1998 - Mycological Society of America

Supplement to
About This lssue
In This Issue
APHIS/APS Prevalent Fungi
List .................................... 1
Mycology Online.................... 2
Finding the Dolipore ............ 3
MSA Official Business
Letter fiom the President.. .. 4
MSA Abstracts ................... 5
ABLS Abstracts................. 56
Preliminary MSA Meeting
Program .............65
Endowment &
Contributions ........ 66
Change of Address ........... 70
Gift Membership .............. 72
Sustaining Members ..........73
Society Membership .......... 74
Mycological News.. ...............67
Mycologist's Bookshelf ........ 69
Mycological Classifieds
Positions available .............68
Mycological Services .........69
Courses ..............................70
Software available ..............70
Publications wanted ............70
Publications available .........70
Calendar of Events ...............7 1
Important Dates
April 23, 1998 -Deadline for
next Inoculum
MSA 1998 Annual Meeting
May 15 -Registration Due
June 11-16- PuertoRico
MSA Homepage:
http://www.erin.utoronto.ca/
-w3msal
Those who did not receive their Januaryffebruary [Volume 49(1)] Mycologia and
Inoculum until March will be comforted to know that a necessary software conversion designed to expedite future renewals interfered with timely delivery of our
publications to -200 MSA members. Allen Press, which sincerely apologizes for
the delay, has reimbursed the Society for any extra expense.
This year Faye Murrin has collated abstracts for both the Mycological Society of
America (pages 5-56) and the American Bryological and Lichenological Society
(pages 56-64) for the Joint MSNABLS Annual Meeting to be held Puerto Rico in
June. Don't forget to bring your copy of Inoculum with you as you prepare for the
trip to San Juan!
-- Lorelei Nowell
APHIS and APS Initiate Prevalent Fungi List
by Karel Jacobs, The Morton Arboretum
& Frank Dugan, American Type Culture Collection
The U.S.D.A. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Mycology Committee of the American Phytopathological Society (APS) have embarked on a collaboration with state regulatory officials to compile a list of widely
prevalent plant pathogenic fungi. The list is intended to help expedite the permit
process for transport of prevalent fungi between states. An APS Fungi List Working Group has been formed to implement the project. The Prevalent Fungi List,
analogous to the State Virus List currently maintained by APHIS
(http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ ppq/virus/idex.html), will be compiled on a state by
state basis. All participation by states is voluntary. For each participating state, the
list will encompass the plant pathogenic fungi that regulatory officials have agreed
to designate as widely prevalent for their state. Fungi on the list would still require a PPQ 526 permit, but the permitting process will be considerably expedited.
The process of forming the list has started with the selection of the most common
plant pathogenic fungi in the United States, as determined fiom Farr et al. (1989).
This initial country-wide list of approximately 240 plant pathogenic species will
be used to generate lists specific to each state. Regulatory officials for a given
state will be asked to approve or disapprove entries or add species to the list,
thereby controlling the content of the list for their state. The list is to be updated
annually.
Several individuals have been involved with setting up the Prevalent Fungi List.
APHIS initiated and is funding the project. Karel Jacobs of the Morton Arboretum
(immediate past chair, APS Mycology Committee) and Frank Dugan (American
Type Culture Collection) are providing administrative support for the project with
the assistance of regional supervisors who will serve as liaisons for states in their
region. Regional supervisors include Dave Appel (TX, AZ, NM), Lori Carris
1
Mycology Online
MSA Post Alert!!
Individuals subscribing to MSA Post may not be aware that
they are receiving messages via MSA Post and not the
"sender" as listed in the return address. Unfortunately,
some members have received Emails without realizing that
the message was sent to a general audience via MSA Post
and not to them as by the ultimate author. If you have
subscribed to MSA Post and use the reply mode to answer
correspondence, be certain to note the intended recipient
before sending your missive off into the ether. If "MSA
Post" appears in the recipient address rather than the name
of a single intended recipient, then be aware your response
will entertain all subscribers whether you want it to or not.
