Families of Diaporthales based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence

What are the 100 most cited fungal genera?

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated between 2 to 11 million species, of which only about 155 000 have been named. Most fungi are invisible to the unaided eye, but they represent a major component of biodiversity on our planet, and play essential ecological roles, supporting life as we know it. Although approximately 20 000 fungal genera are presently recognised, the ecology of most remains undetermined. Despite all this diversity, the mycological community actively researches some fungal genera more commonly than others. This poses an interesting question: why have some fungal genera impacted mycology and related fields more than others? To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited fungal genera. A thorough database search of the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed was performed to establish which genera are most cited. The most cited 10 genera are Saccharomyces, Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Botrytis, Pichia, Cryptococcus and Alternaria. Case studies are presented for the 100 most cited genera with general background, notes on their ecology and economic significance and important research advances. This paper provides a historic overview of scientific research of these genera and the prospect for further research. Citation: Bhunjun CS, Chen YJ, Phukhamsakda C, Boekhout T, Groenewald JZ, McKenzie EHC, Francisco EC, Frisvad JC, Groenewald M, Hurdeal VG, Luangsa-ard J, Perrone G, Visagie CM, Bai FY, Błaszkowski J, Braun U, de Souza FA, de Queiroz MB, Dutta AK, Gonkhom D, Goto BT, Guarnaccia V, Hagen F, Houbraken J, Lachance MA, Li JJ, Luo KY, Magurno F, Mongkolsamrit S, Robert V, Roy N, Tibpromma S, Wanasinghe DN, Wang DQ, Wei DP, Zhao CL, Aiphuk W, Ajayi-Oyetunde O, Arantes TD, Araujo JC, Begerow D, Bakhshi M, Barbosa RN, Behrens FH, Bensch K, Bezerra JDP, Bilański P, Bradley CA, Bubner B, Burgess TI, Buyck B, Čadež N, Cai L, Calaça FJS, Campbell LJ, Chaverri P, Chen YY, Chethana KWT, Coetzee B, Costa MM, Chen Q, Custódio FA, Dai YC, Damm U, de Azevedo Santiago ALCM, De Miccolis Angelini RM, Dijksterhuis J, Dissanayake AJ, Doilom M, Dong W, Alvarez-Duarte E, Fischer M, Gajanayake AJ, Gené J, Gomdola D, Gomes AAM, Hausner G, He MQ, Hou L, Iturrieta-González I, Jami F, Jankowiak R, Jayawardena RS, Kandemir H, Kiss L, Kobmoo N, Kowalski T, Landi L, Lin CG, Liu JK, Liu XB, Loizides M, Luangharn T, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Makhathini Mkhwanazi GJ, Manawasinghe IS, Marin-Felix Y, McTaggart AR, Moreau PA, Morozova OV, Mostert L, Osiewacz HD, Pem D, Phookamsak R, Pollastro S, Pordel A, Poyntner C, Phillips AJL, Phonemany M, Promputtha I, Rathnayaka AR, Rodrigues AM, Romanazzi G, Rothmann L, Salgado-Salazar C, Sandoval-Denis M, Saupe SJ, Scholler M, Scott P, Shivas RG, Silar P, Souza-Motta CM, Silva-Filho AGS, Spies CFJ, Stchigel AM, Sterflinger K, Summerbell RC, Svetasheva TY, Takamatsu S, Theelen B, Theodoro RC, Thines M, Thongklang N, Torres R, Turchetti B, van den Brule T, Wang XW, Wartchow F, Welti S, Wijesinghe SN, Wu F, Xu R, Yang ZL, Yilmaz N, Yurkov A, Zhao L, Zhao RL, Zhou N, Hyde KD, Crous PW (2024). What are the 100 most cited fungal genera? Studies in Mycology 108: 1-411. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.108.01.

Phylogenetic and Morphological Evidence for Three New Species of Diaporthales (Ascomycota) from Fujian Province, China

Members of the fungal order Diaporthales are sac fungi that include plant pathogens (the notorious chestnut blight fungus), as well as saprobes and endophytes, and are capable of colonizing a wide variety of substrates in different ecosystems, habitats, and hosts worldwide. However, many Diaporthales species remain unidentified, and various inconsistencies within its taxonomic category remain to be resolved. Here, we aimed to identify and classify new species of Diaporthales by using combined morphological and molecular characterization and coupling this information to expand our current phylogenetic understanding of this order. Fungal samples were obtained from dead branches and diseasedleaves of Camellia (Theaceae) and Castanopsis (Fagaceae) in Fujian Province, China. Based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses derived from the combined nucleotide sequences of loci of the internal transcribed spacer regions with the intervening 5.8S nrRNA gene (ITS), the 28S large subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (LSU), the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (tef1), the partial beta-tubulin gene (tub2), and partial RNA polymerase II second-largest subunit gene (rpb2), three new species of Diaporthales were identified and characterized. They are as follows: Chrysofolia camelliae sp. nov., Dendrostoma castanopsidis sp. nov., and Pseudoplagiostoma wuyishanense sp. nov. They are described and illustrated. This study extends our understanding of species diversity within the Diaporthales.

Incidence of resistance to ALS and ACCase inhibitors in Echinochloa species and soil microbial composition in Northern Italy

The increasing amount of weeds surviving herbicide represents a very serious problem for crop management. The interaction between microbial community of soil and herbicide resistance, along with the potential evolutive consequences, are still poorly known and need to be investigated to better understand the impact on agricultural management. In our study, we analyzed the microbial composition of soils in 32 farms, located in the Northern Italy rice-growing area (Lombardy) with the aim to evaluate the relationship between the microbial composition and the incidence of resistance to acetolactate synthase (ALS) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibiting herbicides in Echinochloa species. We observed that the coverage of weeds survived herbicide treatment was higher than 60% in paddy fields with a low microbial biodiversity and less than 5% in those with a high microbial biodiversity. Fungal communities showed a greater reduction in richness than Bacteria. In soils with a reduced microbial diversity, a significant increase of some bacterial and fungal orders (i.e. Lactobacillales, Malasseziales and Diaporthales) was observed. Interestingly, we identified two different microbial profiles linked to the two conditions: high incidence of herbicide resistance (H-HeR) and low incidence of herbicide resistance (L-HeR). Overall, the results we obtained allow us to make hypotheses on the greater or lesser probability of herbicide resistance occurrence based on the composition of the soil microbiome and especially on the degree of biodiversity of the microbial communities.

Taxonomy and pathogenicity of fungi associated with oak decline in northern and central Zagros forests of Iran with emphasis on coelomycetous species

Oak decline is a complex disorder that seriously threatens the survival of Zagros forests. In an extensive study on taxonomy and pathology of fungi associated with oak decline in the central and northern part of Zagros forests, 462 fungal isolates were obtained from oak trees showing canker, gummosis, dieback, defoliation, and partial or total death symptoms. Based on inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) fingerprinting patterns, morphological characteristics, and sequences of ribosomal DNA (28S rDNA and ITS) and protein coding loci (acl1, act1, caM, tef-1α, rpb1, rpb2, and tub2), 24 fungal species corresponding to 19 genera were characterized. Forty percent of the isolates were placed in eight coelomycetous species from seven genera, namely, Alloeutypa, Botryosphaeria, Cytospora, Didymella, Gnomoniopsis, Kalmusia, and Neoscytalidium. Of these, four species are new to science, which are introduced here as taxonomic novelties: Alloeutypa iranensis sp. nov., Cytospora hedjaroudei sp. nov., Cytospora zagrosensis sp. nov., and Gnomoniopsis quercicola sp. nov. According to pathogenicity trials on leaves and stems of 2-year-old Persian oak (Quercus brantii) seedlings, Alternaria spp. (A. alternata, A. atra, and A. contlous), Chaetomium globosum, and Parachaetomium perlucidum were recognized as nonpathogenic. All coelomycetous species were determined as pathogenic in both pathogenicity trials on leaves and seedling stems, of which Gnomoniopsis quercicola sp. nov., Botryosphaeria dothidea, and Neoscytalidium dimidiatum were recognized as the most virulent species followed by Biscogniauxia rosacearum.

