Review
Mycology
Mao-Qiang He, Rui-Lin Zhao, Dong-Mei Liu, Teodor T. Denchev, Dominik Begerow, Andrey Yurkov, Martin Kemler, Ana M. Millanes, Mats Wedin, A. R. McTaggart, Roger G. Shivas, Bart Buyck, Jie Chen, Alfredo Vizzini, Viktor Papp, Ivan Zmitrovich, Naveed Davoodian, Kevin D. Hyde
Summary: This study reviews the species diversity of Basidiomycota in different lifestyles and habitats, highlighting the higher publication rate of new species in lichenicolous yeast-like taxa and the lower discovery rate of plant parasitic basidiomycetes. The establishment of a comprehensive taxonomic system through a global initiative by mycologists is found to be important for promoting and standardizing the recognition of taxa. Estimates suggest that over 54,000 species of Basidiomycota will be discovered by 2030, highlighting the significant gap between described and unknown diversity in this phylum.
Article
Microbiology
Xin-Cun Wang, Wen-Ying Zhuang
Summary: This article describes the discovery of four new species of Aspergillus fungus, which are important in food, industrial, and medical contexts as well as being closely related to human daily life. The new species were identified through phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons, and detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided.
Article
Immunology
Meng Zhou, Xiao-Hong Ji, Hong-Gao Liu, Kurt Miller, Yuan Yuan, Josef Vlasak
Summary: Two new species, Fulvifomes acaciae and Pyrrhoderma nigra, have been described and illustrated based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. F. acaciae is characterized by ash gray to dark gray, encrusted and cracked pileal surface, circular pores with entire dissepiments, and ellipsoid basidiospores. P. nigra is characterized by dark gray to black pore surface, small circular pores, and ellipsoid basidiospores. The differences between these new species and closely related species are discussed, and identification keys for Fulvifomes and Pyrrhoderma are provided.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Yu Liu, Fangliang He
Summary: This study investigated the effects of warming on plant-soil feedback (PSF) by conducting a field experiment. The results showed that warming reduced seedling mortality of a rhizobia-associated tree species but had no effect on an ectomycorrhizal fungi-associated tree species. These findings suggest that warming may alter tropical tree species composition and diversity through changes in soil-borne microbes and their interactions with plants.
Article
Microbiology
Xu Lu, Ting Cao, Trang Thi Thu Nguyen, Hai-Sheng Yuan
Summary: Six new species of the basidiomycetous genus Tomentella from central Vietnam in Southeast Asia are described and identified based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The phylogenetic positions of these new species were confirmed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses. The host plant for these new species were speculated based on phylogenetic analyses and the tree species information of the investigated forests.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Chang Liu, Xin-Cun Wang, Zhi-He Yu, Wen-Ying Zhuang, Zhao-Qing Zeng
Summary: This article reports the discovery and description of seven new species of Eurotiales from tidal flat sediments in China. They belong to different subgenera and sections of the Eurotiales. Morphological characteristics and DNA sequence analyses were used to confirm their classification as new species, and detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Caroline Chimeno, Stefan Schmidt, Bruno Cancian de Araujo, Kate Perez, Thomas von Rintelen, Olga Schmidt, Hasmiandy Hamid, Raden Pramesa Narakusumo, Michael Balke
Summary: Arthropods are crucial organisms in terrestrial systems, but little is known about highly abundant and megadiverse groups, especially in the tropics. Our study analyzed arthropod communities using DNA barcoding techniques and found more than 10,000 distinct groups, with a drastic undersampling of the sampling sites. We also discovered significantly distinct communities, despite the close proximity of the two Malaise traps.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Bhavesh Raghoonundon, Olivier Raspe, Naritsada Thongklang, Kevin D. Hyde
Summary: Phlebopus is a tropical to subtropical genus of basidiomycete mushrooms with 17 species, some of which are edible and highly valued in local markets. P. portentosus and P. spongiosus are the only species known to produce basidiomes in cultivation without a host plant. This paper reviews the taxonomy, distribution, ecology and biology, edibility, medicinal properties, nutritional value, and cultivation of Phlebopus species.