The Editor
-
Genera of the Xylariaceae
Prevalent Fungi List
(continuedfrom front page)
(WA, OR, ID, AK), Barbara Christ (PA, NY,NJ, CT, RI,
MA, NH, VT), Ken Conway (OK, NE, KS, CO), Themis
Michaillides (CA, NV,UT), Gary Simone (FL, HA), Glen
Stanoz (with Jacobs) (MN, WI,IL, IA, M,OH, MI, MO),
and Carol Stiles (LA, AR, MS, AL, GA, SC)). Two additional volunteers are being sought for the northern tier
states (ND, SD, MT, WY), and east-central states (with
Dugan) (KY, WV, TN, VA, NC, MD, DE, & DC). Communication between participants will be by correspondence, telephone and email, with occasional conference
calls. Financial support to help attend the Fungi List
Working Group at the annual APS meetings is available to
cooperating regional supervisors.
The Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State
University, has expanded its Web Project to cover more
genera of the Xylariaceae. Eleven genera completed thus
far include: Biscogniauxia, Creosphaeria, Daldinia, Discoxylaria, Entoleuca, Hypoxylon, Jumillera, Kretzschmariella, Stilbohypoxylon, Vivantia, and Whalleya. The list
of species names now contains approximately 1200 p u b
lished species epithets in the genera listed above, and there
are plans to add more genera and eventually a key to the
accepted genera. The URL to Genera of the Xylariaceae:
http://plantpath.wsu.edn/xylariaceae/default.asp
-- Yu-Ming J u
For information about becoming a regional supervisor,
contact:
Entornopathogenic Fungal Cultures
For questions about the project or permits contact:
Anwar Rizvi
USDA APHIS
Plant Protection and Quarantine
4700 River Road, Unit 133
Riverdale, MD 20737
(301)734-43 13
[email protected]
The current catalog of the USDA-ARS Collection of Entomopathogenic Fungal Cultures (ARSEF; Ithaca, NY) is
now available on-line in Adobe Acrobat (*.pdf) format at
the collection's website:
http://www.ppm.cornell.edu/mycology/
Insect-mycology.html
PDF files are available for the entire catalog (body and all
five indices) as well as separate files for the body and each
of the indices. In recognition of the fact that many users
are interested primarily in only a few major fungi, special
catalogs have been prepared for each of the four most important genera of entomopathogenic hyphomycetes
Beauvera, Metarhizium, Paecilomyces, and Verticillium.
Background and ordering information on the collection is also included . A special catalog covering the
ARSEF collection's accessions of the Entomophthorales
should be added to the web page soon. We anticipate being
able to include interactive searching of the ARSEF accession data, which will be made available within this year.
-- Richard Number
--
Karel Jacobs,
The Morton Arboretum
4100 Illinois Road
Lisle, IL 60532 USA
630-719-5646
[email protected]
An overview of plant pest permits is available via the
APHIS/ PPQ Homepage --
http:I/www.aphis.usda.gov/PPQ/
Addresses or phone numbers of state regulatory officials
can be located at
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppq/bats/statelst.htm1
or in Jong et al. (1996).
References:
Fan, D.F., G.F. Bills, G.P. Chamuris, and A.Y. Rossman.
1989. Fungi on Plants and Plant Products in the United
States. APS Press, St. Paul, MN.
Jong, S.C., F. Dugan, and M.J. Edwards (4s.) 1996.
ATCC Filamentous Fungi, 19th ed. Rockville, MD.
Observing the Dolipore with the
Light Microscope
by Heinz CIBmenqon, lnstitut de
Botanique Systematique et de GBobotanique
Thefollowing procedure, graciously shared by Dr.
Clkmen~on,shouldprove useful to both trained microscopists and to neophyte basidiomycetologists. Questions
to be directed to him in care ofthe above institute
(University of Lucerne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland)
or by e-mail <Heinz [email protected]>.
Among the most distinctive cytological structures of the
Basidiomycetes, the doliporus in the hyphal cross wall is
also one of the most difficult to observe with the light microscope. Using an appropriate staining method and the
right basidiomycete, the swelling and its central porus become readily visible and can be demonstrated in classes.
An oil immersion lens must be used, but there is no need
for highly corrected and expensive optical equipment.
Figure 1:Coprinus radicans Romagnesi, a clampless species.
Strain HC 80142 (in Institut de Botanique SystCmatique et de
Ghbotanique, University of Lausanne); Vegetative hypha fiom a
mycelial culture. Scale bar = 10 pm.
