitochondrial divergence was almost 10 times that of nuclear divergence, with interspecific K2P distances ranging from 8% to 20% for Cytb and 0.3% to 2.3% for concatenated nuclear genes. Low levels of genetic divergence were observed between M. alticraniatus and M. laniger, as well as M. fimbriatus and M. pilosus. These results provide new insights into the taxonomy and phylogeny of Myotis bats in China and are important for the future research and conservation of Chinese Myotis.

Lactifluus (Pers.) Roussel is an ectomycorrhizal genus that was recently recognized to be distinct from the genus Lactarius. To date, 226 Lactifluus species have been reported worldwide. Misidentification of Lactifluus species is common because of intraspecific morphological variation, cryptic diversity, and the limited number of taxonomic keys available. Molecular data are indispensable for species delimitation; a multilocus phylogenetic analysis showed that most Asian Lactifluus species are not conspecific with morphologically similar species present on other continents. In particular, Korea has misused European and North American Lactifluus names. In this study, we evaluated the taxonomy of Lactifluus in Korea using both morphological and multilocus molecular (ITS, nrLSU, rpb1, and rpb2) data. We examined 199 Lactifluus specimens collected between 1980 and 2016, and a total of 24 species across the four Lactifluus subgenera were identified. All Korean species are distinct and clearly separated from European and North American species. Five taxa corresponded to previously described species from Asia and the remaining 19 taxa are confirmed as new species. Herein, we provide keys to the Korean Lactifluus species within their subgenera, molecular phylogenies, a summary of diversity, and detailed description of the new species.

[Display omitted] • The divergence times and evolutionary relationships of Schizoparmaceae were analyzed for the first time. • The ancestor of Schizoparmaceae split from Upper Cretaceous period approximately 75.7 Mya was revealed using molecular clock analyses. • Most likely origin of the family Schizoparmaceae was exposed in Africa by Reconstructing Ancestral State in Phylogenies (RASP) coupled with Bayesian Binary Markov chain Monte Carlo (BBM) Method. • Three new species and a key of Pseudoplagiostomataceae, and a new species of Schizoparmaceae were reported first. The Diaporthales includes 32 families, many of which are important plant pathogens, endophytes and saprobes, e.g., members of the families Pseudoplagiostomataceae, Pyrisporaceae and Schizoparmaceae. Nucleotide sequences derived from five genetic loci including: ITS, LSU, TEF1-α, TUB2 and RPB2 were used for Bayesian evolutionary analysis to determine divergence times and evolutionary relationships within the Schizoparmaceae. Molecular clock analyses revealed that the ancestor of Schizoparmaceae split during the Upper Cretaceous period approximately 75.7 Mya (95 % highest posterior density of 60.3–91.3 Mya). Reconstructing ancestral state in phylogenies (RASP) with using the Bayesian Binary Markov chain Monte Carlo (BBM) Method to reconstruct the historical biogeography for the family Schizoparmaceae indicated its most likely origin in Africa. Based on taxonomic and phylogenetic analyses, the Pseudoplagiostomataceae and Pyrisporaceae relationships were clarified and a total of four species described herein. For Pseudoplagiostomataceae, three new species and one known species that include, Pseudoplagiostoma fafuense sp. nov., Ps. ilicis sp. nov., Ps. sanmingense sp. nov. and Ps. bambusae are described and a key of Pseudoplagiostomataceae is provided. With respect to Pyrisporaceae, we considered Pseudoplagiostoma castaneae to be a synonym of Pyrispora castaneae. In addition, a new species of Schizoparmaceae, Coniella fujianensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptosphaeriaceae is a widely distributed fungal family with diverse lifestyles. The family includes several genera that can be distinguished by morphology and molecular phylogenetic analysis. During our investigation of saprobic fungi on grasslands in Yunnan Province, China, four fungal taxa belonging to Leptosphaeriaceae associated with grasses were collected. Morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of the combined SSU, LSU, ITS, tub2, and rpb2 loci based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were used to reveal the taxonomic placement of these fungal taxa. This study introduces four new taxa, viz. Leptosphaeria yunnanensis, L. zhaotongensis, Paraleptosphaeria kunmingensis, and Plenodomus zhaotongensis. Colour photo plates, full descriptions, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of the new taxa are provided.

