Hirsutella rhossiliensis 206A_T18_1 growing in the lab.
Image Credit: Kathryn Bushley

Within the framework of JGI "Community Sequencing Project: Defensive Mutualism of Fungal Root Endophytes of Soybean" CSP project, we are investigating the potential role of fungal endophytes isolated from soybean roots in protecting the plant from two devastating root plant pathogens: 1) the root rot fungus causing Soybean Sudden Death Syndrome (Fusarium virguliforme) and 2) the soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines). These fungi were screened for either anti-fungal or anti-nematode activity in vitro and genome, transcriptome, and metabolome sequencing will address possible mechanisms of antagonism against these pathogens.

Hirsutella rhossiliensis is a parasite of juvenile nematodes and an important biocontrol agent in farms.