Review
Microbiology
Diana S. Pereira, Alan J. L. Phillips
Summary: Palm trees are a diverse habitat with intense fungal colonization, making them an important substratum to explore fungal diversity. However, research on palm fungi is still lacking and their taxonomic classification within modern DNA sequence-based classifications needs further study. Palm trees can be considered model plants for studying fungal biodiversity and palm fungi play a key role in biodiversity surveys. It is estimated that there are over 76,000 species of palm fungi worldwide, of which more than 2500 are currently known.
Article
Plant Sciences
Ran Wang, Fu Qiang Yu, Jesus Perez Moreno, Carlos Colinas
Summary: A new Rhizopogon species associated with Pinus armandii was discovered in Southwest China, and successful mycorrhizal synthesis experiments were carried out, indicating its potential for cultivation in the region.
Article
Mycology
Xiao-Yan Pan, Zi-Kun Song, Zhi Qu, Tie-Dong Liu, Hai-Xia Ma
Summary: Three new species of Xylaria fungi found on fallen leaves in Hainan Province, China are described and illustrated based on their morphology and molecular evidence. The species include Xylaria hedyosmicola, which is closely related to an undescribed Xylaria species from Hawaii Island, USA, and morphologically similar to X. vagans; Xylaria lindericola, closely related to X. sicula f. major; and Xylaria polysporicola, closely related to X. amphithele and X. ficicola. The study also provides an identification key for ten Xylaria species found on fallen leaves in China.
Article
Mycology
Ping Du, Tian-Xu Cao, Ying-Da Wu, Meng Zhou, Zhan-Bo Liu
Summary: Two new wood-rotting fungi, Fulvifomes dracaenicola sp. nov. and Hymenochaete dracaenicola sp. nov., are described and illustrated from tropical China. They grow on Dracaena cambodiana and are characterized by different morphological features and growth habits. Phylogenetic analyses confirm their placement in the Fulvifomes and Hymenochaete genera, respectively.
Article
Soil Science
Letusa Momesso, Carlos A. C. Crusciol, Joao W. Bossolani, Luiz G. Moretti, Marcio F. A. Leite, George A. Kowalchuk, Eiko E. Kuramae
Summary: Cover crops have the potential to contribute to ecological cultivation in agriculture. This study evaluated the effects of nitrogen application timing and different cover crop species on soil properties, maize productivity, and soil bacterial and fungal community diversity. The results showed that palisade grass enhanced soil microbial diversity and maize productivity regardless of N application timing, while ruzigrass had less stable effects. These findings demonstrate the importance of cover crop selection and timing in tropical no-till agricultural systems.
SOIL & TILLAGE RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Mycology
Meng Zhou, Chao-Ge Wang, Ying-Da Wu, Shun Liu, Yuan Yuan
Summary: Brown-rot fungi selectively degrade cellulose and hemicellulose from wood. Two new brown-rot species from southern China are nested within Fomitopsis and Oligoporus clades and are strongly supported in the phylogenetic tree. The species Fomitopsis bambusae and Oligoporus podocarpi have distinct characteristics and are illustrated in the study.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Kai-Yue Luo, Meng-Han Qu, Chang-Lin Zhao
Summary: Three new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Xylodon gossypinus, X. macrosporus, and X. sinensis spp. nov., were identified in southern China, with distinct morphological features and basidiospore sizes. Phylogenetic analyses placed these species within the Schizoporaceae family in the genus Xylodon, showing relationships with other known Xylodon species.
Article
Agronomy
Er-Fu Yang, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Steven L. Stephenson, Itthayakorn Promputtha, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Salim Al-Rejaie, Putarak Chomnunti
Summary: In this study, 34 different fungal endophytic strains were isolated from healthy mango leaves in Yunnan Province. The dominant fungal endophytes were from the genus Chaetomium. Co-cultivation assays showed that certain strains of Chaetomium sp. exhibited strong inhibition against bacterial pathogens and various other fungal strains showed moderate to strong antagonistic effects against fungal pathogens.