Hydnocarpus longipedunculatus , a medically significant tree species, is threatened and has a narrow distribution, being endemic to the Southern Western Ghats of India. A case of fruit rot disease was observed in a solitary tree of H. longipedunculatus in the Kulamavu forest areas of Kerala, India. The causative fungus, Lasiodiplodia theobromae , was isolated and identified through a combination of morpho-cultural characteristics and molecular sequence analysis involving the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), partial translation elongation factor-1-α (TEF1-α), partial β-tubulin (TUB2), and large subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (LSU) regions. Additionally, concatenated multigene (ITS- TEF1-α-TUB2) phylogenetic analysis was done. Pathogenicity tests were conducted in vitro using mycelial disc methods and confirmed the pathogenic nature of the fungus through re-isolation and morphocultural analysis, satisfying Koch's postulates. Previous studies neither have reported H. longipedunculatus as a host for L. theobromae , nor has any genus within Hydnocarpus. Therefore, this represents the first documented instance of H. longipedunculatus as a novel host record for L. theobromae from India. [Display omitted] • Severe fruit rots disease was observed on H. longipedunculatus with 33 % disease incidence. • The causative agent was identified as Lasiodiplodia theobromae using integrative approaches. • This is the first record of Lasiodiplodia theobromae causing fruit rots on H. longipedunculatus from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) is an economically valuable landscaping ornamental plant. Serious outbreaks have been reported, in its leaf tips curl upward, irregular black brown spots appear on leaves, and extensive defoliation is commonly observed. The incidence in Hangzhou was estimated at 50% and resulted in large economic losses for growers in 2018. Samples were collected from the main cultivation area in Zhejiang Province. In total, 11 fungal isolates were obtained from diseased leaves through a single-spore purification method, and isolate LVY 9 exhibited strong pathogenicity. Based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on multilocus sequence typing of the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, actin (ACT), calmodulin (CAL), and chitin synthase (CHS-1) genes, we identified the pathogen as Colletotrichum siamense, causative agent of anthracnose of winterberry holly.

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. is one of the major problems in mango production worldwide, including Thailand. All mango cultivars are susceptible, but Nam Dok Mai See Thong (NDMST) is the most vulnerable. Through a single spore isolation method, a total of 37 isolates of Colletotrichum spp. were obtained from NDMST showing anthracnose symptoms. Identification was performed using a combination of morphology characteristics, Koch’s postulates, and phylogenetic analysis. The pathogenicity assay and Koch’s postulates on leaves and fruit confirmed that all Colletotrichum spp. tested were causal agents of mango anthracnose. Multilocus analysis using DNA sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, β-tubulin (TUB2), actin (ACT), and chitin synthase (CHS-1) was performed for molecular identification. Two concatenated phylogenetic trees were constructed using either two-loci of ITS and TUB2, or four-loci of ITS, TUB2, ACT, and CHS-1. Both phylogenetic trees were indistinguishable and showed that these 37 isolates belong to C. acutatum, C. asianum, C. gloeosporioides, and C. siamense. Our results indicated that using at least two loci of ITS and TUB2, were sufficient to infer Colletotrichum species complexes. Of 37 isolates, C. gloeosporioides was the most dominant species (19 isolates), followed by C. asianum (10 isolates), C. acutatum (5 isolates), and C. siamense (3 isolates). In Thailand, C. gloeosporioides and C. acutatum have been reported to cause anthracnose in mango, however, this is the first report of C. asianum and C. siamense associated with mango anthracnose in central Thailand.

