Mature Nidularia sp. with exposed peridioles and partial peridium on decorticated hardwood log (species identification has not been confirmed). The photo was taken by Bill Sheehan on September 10, 2017 in Tallassee Highlands, Georgia, USA

In the "1KFG: Deep Sequencing of Ecologically-relevant Dikarya" project (CSP1974), we are sequencing keystone lineages of plant-interacting fungi and saprophytic fungi that are of special ecological importance for understanding terrestrial ecosystems. In addition, comparative genome analysis with saprotrophic, mycorrhizal and pathogenic fungi will provide new insights into the specific and conserved adaptations associated with each fungal lifestyle.

Nidularia deformis is a bird's nest fungus in the family Nidulariaceae (Agaricales, Agaricomycetes). All bird's nest fungi are saprotrophic and grow on decaying wood. They have the ability to degrade lignin and are thus considered white rot fungi (Wicklow et al. 1984). Phylogenetically, the genus Nidularia is closely related to Nidula despite significant morphological differences (Kraisitudomsook et al. 2021). Similar to Mycocalia and Retiperidiolia species, members of Nidularia have globose brown peridia (an outer covering of the fruiting body) that degrade at maturity, exposing the smooth black peridioles (egg-like spore cases which contain the basidiospores and basidia). Nidularia species lack funiculi (specialized cords that attach the peridioles to the peridium) that are found in some other bird's nest fungi (Brodie 1975). Nidularia species are found in mesic habitats and temperate climates. Because of their small fruiting bodies (less than 10 mm in diameter), Nidularia deformis and other similar taxa are easily overlooked and rarely collected.

The genome of Nidularia deformis is important for understanding the development of diverse fruiting body morphologies within the Basidiomycota and in understanding the unique development of peridioles (the 'eggs' in the bird's nest fungi). Like other bird's nest fungi, Nidularia deformis is a dynamic saprotroph that grows on a wide array of woody materials and the peridioles are able to withstand extreme environmental perturbations (including drying, freezing, heating and exposure to UV light). The genome of this fungus is important to better understand the biology of this group of fungi and how they can be harnessed for biotechnology.

Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI and JGI to avoid potential conflicts on data use and coordinate other publications with the CSP master paper(s).