Morphology and phylogeny of Cytospora (Cytosporaceae, Diaporthales) species associated with plant cankers in Tibet, China

During our biodiversity investigations in Tibet, China, typical Cytospora canker symptoms were observed on branches of hosts Myricariapaniculate, Prunuscerasifera and Sibiraeaangustata. Samples were studied, based on morphological features coupled with multigene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, act, rpb2, tef1 and tub2 sequence data, which revealed two new species (Cytosporamyricicolasp. nov. and C.sibiraeicolasp. nov.) and a known species (C.populina). In addition, Cytosporapopulina is newly discovered on the host Prunuscerasifera and in Tibet.

Molecular Characterization and Pathogenicity of Diaporthe Species Causing Nut Rot of Hazelnut in Italy

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana), a nut crop that is rapidly expanding worldwide, is endangered by a rot. Nut rot results in hazelnut defects. A survey was conducted in northwestern Italy during 2020 and 2021 to identify the causal agents of hazelnut rots. Typical symptoms of black rot, mold, and necrotic spots were observed on hazelnuts. The prevalent fungi isolated from symptomatic hazelnut kernels were Diaporthe spp. (38%), Botryosphaeria dothidea (26%), Diplodia seriata (14%), and other fungal genera with less frequent occurrences. Among 161 isolated Diaporthe spp., 40 were selected for further analysis. Based on morphological characterization and multilocus phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, tef-1α, and tub2, seven Diaporthe species were identified as D. eres, D. foeniculina, D. novem, D. oncostoma, D. ravennica, D. rudis, and D. sojae. D. eres was the main species isolated from hazelnut rots, in particular from moldy nuts. The pathogenicity test performed on hazelnuts 'Tonda Gentile del Piemonte' using a mycelium plug showed that all the Diaporthe isolates were pathogenic on their original host. To our knowledge, this work is the first report of D. novem, D. oncostoma, and D. ravennica on hazelnuts worldwide. D. foeniculina, D. rudis, and D. sojae were reported for the first time as agents of hazelnut rot in Italy. Future studies should focus on the comprehension of epidemiology and climatic conditions favoring the development of Diaporthe spp. on hazelnut. Prevention and control measures should target D. eres, representing the main causal agents responsible for defects and nut rot of hazelnuts in Italy.

Morphology and Phylogeny Reveal Three New Species of Cytospora Associated with Tree Cankers in China

Cytospora (Cytosporaceae, Diaporthales) is a fungal genus that usually inhabits plants as endophytes, saprobes, as well as pathogens. Species of this genus are characterized by possessing allantoid hyaline conidia and ascospores. Samples with typical Cytospora canker symptoms on Prunus davidiana, P. padus and Salix sp. were collected in Tibet and Xinjiang, China. Species were identified using both morphological and molecular approaches of combined loci of internal transcribed spacer region rDNA (ITS), the partial actin (act) region, RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) gene and the partial be-ta-tubulin (tub2) gene. Six isolates in the present study formed three distinct clades from previously known species. Cytospora hejingensis sp. nov. from Salix sp., C. jilongensis sp. nov. from P. davidiana and C. kunsensis from P. padus were proposed herein. The current study improves the understanding of species concept in Cytospora.

A Phylogenetic and Taxonomic Revision of Discula theae-sinensis, the Causal Agents of Anthracnose on Camellia sinensis

Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) is one of the most important economic plants in China, and has many benefits for human health. Anthracnose is one of the most serious diseases of tea in China, and control of the fungus is important since most Chinese cultivars are susceptible to it. The agent of tea anthracnose was initially described as Gloeosporium theae-sinensis I. Miyake in Japan, which was later transferred to Discula, but this taxonomic position remains problematic. To shed light on these taxonomic and phylogenetic issues, the tea anthracnose pathogens were re-studied. Combining the morphological characteristics and a multigene phylogenetic analysis of nrITS, nrLSU, rpb2, and tef1 sequence data, a new genus Sinodiscula was proposed to accommodate the causal fungi of tea anthracnose, including a new species Sinodiscula camellicola and a new combination Sinodiscula theae-sinensis. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of the pathogens was determined according to Koch's postulates. This study thoroughly resolves the long-standing taxonomic and phylogenetic problems of the tea anthracnose pathogens.

Stenocarpella chrysopogonis, a New Species Causing Leaf Streak Disease of Chrysopogon zizanioides in Southern China

Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) has been widely used in recent years for ecological environment management, restoration of degraded ecosystems, and essential oil extraction. In 2019, a leaf streak disease of C. zizanioides was observed in Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, China. The disease appeared as large streak lesions on the leaves, on which conidiomata were formed. A pathogenicity test with the fungus isolated from these lesions confirmed Koch's postulates and thus the fungus as the causal agent of this disease. A morphological resemblance of the pathogen to Stenocarpella was noted upon microscopic examination. Phylogenetic trees inferred from both individual and combined ITS, LSU, and tef1 sequences confirmed the pathogen as a species of the Diaporthaceae and revealed it to be closely related to Phaeocytostroma and Stenocarpella species. As morphological characters clearly placed the pathogen in the genus Stenocarpella, it was described as S. chrysopogonis.

Diaporthe Species on Palms: Molecular Re-Assessment and Species Boundaries Delimitation in the D. arecae Species Complex

Due to cryptic diversification, phenotypic plasticity and host associations, multilocus phylogenetic analyses have become the most important tool in accurately identifying and circumscribing species in the Diaporthe genus. However, the application of the genealogical concordance criterion has often been overlooked, ultimately leading to an exponential increase in novel Diaporthe spp. Due to the large number of species, many lineages remain poorly understood under the so-called species complexes. For this reason, a robust delimitation of the species boundaries in Diaporthe is still an ongoing challenge. Therefore, the present study aimed to resolve the species boundaries of the Diaporthe arecae species complex (DASC) by implementing an integrative taxonomic approach. The Genealogical Phylogenetic Species Recognition (GCPSR) principle revealed incongruences between the individual gene genealogies. Moreover, the Poisson Tree Processes' (PTPs) coalescent-based species delimitation models identified three well-delimited subclades represented by the species D. arecae, D. chiangmaiensis and D. smilacicola. These results evidence that all species previously described in the D. arecae subclade are conspecific, which is coherent with the morphological indistinctiveness observed and the absence of reproductive isolation and barriers to gene flow. Thus, 52 Diaporthe spp. are reduced to synonymy under D. arecae. Recent population expansion and the possibility of incomplete lineage sorting suggested that the D. arecae subclade may be considered as ongoing evolving lineages under active divergence and speciation. Hence, the genetic diversity and intraspecific variability of D. arecae in the context of current global climate change and the role of D. arecae as a pathogen on palm trees and other hosts are also discussed. This study illustrates that species in Diaporthe are highly overestimated, and highlights the relevance of applying an integrative taxonomic approach to accurately circumscribe the species boundaries in the genus Diaporthe.

