Your Weekly Dose of Mycology Research
This study examines the mycorrhizal associations of the introduced orchid Epipactis helleborine on Vancouver Island. Notably, the orchid associates with a broad diversity of Ascomycota, including Wilcoxina and a novel connection with Rhexocercosporidium. These findings suggest adaptability in fungal partnerships, likely facilitating the orchid's geographical spread.
This study introduces two novel species within Cortinarius subgen. Telamonia sect. Firmiores: Cortinarius curiosus and C. ferrugineochraceus, identified via phylogenetic and morphological analyses. Notably, C. curiosus joins the /Alboviolacei clade, while C. ferrugineochraceus forms a distinct lineage in the /Turgidoides clade, offering insights into their ecological associations and morphological distinctions.
Bauxite residue, a by-product of alumina production, poses environmental challenges due to alkalinity. This study reveals that Aspergillus tubingensis, in combination with amendments like gypsum and sewage sludge, effectively reduces pH and enhances soil fertility. The result is increased Bermuda grass growth, highlighting a sustainable approach to rehabilitating bauxite-contaminated sites.
Airborne fungal spores, impacting health, require precise monitoring. This study outlines best practices for creating reference datasets crucial for machine learning in automated spore identification. Utilizing 17 species, models achieved up to 95% accuracy. Enhanced protocols support efficient, accurate real-time monitoring, advancing fungal spore detection methods globally.