Review
Microbiology
Soumitra Paloi, Jaturong Kumla, Barsha Pratiher Paloi, Sirasit Srinuanpan, Supawitch Hoijang, Samantha C. C. Karunarathna, Krishnendu Acharya, Nakarin Suwannarach, Saisamorn Lumyong
Summary: Termite mushrooms, classified as Termitomyces, form a symbiotic relationship with termites. They are edible and have unique food value, as well as medicinal properties. Recent studies have shown that Termitomyces have bioactive compounds that can fight against human diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's, and possess antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Moreover, enzymes from Termitomyces have potential industrial applications.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Bimal Manuranga Herath, Chaturanga Bamunuarachchige, Steven L. Stephenson, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Suhail Asad, Jaturong Kumla, Nakarin Suwannarach, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Pinnaduwage Neelamanie Yapa
Summary: This study investigated the uptake of soil-contaminated heavy metals by Azolla pinnata and Lemna gibba with and without arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in traditional and improved rice varieties. Results showed that AMF protected rice plants from the toxicity of Cd, As, Pb, and Hg in the soil. The combined application of AMF, organic fertilizer, and A. pinnata decreased heavy metal accumulation in rice roots, shoots, and grains. The translocation of heavy metals from root to shoot was reduced in AMF-inoculated rice plants.
Article
Microbiology
Ying Gao, Antonio Roberto Gomes de Farias, Hong-Bo Jiang, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Jian-Chu Xu, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Heng Gui
Summary: In this study, four new taxa belonging to Leptosphaeriaceae were discovered and identified through morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses. The researchers provided color photo plates, detailed descriptions, and a phylogenetic tree to show the taxonomic placement of the new taxa.
Review
Microbiology
Shubhi Avasthi, Ajay Kumar Gautam, Mekala Niranjan, Rajnish Kumar Verma, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Ashwani Kumar, Nakarin Suwannarach
Summary: This study provides an overview of the taxonomy, ecology, and molecular identification of Puccinia, the largest genus of rust fungi. It also discusses the threats that Puccinia poses to agricultural and nonagricultural plants. Phylogenetic analysis reveals the worldwide distribution and polyphyletic nature of Puccinia. Asian countries show a significant increase in research publications on this genus, and the families Asteraceae and Poaceae are the most infected in the 21st century.
Article
Microbiology
Er-Fu Yang, Dong-Qin Dai, Jayarama D. Bhat, Turki M. Dawoud, Itthayakorn Promputtha, Nimal Adikaram, Steven L. Stephenson, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Saowaluck Tibpromma
Summary: Investigating plant-associated fungi is important for estimating global fungal diversity, ecosystem conservation, and industrial and agricultural development. A study in Yunnan, China discovered three new species and five new records of saprobic fungi associated with mango. Phylogenetic analysis and morphological examinations were used to identify these taxa.
Review
Biology
A. K. Hasith Priyashantha, Dong-Qin Dai, Darbhe J. J. Bhat, Steven L. L. Stephenson, Itthayakorn Promputtha, Prashant Kaushik, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Samantha C. C. Karunarathna
Summary: Fungi can form various associations with plants, including pathogenic and symbiotic relationships. Pathogenic fungi cause diseases in plants and exert pressure on their survival. On the other hand, plants benefit from interactions with symbiotic fungi. Changes in climate can influence the interactions between plants and fungi, either positively or negatively. This paper explores these interactions and their importance in agricultural practices.
Article
Biology
Nipuni Mayadunna, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Suhail Asad, Steven L. Stephenson, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Salim Al-Rejaie, Jaturong Kumla, Neelamanie Yapa, Nakarin Suwannarach
Summary: The study aimed to evaluate the phosphate-solubilizing efficiency of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs) using tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and Eppawala rock phosphate (ERP). A series of identified isolates were compared in phosphate solubilization using TCP and ERP as a P source. Twelve isolates with higher efficiency were selected for biofertilizer production. The pot trial with Capsicum annuum L. showed that the application of native PSMs as biofertilizer effectively increased plant height, leaf length, and width.