Four new endophytic species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) isolated from Cameroon

The genus Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) is a large group of fungi frequently reported as phytopathogens, with ubiquitous distribution across the globe. Diaporthe have traditionally been characterized by the morphology of their ana- and teleomorphic state, revealing a high degree of heterogeneity as soon as DNA sequencing was utilized across the different members of the group. Their relevance for biotechnology and agriculture attracts the attention of taxonomists and natural product chemists alike in context of plant protection and exploitation for their potential to produce bioactive secondary metabolites. While more than 1000 species are described to date, Africa, as a natural habitat, has so far been under-sampled. Several endophytic fungi belonging to Diaporthe were isolated from different plant hosts in Cameroon over the course of this study. Phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer region and intervening 5.8S nrRNA gene, and partial fragments of the calmodulin, beta-tubulin, histone and the translation elongation factor 1-α genes, demonstrated that these isolates represent four new species, i.e. D.brideliae, D.cameroonensis, D.pseudoanacardii and D.rauvolfiae. Moreover, the description of D.isoberliniae is here emended, now incorporating the morphology of beta and gamma conidia produced by two of our endophytic isolates, which had never been documented in previous records. Moreover, the paraphyletic nature of the genus is discussed and suggestions are made for future revision of the genus.

Characteristics and Pathogenicity of Discula theae-sinensis Isolated from Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis) and Interaction with Colletotrichum spp

Anthracnose is one of the primary diseases in tea plants that affect tea yield and quality. The geographical distribution, occurrence regularity, and agronomic measures of tea plants with anthracnose have been researched for decades. However, the pathogenic cause of anthracnose in tea plants is diverse in different regions of the world. Identifying the specific pathogenic fungi causing tea anthracnose is an essential control measure to mitigate this disease. In this study, 66 Discula theae-sinensis and 45 Colletotrichum isolates were obtained from three different types of diseased tea leaves. Based on multilocus phylogenetic and morphological analysis, eight known species of Colletotrichum, Colletotrichum fructicola, C. camelliae, C. aenigma, C. siamense, C. henanense, C. karstii, C. tropicicola, and C. gigasporum were identified. This study is the first to report C. tropicicola and C. gigasporum in tea plants in China. Discula theae-sinensis was the most common species in this study and caused disease lesions around wounded areas of tea leaves. The dual trials in vitro indicated Discula theae-sinensis and Colletotrichum were slightly inhibited. Co-inoculating Discula theae-sinensis and C. fructicola was superior to single inoculation at low concentrations. The main cause of anthracnose might be the concerted action of a variety of fungi.

Fossil history of fungus host-specificity: Association of conidia of fossil Asterosporium asterospermum with macro- and microremains of Fagus

Fossil staurosporous conidia almost identical to modern conidia of Asterosporium asterospermum were found from three Central European localities ranging from the Late Oligocene (Germany) to Middle/Late Miocene (Poland). Extant A. asterospermum is strictly host-specific and found only on branches or bark of various Fagus species from Europe, Asia and North America. Conspicuous association of conidia of A. asterospermum with numerous macro- and microremains of Fagus were reported from all the localities where fossil conidia of Asterosporium were found confirming the host-specificity of fossil A. asterospermum to ancient beeches. The host-specific relationship of A. asterospermum and beech was presumably established early in the history of the Fagus genus.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyzes reveal two new species of Melanconiella from Fujian Province, China

Introduction

Species of Melanconiella include a diverse array of plant pathogens as well as endophytic fungi. Members of this genus have been frequently collected from the family Betulaceae (birches) in Europe and North America. Little, however, if known concerning the distribution of Melanconiella and/or their potential as pathogens of other plant hosts.

Methods

Fungi were noted and isolated from diseased leaves of Loropetalum chinense (Chinese fringe flower) and Camellia sinensis (tea) in Fujian Province, China. Genomic DNA was extracted from fungal isolates and the nucleotide sequences of four loci were determined and sued to construct phylogenetic trees. Morphological characteristics of fungal structures were determined via microscopic analyses.

Results

Four strains and two new species of Melanconiella were isolated from infected leaves of L. chinense and C. sinensis in Fujian Province, China. Based on morphology and a multi-gene phylogeny of the internal transcribed spacer regions with the intervening 5.8S nrRNA gene (ITS), the 28S large subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA (LSU), the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2), and the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (TEF1-α), Melanconiellaloropetali sp. nov. and Melanconiellacamelliae sp. nov. were identified and described herein. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and a key to the known species of Melanconiella are provided.

Discussion

These data identify new species of Melanconiella, expanding the potential range and distribution of these dark septate fungi. The developed keys provide a reference source for further characterization of these fungi.

Two new fungal genera (Diaporthales) found on Dipterocarpaceae in Thailand

Diaporthales is a species-rich order of fungi that includes endophytes, saprobes, and pathogens associated with forest plants and crops. They may also occur as parasites or secondary invaders of plant tissues injured or infected by other organisms or inhabit living animal and human tissues, as well as soil. Meanwhile, some severe pathogens wipe out large-scale cultivations of profitable crops, timber monocultures, and forests. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data, generated using maximum likelihood (ML), maximum parsimony (MP), and MrBayes (BI), we introduce two new genera of Diaporthales found in Dipterocarpaceae in Thailand, namely Pulvinaticonidioma and Subellipsoidispora. Pulvinaticonidioma is characterized by solitary, subglobose, pycnidial, unilocular conidiomata with the internal layers convex and pulvinate at the base; hyaline, unbranched, septate conidiophores; hyaline, phialidic, cylindrical to ampulliform, determinate conidiogenous cells and hyaline, cylindrical, straight, unicellular, and aseptate conidia with obtuse ends. Subellipsoidispora has clavate to broadly fusoid, short pedicellate asci with an indistinct J- apical ring; biturbinate to subellipsoidal, hyaline to pale brown, smooth, guttulate ascospores that are 1-septate and slightly constricted at the septa. Detailed morphological and phylogenetic comparisons of these two new genera are provided in this study.

Additions to hyphomycetes from Yungui Plateau, China with three new species (Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes)

Background

Yungui Plateau is rich in fungal diversity. Hyphomycetes, growing on submerged wood, can promote the degradation of organisms and the reuse of rotten wood energy. During an investigation of hyphomycetes in this region, 19 species of dematiaceous hyphomycetes were collected in Yungui Plateau.

New information

Both morphological identification and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, tef1 and LSU sequences supported Coryneumsevenseptatis as a new species. Phaeoisariaguizhouensis and Pleurotheciumyunanensis were introduced, based on morphology. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species were detailed. Known species are listed with notes.

How Deep Can the Endophytic Mycobiome Go? A Case Study on Six Woody Species from the Brazilian Cerrado

Elucidating the complex relationship between plants and endophytic fungi is very important in order to understand the maintenance of biodiversity, equity, stability, and ecosystem functioning. However, knowledge about the diversity of endophytic fungi from species of the native Brazilian Cerrado biome is poorly documented and remains largely unknown. These gaps led us to characterize the diversity of Cerrado endophytic foliar fungi associated with six woody species (Caryocar brasiliense, Dalbergia miscolobium, Leptolobium dasycarpum, Qualea parviflora, Ouratea hexasperma, and Styrax ferrugineus). Additionally, we investigated the influence of host plant identities on the structure of fungal communities. Culture-dependent methods coupled with DNA metabarcoding were employed. Irrespective of the approach, the phylum Ascomycota and the classes Dothideomycetes and Sordariomycetes were dominant. Using the cultivation-dependent method, 114 isolates were recovered from all the host species and classified into more than 20 genera and 50 species. Over 50 of the isolates belonged to the genus Diaporthe, and were distributed into more than 20 species. Metabarcoding revealed the phyla Chytridiomycota, Glomeromycota, Monoblepharomycota, Mortierellomycota, Olpidiomycota, Rozellomycota, and Zoopagomycota. These groups are reported for the first time as components of the endophytic mycobiome of Cerrado plant species. In total, 400 genera were found in all host species. A unique leaf endophytic mycobiome was identified in each host species, which differed not only by the distribution of fungal species, but also by the abundance of shared species. These findings highlight the importance of the Brazilian Cerrado as a reservoir of microbial species, and emphasize how endophytic fungal communities are diversified and adapted.