Polydiscidium is an enigmatic, monotypic, and rarely reported genus of Ascomycota of uncertain placement. The morphologically unique Polydiscidium martynii grows on dead wood and forms compound ascomata composed of thick, black, gelatinous somatic tissue that branches out from a common base. Multiple apothecia are located on the branches, mostly toward the tips, and are composed of 8-spored asci and paraphyses embedded in a gelatinous matrix that turns blue in Melzer's reagent. The species was previously known from only three collections from Guyana (holotype), Trinidad, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and no sequences exist. Due to its peculiar morphology, taxonomic affinities of Polydiscidium have been debated, with different authors having placed it in Helotiaceae, Leotiaceae, or Leotiomycetes incertae sedis. Recent collections of this species resulting from long-term field work in Guyana and Cameroon led us to revisit the morphology and phylogenetic position of this fungus. Newly generated sequences of P. martynii were added to an Ascomycota-wide six-locus data set. The resulting phylogeny showed Polydiscidium to be a member of order Sclerococcales (Eurotiomycetes). Next, a four-locus (18S, ITS, 28S, mtSSU) phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that Polydiscidium is congeneric with Sclerococcum. A new combination is proposed for this species, Sclerococcum martynii. Micromorphological features, including the gelatinous hymenium composed of asci with amyloid gel cap and septate brown ascospores, are in agreement with Sclerococcum. New combinations are proposed for two additional species: Sclerococcum chiangraiensis and S. fusiformis. Finally, Dactylosporales is considered a later synonym of Sclerococcales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brasilioporus olivaceoflavidus, gen. et sp. nov., Brasilioporus simoniarum, sp. nov., Neotropicomus australis, gen. et sp. nov., and Nevesoporus nigrostipitatus, gen. et sp. nov. (Boletaceae, Boletales, Basidiomycota), are described from the endangered Atlantic Forest biome of eastern Brazil. New combinations into these new genera are proposed for the Guyanese taxa Xerocomus parvogracilis, Tylopilus rufonigricans, and Tylopilus exiguus. Boletaceae subfamily Chalciporoideae was recircumscribed to include the new genus Nevesoporus. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using a multilocus data set (ITS+28S+TEF1+RPB1+RPB2) from a large taxon set across the Boletaceae justify recognition of the new genera. Morphological, ecological, and DNA sequence data are provided for the new species. A key to known native and introduced bolete species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was aimed to introduce five new species of Cordyceps from Yunnan, with morphological descriptions, illustrations, color photographs, phylogenetic placement, associated host, and a comparison with allied taxa. The five new species were morphologically distinct from all other Cordyceps sensu lato species, and it was also suggested that they should differ from other species in the genus Cordyceps based on combined multigene analyses. Employing DNA nucleotide sequences of the nr LSU , nr SSU , tef-1 α, rpb1 , and rpb2 , the five new species were recognized in the clade of Cordyceps by using molecular phylogenetic analyses, including five well-supported subclades: three new species, Cordyceps bullispora, Cordyceps longiphialis , and Cordyceps nabanheensis , were found in the subclade of C. pruinosa , and two new species, Cordyceps pseudotenuipes and Cordyceps simaoensis , were located in the subclade of C. tenuipes. The five novel species shared similar morphologies to other species in the genus Cordyceps , with fleshy and brightly pigmented stromata; perithecia superficial to completely immersed, ordinal in arrangement; and hyaline asci, with thickened cylindrical ascus apex. The morphological characteristics of 66 species in Cordyceps sensu stricto , namely, 5 novel species and 61 known taxa, were also compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Colletotrichum is regarded as one of the 10 most important genera of plant pathogens in the world. It causes diseases in a wide range of economically important plants, including peaches. China is the largest producer of peaches in the world but little is known about the Colletotrichum spp. affecting the crop. In 2017 and 2018, a total of 286 Colletotrichum isolates were isolated from symptomatic fruit and