(Photo credits: Fabiola Lucini, Filipe de Carvalho Victoria).
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 Helotiales sp. UNIPAMPA011 is part of a study aiming at sequencing 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.
Helotiales sp. UNIPAMPA011 , a fungus
from Antarctica
Taxa belonging to the order Helotiales were cited in different
regions of Antarctica, including psychrotolerant species,
associated with the Antarctic soil of King George Island. The order
Helotiales (Ascomycota), commonly found in bryophytes from
Antarctica, can also be found frequently on the roots of Antarctic
Hairgrass (Deschampsia antarctica). Some fungal taxa
belonging to the order Helotiales, isolated from Antarctica, are
characterized by their competitive capacity, gene expression,
stress tolerance and enzyme production. The isolate UNIPAMPA011 of
Helotiales sp. has been isolated from healthy leaves of the
Antarctic Hairgrass, 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Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI (Dr.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).