Two new species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) in China

Species of Diaporthe have been reported as plant endophytes, pathogens and saprobes on a wide range of plant hosts. Strains of Diaporthe were isolated from leaf spots of Smilax glabra and dead culms of Xanthium strumarium in China, and identified based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses of combined internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and β-tubulin (tub2) loci. As a result, two new species named Diaporthe rizhaoensis and D. smilacicola are identified, described and illustrated in the present study.

The Potential Fungal Pathogens of Euonymus japonicus in Beijing, China

Euonymus japonicus tolerates the dry and frigid climate of Beijing, China, and effectively filters out particles during the winter. However, fungal infestation frequently causes extreme illness and can even lead to shrub death. In this study, 104 diseased E. japonicus specimens were collected from seven districts in Beijing. Seventy-nine isolates were identified as 22 fungal species in seven genera. The species were Aplosporella hesperidica, A. javeedii, A. prunicola, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Colletotrichum aenigma, Co. euonymi, Co. euonymicola, Co. gloeosporioides, Cytospora ailanthicola, C. albodisca, C. diopuiensis, C. discotoma, C. elaeagni, C. euonymicola, C. euonymina, C. haidianensis, C. leucostoma, C. sophorae, C. zhaitangensis, Diaporthe eres, Dothiorella acericola, and Pestalotiopsis chaoyangensis. On the basis of morphological and phylogenetic analyses, Colletotrichum euonymi, Co. euonymicola, Cytospora zhaitangensis, and Pestalotiopsis chaoyangensis were introduced as novel species. Colletotrichum euonymi, Co. euonymicola, and Pestalotiopsis chaoyangensis were subsequently confirmed as pathogens of E. japonicus leaves by pathogenicity testing. This study provides an important assessment of the fungi associated with diseases of E. japonicus in Beijing, China.

Taxonomic Advances from Fungal Flora Associated with Ferns and Fern-like Hosts in Northern Thailand

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.

Phaeotubakialithocarpicola gen. et sp. nov. (Tubakiaceae, Diaporthales) from leaf spots in China

Tubakiaceae represents a distinct lineage of Diaporthales, including its type genus Tubakia and nine additional known genera. Tubakiaceous species are commonly known as endophytes in leaves and twigs of many tree species, but can also be plant pathogens causing conspicuous leaf symptoms. In the present study, isolates were obtained from diseased leaves of Lithocarpusglaber collected in Guangdong Province, China. The identification was conducted based on morphology and phylogeny of combined loci of 28S nrRNA gene (LSU), internal transcribed spacer regions and intervening 5.8S nrRNA gene (ITS) of the nrDNA operon, translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and beta tubulin (tub2). As a result, a distinct clade in Tubakiaceae was revealed named Phaeotubakialithocarpicola gen. et sp. nov., which was distinguished from the other tubakiaceous taxa by its dark brown conidiogenous cells and conidia.

Cytospora paraplurivora sp. nov. isolated from orchards with fruit tree decline syndrome in Ontario, Canada

A new species of Cytospora was isolated from cankered wood of Prunus spp. during a survey of orchards exhibiting symptoms of fruit tree decline syndrome in southern Ontario, Canada. We found isolates that are morphologically similar to species in the Cytosporaceae family, which is characterized by single or labyrinthine locules, filamentous conidiophores or clavate to elongate obovoid asci and allantoid, hyaline conidia. Multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of ITS, LSU, act and tef1- α showed that the isolates form a distinct clade, sister to Cytospora plurivora. Morphologically, our isolates showed differences in the length of conidia and culture characteristics compared to C. plurivora, suggesting the establishment of a new species. The species is described as Cytospora paraplurivora sp. nov. and placed in the family Cytosporaceae of Diaporthales. Additionally, we sequenced, assembled and characterized the genome of the representative isolate for this new species. The phylogenomic analysis confirms the species order and family level classification. C. paraplurivora sp. nov. has the potential to severely affect stone fruits production, causing cankers and dieback in stressed trees, and eventually leads to tree decline. Pathogenicity tests show that the species is pathogenic to Prunus persica var. persica.

Taxonomy and Multigene Phylogeny of Diaporthales in Guizhou Province, China

In a study of fungi isolated from plant material in Guizhou Province, China, we identified 23 strains of Diaporthales belonging to nine species. These are identified from multigene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 gene sequence data coupled with morphological studies. The fungi include a new genus (Pseudomastigosporella) in Foliocryphiaceae isolated from Acer palmatum and Hypericum patulum, a new species of Chrysofolia isolated from Coriaria nepalensis, and five new species of Diaporthe isolated from Juglans regia, Eucommia ulmoides, and Hypericum patulum. Gnomoniopsis rosae and Coniella quercicola are newly recorded species for China.

Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Fungi Associated with Mangifera indica from Yunnan, China

During investigations of saprobic fungi associated with mango (Mangifera indica) in Baoshan and Honghe of Yunnan Province (China), fungal taxa belonging to the orders Botryosphaeriales, Calosphaeriales, Chaetothyriales, Diaporthales, and Xylariales were recorded. Morphological examinations coupled with phylogenetic analyses of multigene sequences (ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, rpb1, rpb2, β-tubulin and CAL) were used to identify the fungal taxa. A new genus viz. Mangifericola, four new species viz. Cyphellophora hongheensis, Diaporthe hongheensis, Hypoxylon hongheensis, and Mangifericola hongheensis, four new host and geographical records viz. Aplosporella artocarpi, Hypomontagnella monticulosa, Paraeutypella citricola and Pleurostoma ootheca, and two new collections of Lasiodiplodia are reported.

Multigene phylogeny, morphology, and pathogenicity trials reveal novel Cytospora species involved in perennial canker disease of apple trees in Iran

In recent years, canker and die-back diseases have become a growing threat for the productivity and longevity of apple orchards in Iran. In this study, 131 Cytospora isolates were recovered from symptomatic tissues of apple trees in apple orchards of Iran. Multigene phylogenetic inference based on combined sequence data of ITS, act, rpb2, and tef1-α loci, supplemented with morphological characteristics and pathogenicity assay revealed four novel Cytospora species which were described as C. avicennae, C. azerbaijanica, C. ershadii, and C. iranica, and four known species, namely C. chrysosperma, C. parasitica, C. paratranslucens, and C. sorbicola. Also, C. sorbicola is newly reported on apple trees worldwide. Koch's postulates were fulfilled to confirm that all eight species in this study were pathogenic on apple trees in Iran, among which C. sorbicola was the most intensive species. The results of this study further highlight rich diversity among Cytospora species occurring on apple trees, revealing several novel Cytospora species on this host. The host range, geographical distribution, and economic significance of novel species on apple industry remains to be studied.

Additions to The Knowledge of Tubakia (Tubakiaceae, Diaporthales) in China

The species of Tubakia (Tubakiaceae, Diaporthales, Sordariomycetes) have often been reported as endophytes and pathogens on woody plants. During the investigation of Tubakia species from Fagaceae trees in China, 46 isolates were obtained from diseased leaves and seeds. The characterization of these isolates was based on the observation of morphological characters, the effect of temperature on mycelial growth rate, as well as the combined genes of ITS, tef1 and tub2. As a result, six species were identified: Tubakia americana, T. cyclobalanopsidis sp. nov., T. dryinoides, T. koreana, T. paradryinoides and T. quercicola sp. nov. Among these, T. koreana and T. paradryinoides were firstly discovered in China. Pathogenicity tests were conducted using the conidial suspension on young, excised leaves for these six species, which showed that they were mildly pathogenic to four Fagacece hosts: C. mollissima, Q. acutissima, Q. aliena var. acutiserrata and Q. variabilis.

