In the “1KFG: Deep Sequencing of Ecologically-relevant Dikarya” project (CSP1974), we aim to sequence additional sampling of genomic diversity within keystone lineages of plant-interacting fungi and saprophytic fungi that are of special ecological importance for understanding terrestrial ecosystems.
The sequencing of Antarctomyces sp. is part of a study aiming to sequence the genomes of numerous phylogenetically diverse endophytic fungi for further comparative genome analysis. Unravelling the genomic signatures reflecting the adaptation of these microbes to the host cell environment represent a promising way to better understand how the endophytic lifestyle evolved in phylogenetically unrelated fungal species. Comparative genome analysis between different plant hosts, and between saprotrophic, mycorrhizal, and pathogenic fungi will provide new insights into the specific adaptations but also the conserved signatures associated with these different lifestyles.
Antarctomyces sp., a fungus
from Antarctica
The genus Antarctomyces (Ascomycota, Thelebolales) has
only two species reported to be endemic and/or highly adapted to
environments of Antarctica, Antarctomyces psychrotrophicus
and Antarctomyces pellizariae. This genus is considered
psychrophilic and has been isolated from Antarctic soil and snow.
Antarctomyces psychrotrophicus has been recovered from
different substrates as a symbiotic endophyte of the Antarctic
grass Deschampsia antarctica, in association with
macroalgae and mosses. The isolate UNIPAMPA016 of
Antarctomyces sp. has been isolated from healthy leaves of
the Antarctic hair grass, one of two flowering plants native to
Antarctica and the southernmost flowering plant.
Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI (Dr. Francis Martin) and JGI to avoid potential conflicts on data use and coordinate other publications with the CSP master paper(s).