leaves in 11 peach production provinces of China. Based on multilocus phylogenetic analyses (ITS, ACT, CAL, CHS-1, GAPDH, TUB2, and HIS3) and morphological characterization, the isolates were identified to be C. nymphaeae, C. fioriniae, and C. godetiae of the C. acutatum species complex, C. fructicola and C. siamense of the C. gloeosporioides species complex, C. karsti of the C. boninense species complex, and one newly identified species, C. folicola sp. nov. This study is the first report of C. karsti and C. godetiae in peaches, and the first report of C. nymphaeae, C. fioriniae, C. fructicola, and C. siamense in peaches in China. C. nymphaeae is the most prevalent species of Colletotrichum in peaches in China, which may be the result of fungicide selection. Pathogenicity tests revealed that all species found in this study were pathogenic on both the leaves and fruit of peaches, except for C. folicola, which only infected the leaves. The present study substantially improves our understanding of the causal agents of anthracnose on peaches in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) anthracnose is a major threat in production areas worldwide. Most of the studies are focused on Colletotrichum horii , but other species have been reported as well. The association of distinct Colletotrichum species present in Brazilian persimmon production regions as well as their host ranges are yet elusive. The aims of this work were to identify and characterize Colletotrichum species associated with the persimmon anthracnose. In a survey performed in four production regions of Brazil, 88.7% and 11.3% out of 231 isolates were identified as members of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex (Cgc) or Colletotrichum acutatum species complex (Cac), respectively. A subset of 18 isolates were identified through multilocus phylogenetic analysis, using ITS-rDNA region and two loci, namely GAPDH and TUB2. This study revealed the presence of four species: C. horii (38.8%) and Colletotrichum fructicola (27.7%) from the Cgc and Colletotrichum nymphaeae (27.7%) and Colletotrichum melonis (5.8%) , from the Cac. Additionally, 13 isolates were selected for morphological, physiological, and pathogenic analyses. Contrasting characteristics were observed among species of the Cgc and Cac complexes. The optimal temperature for mycelial growth and germination were higher for Cgc species. The percentage of appressoria melanisation also varied across complexes. All the identified species were able to cause anthracnose-like symptoms on persimmon fruit, leaves, shoots, and sepals. Colletotrichum species from persimmon were also able to infect apple and pear. The findings will support decisions to manage anthracnose of persimmon under high infection risk due to multiple host susceptibility. • Four different species causing persimmon anthracnose were characterized. • Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex were the most frequent species in Brazil. • Major differences among Colletotrichum species were reported. • Cross-infection of Colletotrichum in persimmon, apple, and pear was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was aimed to introduce five new species of Cordyceps from Yunnan, with morphological descriptions, illustrations, color photographs, phylogenetic placement, associated host, and a comparison with allied taxa. The five new species were morphologically distinct from all other Cordyceps sensu lato species, and it was also suggested that they should differ from other species in the genus Cordyceps based on combined multigene analyses. Employing DNA nucleotide sequences of the nrLSU, nrSSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2, the five new species were recognized in the clade of Cordyceps by using molecular phylogenetic analyses, including five well-supported subclades: three new species, Cordyceps bullispora, Cordyceps longiphialis, and Cordyceps nabanheensis, were found in the subclade of C. pruinosa, and two new species, Cordyceps pseudotenuipes and Cordyceps simaoensis, were located in the subclade of C. tenuipes. The five novel species shared similar morphologies to other species in the genus Cordyceps, with fleshy and brightly pigmented stromata; perithecia superficial to completely immersed, ordinal in arrangement; and hyaline asci, with thickened cylindrical ascus apex. The morphological characteristics of 66 species in Cordyceps sensu stricto, namely, 5 novel species and 61 known taxa, were also compared.