A new study of Nagrajomyces: with two new species proposed and taxonomic status inferred by phylogenetic methods

Nagrajomyces (incertae sedis, Ascomycota) is a monotypic genus with a previously unknown systematic position. In this report, two new species are proposed, Nagrajomycesfusiformis and Nagrajomyceslaojunshanensis. These new taxa are proposed based on morphological characteristics evident via light microscopy and molecular data. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (ITS rDNA, nrLSU rDNA, RPB2, and TEF1-α) show that specimens recently collected in Yunnan Province, China are closely related to Gnomoniaceae. Both new species and known species were discovered repeatedly in their asexual developmental form exclusively on twigs of Rhododendron spp. (Ericaceae). This indicates a host specificity of Nagrajomyces spp. for species of Rhododendron.

Effects of Temperature on Development of Canker-Causing Pathogens in Almond and Prune

Between 2000 and 2020, canker diseases of nut and stone fruit trees have become very widespread and severe in California. This study determined the effects of temperature on the development of canker-causing pathogens of almond and prune. Five pathogen taxa, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Cytospora leucostoma, Diaporthe (Phomopsis) neotheicola, Lasiodiplodia citricola, and Neofusicoccum mediterraneum, were used. Colony growth on medium and canker lesion development on detached shoots were measured at 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35°C. The effects of temperature on colony growth differed among different pathogen taxa, although 25°C was the optimal temperature for most of the pathogens tested. The patterns of lesion growth as response to temperature were different among the different pathogens and tree crops. On almond, the highest growth rates appeared at 30°C for B. dothidea and L. citricola, but at 20°C for N. mediterraneum. The growth rates for C. leucostoma were lower than those of the other three pathogen taxa, with the highest rates recorded at 25°C. However, on prune, C. leucostoma showed greater lesion growth rates at different temperatures than the other pathogen taxa and maximum growth at 30 to 35°C. Similar trends were observed for L. citricola. The growth rates of B. dothidea and N. mediterraneum were comparatively lower than those of C. leucostoma and L. citricola.

Endophytic Diaporthe Associated with Morinda officinalis in China

Diaporthe species are endophytes, pathogens, and saprobes with a wide host range worldwide. However, little is known about endophytic Diaporthe species associated with Morinda officinalis. In the present study, 48 endophytic Diaporthe isolates were obtained from cultivated M. officinalis in Deqing, Guangdong Province, China. The nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), partial sequences of translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α), partial calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his), and Beta-tubulin (β-tubulin) gene regions were sequenced and employed to construct phylogenetic trees. Based on morphology and combined multigene phylogeny, 12 Diaporthe species were identified, including five new species of Diaporthe longiconidialis, D. megabiguttulata, D. morindendophytica, D. morindae, and D. zhaoqingensis. This is the first report of Diaporthe chongqingensis, D. guangxiensis, D. heliconiae, D. siamensis, D. unshiuensis, and D. xishuangbanica on M. officinalis. This study provides the first intensive study of endophytic Diaporthe species on M. officinalis in China. These results will improve the current knowledge of Diaporthe species associated with this traditional medicinal plant. Furthermore, results from this study will help to understand the potential pathogens and biocontrol agents from M. officinalis and to develop a disease management platform.

Pseudocryphonectriaelaeocarpicola gen. et sp. nov. (Cryphonectriaceae, Diaporthales) causing stem blight of Elaeocarpus spp. in China

Cryphonectriaceae is a diaporthalean family containing important plant pathogens of which Cryphonectriaparasitica is the most notorious one. An emerging stem blight disease on Elaeocarpusapiculatus (Elaeocarpaceae) and E.hainanensis was observed in Guangdong Province of China recently. Typical Cryphonectria blight-like symptoms including cankers on tree barks with obvious orange conidial tendrils were observed. Forty-eight isolates were obtained from diseased tissues and conidiomata formed on the hosts E.apiculatus and E.hainanensis. These isolates were further identified based on both morphology and molecular methods using the combined sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, large subunit of the nrDNA (LSU), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and DNA-directed RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) genes. As a result, the fungus represents an undescribed genus and species within the family Cryphonectriaceae. Hence, Pseudocryphonectriaelaeocarpicola gen. et sp. nov. is proposed herein to represent these isolates from diseased barks of E.apiculatus and E.hainanensis. Pseudocryphonectria differs from the other genera of Cryphonectriaceae in having dimorphic conidia. Further inoculation results showed that P.elaeocarpicola is the causal agent of this emerging blight disease in China, which can quickly infect and kill the hosts E.apiculatus and E.hainanensis.

Diaporthe citri: A Fungal Pathogen Causing Melanose Disease

Citrus melanose is a fungal disease caused by Diaporthe citri F.A. Wolf. It is found in various citrus-growing locations across the world. The host range of D. citri is limited to plants of the Citrus genus. The most economically important hosts are Citrus reticulata (mandarin), C. sinensis (sweet orange), C. grandis or C. maxima (pumelo), and C. paradisi (grapefruit). In the life cycle of D. citri throughout the citrus growing season, pycnidia can be seen in abundance on dead branches, especially after rain, with conidia appearing as slimy masses discharged from the dead twigs. Raindrops can transmit conidia to leaves, twigs, and fruits, resulting in disease dispersion throughout small distances. Persistent rains and warm climatic conditions generally favor disease onset and development. The melanose disease causes a decline in fruit quality, which lowers the value of fruits during marketing and exportation. High rainfall areas should avoid planting susceptible varieties. In this article, information about the disease symptoms, history, geographic distribution, epidemiology, impact, and integrated management practices, as well as the pathogen morphology and identification, was reviewed and discussed.

Current Insight into Traditional and Modern Methods in Fungal Diversity Estimates

Fungi are an important and diverse component in various ecosystems. The methods to identify different fungi are an important step in any mycological study. Classical methods of fungal identification, which rely mainly on morphological characteristics and modern use of DNA based molecular techniques, have proven to be very helpful to explore their taxonomic identity. In the present compilation, we provide detailed information on estimates of fungi provided by different mycologistsover time. Along with this, a comprehensive analysis of the importance of classical and molecular methods is also presented. In orderto understand the utility of genus and species specific markers in fungal identification, a polyphasic approach to investigate various fungi is also presented in this paper. An account of the study of various fungi based on culture-based and cultureindependent methods is also provided here to understand the development and significance of both approaches. The available information on classical and modern methods compiled in this study revealed that the DNA based molecular studies are still scant, and more studies are required to achieve the accurate estimation of fungi present on earth.

Predicting global numbers of teleomorphic ascomycetes

Sexual reproduction is the basic way to form high genetic diversity and it is beneficial in evolution and speciation of fungi. The global diversity of teleomorphic species in Ascomycota has not been estimated. This paper estimates the species number for sexual ascomycetes based on five different estimation approaches, viz. by numbers of described fungi, by fungus:substrate ratio, by ecological distribution, by meta-DNA barcoding or culture-independent studies and by previous estimates of species in Ascomycota. The assumptions were made with the currently most accepted, “2.2–3.8 million” species estimate and results of previous studies concluding that 90% of the described ascomycetes reproduce sexually. The Catalogue of Life, Species Fungorum and published research were used for data procurement. The average value of teleomorphic species in Ascomycota from all methods is 1.86 million, ranging from 1.37 to 2.56 million. However, only around 83,000 teleomorphic species have been described in Ascomycota and deposited in data repositories. The ratio between described teleomorphic ascomycetes to predicted teleomorphic ascomycetes is 1:22. Therefore, where are the undiscovered teleomorphic ascomycetes? The undescribed species are no doubt to be found in biodiversity hot spots, poorly-studied areas and species complexes. Other poorly studied niches include extremophiles, lichenicolous fungi, human pathogens, marine fungi, and fungicolous fungi. Undescribed species are present in unexamined collections in specimen repositories or incompletely described earlier species. Nomenclatural issues, such as the use of separate names for teleomorph and anamorphs, synonyms, conspecific names, illegitimate and invalid names also affect the number of described species. Interspecies introgression results in new species, while species numbers are reduced by extinctions.

