The phylogenetic position of Obolarina dryophila (Xylariales)

The inconspicuous inner-bark parasite Obolarina dryophila is reported from wood of Quercus petraea and as an endophyte of Salix alba. In addition, viable ascospores of O. dryophila have been found in the gut of the oak bark weevil Gasterocercus depressirostris, suggesting a possible dissemination mechanism for the fungus. A phylogenetic analysis based on three genes (nrDNA, actin, beta-tubulin) placed Obolarina inside the genus Biscogniauxia as a close relative of the oak pathogens B. atropunctata and B. mediterranea.