Background: A new species within the genus Alternaria was isolated from the leaf spot of Atractylodes ovata in the Mungyeong and Hwabuk-myeon districts of the Gyeongbuk province of Korea. The leaves showed disease symptoms such as circular or irregular leaf spots and brown to dark brown with gray spots at the center. The leaves also showed that concentric rings were surrounded with yellow halos. Methods and results: Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using the sequence dataset of the internal transcribed spacer region and part of the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. The RNA polymerase II second largest subunit, endopolygalacturonase, Alternaria major allergen gene, anonymous gene region, and translation elongation factor 1-alpha genes were used as well. Results showed that present fungal isolates were distinct from other species of the sect. Alternaria. Morphologically, the present isolates also differed from other members of the sect. Alternaria in their production of solitary conidia or conidial chains (two units) and conidial body features. Similarly, it exhibited moderate pathogenicity in the host plant. Conclusions: This study described and illustrated A. koreana as a new species and the causal agent of the leaf-spot disease on A. ovata in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Crown and root rot is the most important and destructive strawberry diseases in Korea as it causes substantial economic loss. In August 2020, a severe outbreak of crown and root rot on strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) was observed in the greenhouse at Sangju, South Korea. Infected plantlets displayed browning rot within the crown and root, stunted growth, and poor rooting. Methods and results: Thirty fungal isolates were obtained from the affected plantlet. Isolates were identified based on morphological characteristics and pathogenicity test as well as sequence data obtained from internal transcribed spacer, large subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid, translation elongation factor, and RNA polymerase II-second largest subunit. Results showed that the crown and root rot of strawberry in Korea was caused by three distinct fungal species: Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. fragariae, F. solani, and Plectosphaerella cucumerina. To the best of our knowledge, F. solani, and P. cucumerina are reported for the first time as the causal agents of the crown and root rot of strawberry in South Korea. Pathogenicity tests confirmed that these isolates are pathogenic to strawberry. Conclusions: Understanding the composition and biology of the pathogen population will be helpful to provide effective control strategies for the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many abiotic and biotic factors can negatively affect the production and productivity of coconut cropping systems. The incidence of Lasiodiplodia species in crops can lead to significant economic losses due to the development of leaf blight and, consequently, both pre- and post-harvest stem-end rot of fruits. The management of these pathogens is complex, expensive and primarily depends, on the massive use of chemical products. In addition, decision making on effective control measures depends on the target pathogen. This work evaluated epidemiological aspects of Lasiodiplodia species, in association with the green dwarf coconut from Northeastern Brazil. The isolates were sampled in production areas located in the dry, sub-humid and humid climatic zones in the states of Pernambuco and Paraíba and were identified using multilocus phylogenetics with the tef1-α, ITS, tub2, and rpb2 regions. Lasiodiplodia theobromae was found in crops present in all three evaluated zones while L. pseudotheobromae was reported only in the dry zone of Pernambuco. All species were pathogenic to green dwarf coconut, with L. theobromae, L. pseudotheobromae and L. subglobosa being the most aggressive species. The recognition of L. theobromae, L. pseudotheobromae, L. brasiliensis and L. subglobosa, in coconut plants from Northeast Brazil, complements the scientific understanding about stem-end rot and leaf blight in coconut crop. Additionally, this study presents relevant information on the pathogenic characteristics of these species that can be used in future research into epidemiological factors, fungal resistance, phytosanitary management and genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ophiocordyceps is the largest genus in the family Ophiocordicipitaceae, including many entomopathogenic species. In recent years, many species have been described in this genus, with a wide range of host insects. Entomopathogenic fungi include ecologically, economically and medicinally important species, but a large portion of their diversity remains to be discovered and described. New information In this study, a new species, Ophiocordyceps aphrophoridarum sp. nov, parasitising Aphrophoridae sp. (Hemiptera) is proposed from China, based on evidence from morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses. This species is characterised by fibrous, pigmented stromata, cylindrical asci and filiform ascospores. Compared to its closest relative, O. tricentri, the new species has wider perithecia and longer asci. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of a multilocus dataset (consisting of SSU, ITS, LSU, TEF1, RPB1 and RPB2) confirm its placement in Ophiocordyceps. Ophiocordyceps aphrophoridarum is morphologically described and illustrated with colour photographs. Morphological comparisons with closely-related species are also presented in tabulated format. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]