Draft Genome Sequence of Diaporthe batatatis Causing Dry Rot Disease in Sweetpotato

Dry rot caused by Diaporthe batatatis leads to the serious decay of sweetpotato storage roots during postharvest storage, which can result in considerable economic loss. Genomic research of the pathogen could provide a basis for study and prevention of sweetpotato dry rot. Herein, we report a high-quality draft genome sequence of D. batatatis CRI 302-4 isolated from infected sweetpotato storage roots in Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. The size of the genome was 54.38 Mb and consisted of 36 scaffolds with a G+C content of 50.56% and an N₅₀ of 2,950,914 bp. The information provided in this genome sequence will be an invaluable resource for molecular genetic research and disease control in sweetpotato production.

Fungal diversity notes 1512-1610: taxonomic and phylogenetic contributions on genera and species of fungal taxa

This article is the 14th in the Fungal Diversity Notes series, wherein we report 98 taxa distributed in two phyla, seven classes, 26 orders and 50 families which are described and illustrated. Taxa in this study were collected from Australia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Chile, China, Cyprus, Egypt, France, French Guiana, India, Indonesia, Italy, Laos, Mexico, Russia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. There are 59 new taxa, 39 new hosts and new geographical distributions with one new combination. The 59 new species comprise Angustimassarina kunmingense, Asterina lopi, Asterina brigadeirensis, Bartalinia bidenticola, Bartalinia caryotae, Buellia pruinocalcarea, Coltricia insularis, Colletotrichum flexuosum, Colletotrichum thasutense, Coniochaeta caraganae, Coniothyrium yuccicola, Dematipyriforma aquatic, Dematipyriforma globispora, Dematipyriforma nilotica, Distoseptispora bambusicola, Fulvifomes jawadhuvensis, Fulvifomes malaiyanurensis, Fulvifomes thiruvannamalaiensis, Fusarium purpurea, Gerronema atrovirens, Gerronema flavum, Gerronema keralense, Gerronema kuruvense, Grammothele taiwanensis, Hongkongmyces changchunensis, Hypoxylon inaequale, Kirschsteiniothelia acutisporum, Kirschsteiniothelia crustaceum, Kirschsteiniothelia extensum, Kirschsteiniothelia septemseptatum, Kirschsteiniothelia spatiosum, Lecanora immersocalcarea, Lepiota subthailandica, Lindgomyces guizhouensis, Marthe asmius pallidoaurantiacus, Marasmius tangerinus, Neovaginatispora mangiferae, Pararamichloridium aquisubtropicum, Pestalotiopsis piraubensis, Phacidium chinaum, Phaeoisaria goiasensis, Phaeoseptum thailandicum, Pleurothecium aquisubtropicum, Pseudocercospora vernoniae, Pyrenophora verruculosa, Rhachomyces cruralis, Rhachomyces hyperommae, Rhachomyces magrinii, Rhachomyces platyprosophi, Rhizomarasmius cunninghamietorum, Skeletocutis cangshanensis, Skeletocutis subchrysella, Sporisorium anadelphiae-leptocomae, Tetraploa dashaoensis, Tomentella exiguelata, Tomentella fuscoaraneosa, Tricholomopsis lechatii, Vaginatispora flavispora and Wetmoreana blastidiocalcarea. The new combination is Torula sundara. The 39 new records on hosts and geographical distribution comprise Apiospora guiyangensis, Aplosporella artocarpi, Ascochyta medicaginicola, Astrocystis bambusicola, Athelia rolfsii, Bambusicola bambusae, Bipolaris luttrellii, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Chlorophyllum squamulosum, Colletotrichum aeschynomenes, Colletotrichum pandanicola, Coprinopsis cinerea, Corylicola italica, Curvularia alcornii, Curvularia senegalensis, Diaporthe foeniculina, Diaporthe longicolla, Diaporthe phaseolorum, Diatrypella quercina, Fusarium brachygibbosum, Helicoma aquaticum, Lepiota metulispora, Lepiota pongduadensis, Lepiota subvenenata, Melanconiella meridionalis, Monotosporella erecta, Nodulosphaeria digitalis, Palmiascoma gregariascomum, Periconia byssoides, Periconia cortaderiae, Pleopunctum ellipsoideum, Psilocybe keralensis, Scedosporium apiospermum, Scedosporium dehoogii, Scedosporium marina, Spegazzinia deightonii, Torula fici, Wiesneriomyces laurinus and Xylaria venosula. All these taxa are supported by morphological and multigene phylogenetic analyses. This article allows the researchers to publish fungal collections which are important for future studies. An updated, accurate and timely report of fungus-host and fungus-geography is important. We also provide an updated list of fungal taxa published in the previous fungal diversity notes. In this list, erroneous taxa and synonyms are marked and corrected accordingly.

Two new species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) associated with tree cankers in the Netherlands

Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) is a common fungal genus inhabiting plant tissues as endophytes, pathogens and saprobes. Some species are reported from tree branches associated with canker diseases. In the present study, Diaporthe samples were collected from Alnusglutinosa, Fraxinusexcelsior and Quercusrobur in Utrecht, the Netherlands. They were identified to species based on a polyphasic approach including morphology, pure culture characters, and phylogenetic analyses of a combined matrix of partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1 and tub2 gene regions. As a result, four species (viz. Diaporthepseudoalnea sp. nov. from Alnusglutinosa, Diaporthesilvicola sp. nov. from Fraxinusexcelsior, D.foeniculacea and D.rudis from Quercusrobur) were revealed from tree branches in the Netherlands. Diaporthepseudoalnea differs from D.eres (syn. D.alnea) by its longer conidiophores. Diaporthesilvicola is distinguished from D.fraxinicola and D.fraxini-angustifoliae by larger alpha conidia.

Fungal diversity notes 1387-1511: taxonomic and phylogenetic contributions on genera and species of fungal taxa

