Xenasmatella tulasnelloidea growing on a birch branch in Helsinki, Finland (collection Otto Miettinen 20453, 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.

Xenasmatella tulasnelloidea OMC 1662

Xenasmatella tulasnelloidea forms corticioid, greyish fruiting bodies on dead wood. As the name suggest, they resemble some thick Tulasnella species, having a bit bluish tint. It is widely distributed and common in temperate areas of Europe and North America but absent from the northernmost parts. The hosts are usually deciduous trees, but also conifers have been reported (Hjorstam et al., Ginns & Lefebvre 1993).

Based on field observations, Xenasmatella tulasnelloidea is apparently a white-rot fungus. Although this species has been studied in the lab (Nakasone 1990), the type of rot hasn't been confirmed. Many species of Xenasmatella, such as the genome sequenced species Xenasmatella vaga, appear to be soil-inhabiting. Xenasmatella tulasnelloidea, which doesn't produce rhizomorphs, looks like a conventional wood-rotter.

Xenasmatella, also known as Phlebiella, has an isolated position within the Agaricomycetes. Larsson (2007) considered it at least worthy of its own family, though he did not formally describe one. Now that genomes for two species of this genus have been produced, its phylogenetic position may hopefully be solved. Being an isolated linage of white-rotters, the genomes will be important in evolutionary studies of fungal decomposition of wood.

Researchers who wish to publish analyses using data from unpublished CSP genomes are respectfully required to contact the PI and JGI to avoid potential conflicts on data use and coordinate other publications with the CSP master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