Article
Plant Sciences
Samantha c. Karunarathna, A. K. Hasith Priyashantha, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Mahesh C. A. Galappaththi, Bhagya M. Premarathne, Nalin N. Wijayawardene, Madhara K. Wimalasena, R. G. Udeni Jayalal, Kawmini D. Wickramanayake, Hasanka Dangalla, W. Hashini Jayathunga, Rashika S. Brahmanage, Gothamie Weerakoon, Kahandawa G. S. U. Ariyawansa, Neelamanie Yapa, Chandrika M. Nanayakkara, Surani Ediriweera, Xin-Lei Fan, Paul M. Kirk, Gui-Qing Zhang, Aseni Ediriweera, D. Jayarama Bhat, Turki M. Dawoud, K. l. Wasantha Kumara, Chun Ying Deng, Dong-Qin Dai, D. Siril Wijesundara, Sumedha Madawala
Summary: This paper presents a checklist of basidiomycetes species in Sri Lanka, comprising a total of 725 species belonging to 138 genera, and provides updated nomenclature status for them.
Article
Plant Sciences
Sruthi O. Paraparath, Sakshi Rajkumar, Kunhiraman C. Rajeshkumar, Rajnish K. Verma, Ajay Kumar Gautam, Bhavna Narula, Nalin N. Wijayawardene, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Samantha C. Karunarathna
Summary: The monotypic genus Excipulariopsis, with type species E. narsapurensis, was established based on the emended generic characteristics. This study used phylogenetic analysis to position Excipulariopsis allied to Speiropsis in the family Wiesneriomycetaceae, as a sister family to Tubeufiaceae within Tubeufiales. This resolves the long-standing ambiguity about the phylogenetic status of this unique sporodochial setose hyphomycetes from India.
Article
Plant Sciences
Kasun M. Thambugala, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Chang-Lin Zhao, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Danushka S. Tennakoon, Ushari A. Konara
Summary: In this study, a new species of Perenniporiopsis and the validation of Pyrrhoderma nigrum were identified using morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analyses based on combined ITS and nLSU sequence data.
Article
Plant Sciences
Yiming Lei, Erfu Yang, Chengjiao Dao, Xi Li, Samantha C. . Karunarathna, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Kai Yan
Summary: The Kunyang phosphate mine in Yunnan Province, China, is one of Asia's largest and most ancient open-pit phosphate mines. However, mining activities and abandoned phosphate mines have caused significant soil erosion and water degradation, necessitating immediate ecological restoration efforts. A study conducted in the mining sites of Kunming, Yunnan, identified a new species and three new host records of endophytic fungi associated with a pioneer plant. This research contributes to the isolation of indigenous beneficial fungi and the promotion of plant-microbe combined remediation.
Article
Plant Sciences
Shiyu Zhang, Shuang Ye, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Samantha c. Karunarathna, Gaojuan Zhao, Ausana Mapook, Jianchu Xu
Summary: In this study, an endophytic Marasmiellus species collected from Aquilaria sinensis in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China was isolated and identified as Marasmiellus scandens through phylogenetic and morphological analyses. Furthermore, the fruiting bodies of M. scandens were successfully cultivated, providing a new record of its cultivation in its endophytic form.
Review
Biology
Suhail Asad, Alviti Kankanamalage Hasith Priyashantha, Saowaluck Tibpromma, Yinling Luo, Jianqiang Zhang, Zhuqing Fan, Likun Zhao, Ke Shen, Chen Niu, Li Lu, Itthayakorn Promputtha, Samantha C. Karunarathna
Summary: The study on coffee endophytes has shown that they can enhance coffee plant growth and minimize pest damages, making them a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. In the coffee beverage industry, using coffee endophytes is advantageous as they improve the aroma and flavor of the beverage.
Article
Agronomy
Kammala Waththe Asanka Madhushan, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Dharmasiri Dissanayake, Tikka Devage Chamarika Priyadarshani, Steven L. Stephenson, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Turki M. Dawoud, Alviti Kankanamalage Hasith Priyashantha, Dongqing Dai, Pinnaduwage Neelamanie Yapa, Xiaoyan Wang
Summary: In this study, the growth and yield responses of Sri Lankan lowland rice were evaluated under different soil nutrient management systems, with the application of beneficial Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and intercropping with vetiver grass. The results showed that the utilization of AMF and vetiver in organic soil significantly increased the grain yield of rice.