This article is the 13th contribution in the Fungal Diversity Notes series, wherein 125 taxa from four phyla, ten classes, 31 orders, 69 families, 92 genera and three genera incertae sedis are treated, demonstrating worldwide and geographic distribution. Fungal taxa described and illustrated in the present study include three new genera, 69 new species, one new combination, one reference specimen and 51 new records on new hosts and new geographical distributions. Three new genera, Cylindrotorula (Torulaceae), Scolecoleotia (Leotiales genus incertae sedis) and Xenovaginatispora (Lindomycetaceae) are introduced based on distinct phylogenetic lineages and unique morphologies. Newly described species are Aspergillus lannaensis, Cercophora dulciaquae, Cladophialophora aquatica, Coprinellus punjabensis, Cortinarius alutarius, C. mammillatus, C. quercoflocculosus, Coryneum fagi, Cruentomycena uttarakhandina, Cryptocoryneum rosae, Cyathus uniperidiolus, Cylindrotorula indica, Diaporthe chamaeropicola, Didymella azollae, Diplodia alanphillipsii, Dothiora coronicola, Efibula rodriguezarmasiae, Erysiphe salicicola, Fusarium queenslandicum, Geastrum gorgonicum, G. hansagiense, Helicosporium sexualis, Helminthosporium chiangraiensis, Hongkongmyces kokensis, Hydrophilomyces hydraenae, Hygrocybe boertmannii, Hyphoderma australosetigerum, Hyphodontia yunnanensis, Khaleijomyces umikazeana, Laboulbenia divisa, Laboulbenia triarthronis, Laccaria populina, Lactarius pallidozonarius, Lepidosphaeria strobelii, Longipedicellata megafusiformis, Lophiotrema lincangensis, Marasmius benghalensis, M. jinfoshanensis, M. subtropicus, Mariannaea camelliae, Melanographium smilaxii, Microbotryum polycnemoides, Mimeomyces digitatus, Minutisphaera thailandensis, Mortierella solitaria, Mucor harpali, Nigrograna jinghongensis, Odontia huanrenensis, O. parvispina, Paraconiothyrium ajrekarii, Parafuscosporella niloticus, Phaeocytostroma yomensis, Phaeoisaria synnematicus, Phanerochaete hainanensis, Pleopunctum thailandicum, Pleurotheciella dimorphospora, Pseudochaetosphaeronema chiangraiense, Pseudodactylaria albicolonia, Rhexoacrodictys nigrospora, Russula paravioleipes, Scolecoleotia eriocamporesi, Seriascoma honghense, Synandromyces makranczyi, Thyridaria aureobrunnea, Torula lancangjiangensis, Tubeufia longihelicospora, Wicklowia fusiformispora, Xenovaginatispora phichaiensis and Xylaria apiospora. One new combination, Pseudobactrodesmium stilboideus is proposed. A reference specimen of Comoclathris permunda is designated. New host or distribution records are provided for Acrocalymma fici, Aliquandostipite khaoyaiensis, Camarosporidiella laburni, Canalisporium caribense, Chaetoscutula juniperi, Chlorophyllum demangei, C. globosum, C. hortense, Cladophialophora abundans, Dendryphion hydei, Diaporthe foeniculina, D. pseudophoenicicola, D. pyracanthae, Dictyosporium pandanicola, Dyfrolomyces distoseptatus, Ernakulamia tanakae, Eutypa flavovirens, E. lata, Favolus septatus, Fusarium atrovinosum, F. clavum, Helicosporium luteosporum, Hermatomyces nabanheensis, Hermatomyces sphaericoides, Longipedicellata aquatica, Lophiostoma caudata, L. clematidis-vitalbae, Lophiotrema hydei, L. neoarundinaria, Marasmiellus palmivorus, Megacapitula villosa, Micropsalliota globocystis, M. gracilis, Montagnula thailandica, Neohelicosporium irregulare, N. parisporum, Paradictyoarthrinium diffractum, Phaeoisaria aquatica, Poaceascoma taiwanense, Saproamanita manicata, Spegazzinia camelliae, Submersispora variabilis, Thyronectria caudata, T. mackenziei, Tubeufia chiangmaiensis, T. roseohelicospora, Vaginatispora nypae, Wicklowia submersa, Xanthagaricus necopinatus and Xylaria haemorrhoidalis. The data presented herein are based on morphological examination of fresh specimens, coupled with analysis of phylogenetic sequence data to better integrate taxa into appropriate taxonomic ranks and infer their evolutionary relationships.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal a new genus and two new species of Tubakiaceae from China

Species of Tubakiaceae have often been reported as plant pathogens or endophytes, commonly isolated from a wide range of plant hosts. The isolated fungi were studied through a complete examination, based on multilocus phylogenies from combined datasets of ITS/LSU/rpb2 and ITS/tef1/tub2, in conjunction with morphological characteristics. Five strains isolated from Lithocarpusfohaiensis and Quercuspalustris in China represented a new genus of Tubakiaceae, Obovoideisporodochium and three species, viz. Obovoideisporodochiumlithocarpi sp. nov., Tubakialushanensis sp. nov. and T.dryinoides.

Limited Evidence for Accumulation of Latent Infections of Canker-Causing Pathogens in Shoots of Stone Fruit and Nut Crops in California

Prevalence of latent infections of the canker-causing fungi Botryosphaeria dothidea and species of Cytospora, Diplodia, Lasiodiplodia, Neofusicoccum, and Phomopsis in young shoots of almond, prune, and walnut trees in California was studied to test the hypotheses that latent infections accumulate from current-season shoots to 1-year-old shoots in the orchard and there are distinct associations among pathogen taxa present as latent infections in the same shoot. Samples of newly emerged and 1-year-old shoots were periodically collected in each almond, prune, and walnut orchard for two growing seasons. A real-time quantitative PCR assay was used to quantify latent infection with three parameters: incidence, molecular severity, and latent infection index. Diplodia spp. were absent from most samples. For almond, Lasiodiplodia spp. and Cytospora spp. were detected with a maximum incidence >90%, while B. dothidea and Neofusicoccum spp. incidence was <20% in most cases. In prune orchards, the incidence levels of B. dothidea were >50% in most cases, while those of Cytospora spp. and Lasiodiplodia spp. were 30 to 60% and 30 to 100%, respectively. For walnut, many samplings showed higher incidence in 1-year-old (30 to 80%) than in newly emerged shoots (10 to 50%). Accumulation of latent infection between the two shoot age classes was detected in only a few cases. The percentages of samples showing coexistence of two, three, and four pathogen taxa in the same shoot were 20 to 25, <10, and <5%, respectively. Pairwise associations among pathogen taxa in the same shoot were significant in many cases.

Discovery of Three Novel Cytospora Species in Thailand and Their Antagonistic Potential

During an ongoing research survey of saprobic fungi in Thailand, four coelomycetous strains were isolated from decaying leaves in Chiang Mai and Phitsanulok Provinces. Morphological characteristics demonstrated that these taxa are typical of Cytospora in forming multi-loculate, entostromatic conidiomata, branched or unbranched conidiophores, with enteroblastic, phialidic conidiogenous cells and hyaline, allantoid, aseptate conidia. Multiloci phylogeny of ITS, LSU, ACT, RPB2, TEF1-α and TUB2 confirmed these taxa are distinct new species in Cytospora in Cytosporaceae (Diaporthales, Sordariomycetes), viz., Cytospora chiangmaiensis, C. phitsanulokensis and C. shoreae. Cytospora chiangmaiensis has a close phylogenetic relationship with C. shoreae, while C. phitsanulokensis is sister to C. acaciae. These three novel species were also preliminary screened for their antagonistic activity against five plant pathogenic fungi: Colletotrichumfructicola, Co. siamense, Co. artocarpicola, Co. viniferum and Fusarium sambucinum. Cytospora shoreae and C. phitsanulokensis showed >60% inhibition against Co. viniferum and F. sambucinum, while C. chiangmaiensis had moderate inhibition activity against all pathogens.

Morphology and Phylogeny of Gnomoniopsis (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) from Fagaceae Leaves in China

Gnomoniopsis (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) is a well-classified genus inhabiting leaves, branches and fruits of the hosts in three plant families, namely Fagaceae, Onagraceae and Rosaceae. In the present study, eighteen Gnomoniopsis isolates were obtained from diseased leaves of Fagaceae hosts collected from Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan, Henan, Jiangxi and Shaanxi provinces in China. Morphology from the cultures and phylogeny based on the 5.8S nuclear ribosomal DNA gene with the two flanking internally transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and the beta-tubulin (tub2) genes were employed to identify these isolates. As a result, seven species were revealed, viz. Gnomoniopsis castanopsidis, G. fagacearum, G. guangdongensis, G. hainanensis, G. rossmaniae and G. silvicola spp. nov, as well as a known species G. daii. In addition, G. daii was firstly reported on the host Quercus aliena.

Molecular Phylogenetic Diversity and Biological Characterization of Diaporthe Species Associated with Leaf Spots of Camellia sinensis in Taiwan

Camellia sinensis is one of the major crops grown in Taiwan and has been widely cultivated around the island. Tea leaves are prone to various fungal infections, and leaf spot is considered one of the major diseases in Taiwan tea fields. As part of a survey on fungal species causing leaf spots on tea leaves in Taiwan, 19 fungal strains morphologically similar to the genus Diaporthe were collected. ITS (internal transcribed spacer), tef1-α (translation elongation factor 1-α), tub2 (beta-tubulin), and cal (calmodulin) gene regions were used to construct phylogenetic trees and determine the evolutionary relationships among the collected strains. In total, six Diaporthe species, including one new species, Diaporthe hsinchuensis, were identified as linked with leaf spot of C. sinensis in Taiwan based on both phenotypic characters and phylogeny. These species were further characterized in terms of their pathogenicity, temperature, and pH requirements under laboratory conditions. Diaporthe tulliensis, D. passiflorae, and D. perseae were isolated from C. sinensis for the first time. Furthermore, pathogenicity tests revealed that, with wound inoculation, only D. hongkongensis was pathogenic on tea leaves. This investigation delivers the first assessment of Diaporthe taxa related to leaf spots on tea in Taiwan.

