Serpulomyces borealis fruiting body in situ (collection Otto Miettinen 21230, origin of the genome strain) [Photo credit: Otto Miettinen]

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. 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.

Serpulomyces borealis OMC1750

Described from Northern Sweden, this basidiomycete forms corticioid fruiting bodies, and is widespread in conifer forests of northernmost Europe (Eriksson and Ryvarden 1973) and North America (Ginns and Lefebvre 1993). The type of rot of Serpulomyces borealis is unclear. In the literature it has been described variably as a white- or brown-rot fungus (Nakasone 1990). In North Europe it seems to be associated with brown-rot wood, mostly in advanced stages of decay. The fruiting bodies are pellicular and associated with rhizomorphs, characters typically associated with soil-inhabiting corticioids. It may be that this species also resides in the soil, consuming dead wood fragments.

The species is of interest in understanding evolution and mechanism of wood rot in the order Amylocorticiales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota), which includes an independently evolved brown-rot lineage and their white-rot relatives. The genome was sequenced from a polysporic culture originating from a fruiting body that grew on a decayed spruce trunk in a mesic, boreal old-growth spruce in Pyhä-Häkki National Park, central Finland.

Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI and JGI to avoid potential conflicts on data use and coordinate other publications with the CSP master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