Molecular reassessment of diaporthalean fungi associated with strawberry, including the leaf blight fungus, Paraphomopsis obscurans gen. et comb. nov. (Melanconiellaceae)

Phytopathogenic fungi in the order Diaporthales (Sordariomycetes) cause diseases on numerous economically important crops worldwide. In this study, we reassessed the diaporthalean species associated with prominent diseases of strawberry, namely leaf blight, leaf blotch, root rot and petiole blight, based on molecular data and morphological characters using fresh and herbarium collections. Combined analyses of four nuclear loci, 28S ribosomal DNA/large subunit rDNA (LSU), ribosomal internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 with 5.8S ribosomal DNA (ITS), partial sequences of second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2) and translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1), were used to reconstruct a phylogeny for these pathogens. Results confirmed that the leaf blight pathogen formerly known as Phomopsis obscurans belongs in the family Melanconiellaceae and not with Diaporthe (syn. Phomopsis) or any other known genus in the order. A new genus Paraphomopsis is introduced herein with a new combination, Paraphomopsis obscurans, to accommodate the leaf blight fungus. Gnomoniopsis fragariae comb. nov. (Gnomoniaceae), is introduced to accommodate Gnomoniopsis fructicola, the cause of leaf blotch of strawberry. Both of the fungi causing leaf blight and leaf blotch were epitypified. Fresh collections and new molecular data were incorporated for Paragnomonia fragariae (Sydowiellaceae), which causes petiole blight and root rot of strawberry and is distinct from the above taxa. An updated multilocus phylogeny for the Diaporthales is provided with representatives of currently known families.

Micromelanconis kaihuiae gen. et sp. nov., a new diaporthalean fungus from Chinese chestnut branches in southern China

Melanconis-like fungi are distributed in several families of Diaporthales, mainly Juglanconidaceae, Melanconidaceae, Melanconiellaceae and Pseudomelanconidaceae. A new Melanconis-like genus of Pseudomelanconidaceae was discovered on branches of Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) in southern China, which was confirmed by both morphology and phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, tef1a and rpb2 sequences. The new genus Micromelanconis is characterized by two types of conidia from natural substrate and manual media of PDA, respectively. Conidia from Chinese chestnut branches are pale brown, ellipsoid, multiguttulate, aseptate with hyaline sheath. While conidia from PDA plates are pale brown, long dumbbell-shaped, narrow at the middle and wide at both ends, multiguttulate, aseptate, and also with hyaline sheath. All Pseudomelanconidaceae species were only reported on tree branches in China until now. More interesting taxa may be discovered if detailed surveys on tree-inhabiting fungi are carried out in East Asia in the future.

Phylogenetic and Haplotype Network Analyses of Diaporthe eres Species in China Based on Sequences of Multiple Loci

Diaporthe eres is considered one of the most important causal agents of many plant diseases, with a broad host range worldwide. In this study, multiple sequences of ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-α gene (EF1-α), beta-tubulin gene (TUB2), calmodulin gene (CAL), and histone-3 gene (HIS) were used for multi-locus phylogenetic analysis. For phylogenetic analysis, maximum likelihood (ML), maximum parsimony (MP), and Bayesian inferred (BI) approaches were performed to investigate relationships of D. eres with closely related species. The results strongly support that the D. eres species falls into a monophyletic lineage, with the characteristics of a species complex. Phylogenetic informativeness (PI) analysis showed that clear boundaries could be proposed by using EF1-α, whereas ITS showed an ineffective reconstruction and, thus, was unsuitable for speciating boundaries for Diaporthe species. A combined dataset of EF1-α, CAL, TUB2, and HIS showed strong resolution for Diaporthe species, providing insights for the D. eres complex. Accordingly, besides D. biguttusis, D. camptothecicola, D. castaneae-mollissimae, D. cotoneastri, D. ellipicola, D. longicicola, D. mahothocarpus, D. momicola, D. nobilis, and Phomopsis fukushii, which have already been previously considered the synonymous species of D. eres, another three species, D. henanensis, D. lonicerae and D. rosicola, were further revealed to be synonyms of D. eres in this study. In order to demonstrate the genetic diversity of D. eres species in China, 138 D. eres isolates were randomly selected from previous studies in 16 provinces. These isolates were obtained from different major plant species from 2006 to 2020. The genetic distance was estimated with phylogenetic analysis and haplotype networks, and it was revealed that two major haplotypes existed in the Chinese populations of D. eres. The haplotype networks were widely dispersed and not uniquely correlated to specific populations. Overall, our analyses evaluated the phylogenetic identification for D. eres species and demonstrated the population diversity of D. eres in China.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species of Diaporthe from Yunnan, China

Species of Diaporthe have often been reported as plant pathogens, endophytes or saprobes, commonly isolated from a wide range of plant hosts. Sixteen strains isolated from species of ten host genera in Yunnan Province, China, represented three new species of Diaporthe, D. chrysalidocarpi, D. machili and D. pometiae as well as five known species D. arecae, D. hongkongensis, D. middletonii, D. osmanthi and D. pandanicola. Morphological comparisons with known species and DNA-based phylogenies based on the analysis of a multigene (ITS, TUB, TEF, CAL and HIS) dataset support the establishment of the new species. This study reveals that a high species diversity of Diaporthe with wide host ranges occur in tropical rainforest in Yunnan Province, China.

Endophytic Diaporthe Associated With Citrus grandis cv. Tomentosa in China

Diaporthe species are associated with Citrus as endophytes, pathogens, and saprobes worldwide. However, little is known about Diaporthe as endophytes in Citrus grandis in China. In this study, 24 endophytic Diaporthe isolates were obtained from cultivated C. grandis cv. "Tomentosa" in Huazhou, Guangdong Province in 2019. The nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), partial sequences of translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1), β-tubulin (tub2), and partial calmodulin (cal) gene regions were sequenced and employed to construct phylogenetic trees. Based on morphology and combined multigene phylogeny, eleven Diaporthe species were identified including two new species, Diaporthe endocitricola and D. guangdongensis. These are the first report of D. apiculata, D. aquatica, D. arecae, D. biconispora, D. limonicola, D. masirevicii, D. passifloricola, D. perseae, and D. sennae on C. grandis. This study provides the first intensive study of endophytic Diaporthe species on C. grandis cv. tomentosa in China. These results will improve the current knowledge of Diaporthe species associated with C. grandis. The results obtained in this study will also help to understand the potential pathogens and biocontrol agents and to develop a platform in disease management.

Identification and Characterization of Leaf-Inhabiting Fungi from Castanea Plantations in China

Two Castanea plant species, C. henryi and C. mollissima, are cultivated in China to produce chestnut crops. Leaf spot diseases commonly occur in Castanea plantations, however, little is known about the fungal species associated with chestnut leaf spots. In this study, leaf samples of C. henryi and C. mollissima were collected from Beijing, Guizhou, Hunan, Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces, and leaf-inhabiting fungi were identified based on morphology and phylogeny. As a result, twenty-six fungal species were confirmed, including one new family, one new genus, and five new species. The new taxa are Pyrisporaceae fam. nov., Pyrispora gen. nov., Aureobasidium castaneae sp. nov., Discosia castaneae sp. nov., Monochaetia castaneae sp. nov., Neopestalotiopsis sichuanensis sp. nov. and Pyrispora castaneae sp. nov.