In my experience many basidiomycetes show dolipores
when stained with SDS Congo Red, but the h i t body
context and mycelial cultures of the Coprinus species with
small h i t bodies often have surprisingly big doliporestructures. My favorites are Coprinus radicans (Fig. I), C.
trisporus, C. bisporus, C. congregatus and C. stercoreus.
Another good fungus is Gyrophanopsispolonensis (Fig.
2). I would expect many other basidiomycetes to have sufficiently big dolipores for class work. Unfortunately the
cultivated mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (=A. brunnescens), has very small pores. An experienced worker may
see them, but they do not lend themselves for class work.
My former student Michel Monod, now working in medical mycology, found that fungal hyphae in scrapings fiom
human skin mycoses can be selectively stained using 0.3%
Congo Red dissolved in a 5% solution of SDS (sodium
dodecyl sulphate. Monod & al. 1989). Using his solution
on basidiomycetes I was immediately struck by the (almost
total) absence of staining of cell contents, while the hyphal
walls and the septa were nicely stained. For basidiomycetes
I now prefer a solution made fiom 1% Congo Red in 1%
SDS in distilled water. It strongly stains hyphal walls, hyphal septa and the dolipore swelling while leaving the cell
content unstained. The material sometimes plugging up
the porus also remains unstained. Thus no obstructing
material or structure interferes with the visibility of the
doliporus. For many basidiomycetes a staining time of 3-5
minutes is usually amply sufficient, although some species
may need up to 20 minutes.
A small sample fiom a fiesh hitbody is immersed in a
drop of the SDS Congo Red solution and squashed after 23 minutes. Since SDS is a powerf3.11 detergent most samples are quickly moistened and easily penetrated by the
staining solution. No boiling is necessary. Glycerol
(sometimes used to achieve higher refractive index of the
solution) should not be added as it is detrimental to the
staining.
Figure 2: Gyrophanopsis polonensis, (Bresadola) Stalpers &
Buchanan (= Botryobasidium polonense, (Bresadola) Boidin.
Strain CBS 132.62. Vegetative hypha fiom a mycelial culture.
Scale bar = 10 urn
The stain can also be used on mycelial cultures on agar. A
small (!) square of mycelial mat is cut out and put on a
microscope slide (mat side up), and a drop of SDS Congo
Red is applied. Because squashing may be a problem if the
hyphal mat is very dense, samples fiom the colony margin
are more easily handled than samples fiom the dense center. For the same reason only 0.8- 1.O% agar should be
used. Even so it takes some practice to squash in such a
way that the agar block does not become squeezed out fiom
beneath the cover glass.
I have also tried other detergents, but all work less well
than SDS. Sarcosyl has a similar effect, but the cell content
is usually stained orange. Tween 80 and Triton X 100 do
not work at all. Other dyes than Congo Red have not been
tested.
Bibliography -Monad, M., F. Baudraz-Rosselet, A. A. Rameler & E. Frenk,
1989. Direct Mycological Examination in Dermatology: a
Comparison of Different Methods. Dermatologica 179: 183186.
-
3
MSA Official Business
Letter from the President
Dear Fellow MSA members:
June is approaching rapidly and arrangements and scheduling for the MSA meeting in Puerto Rico are taking shape.
This year Sharon Cantrell is arranging for a grad student break room to provide a forum for distributing information and fostering communication between students. Additionally, various "experts" will be available at scheduled times to meet with the
students and discuss ideas, answer questions, etc. (See belowfor more information.)
MSA is a leader in providing mentor student travel awards. In addition to providing $300 for travel to our annual
meeting, these awards often result in matching funds fiom the student's department. In order to continue providing these
awards and increasing the number and monetary value of the awards, it is essential that you contribute, either for one of the
already named awards or by initiating a new one. A travel award in honor of Jim Trappe recently has been established.
Please contribute often and generously to the Endowment Fund!!!! I can assure you that the money you contribute will be
well-managed and much appreciated by current and future mycologists.
Please notice the gift membership form on page 72. This is another way that you can support and promote mycology.
Mycologia and Inoculum will be sent to the recipient of the gift membership and the annual renewal notices will be sent to the
gift-giver. This is an excellent way to support our mycological colleagues, especially those who cannot afford membership in
the MSA.
Thanks to John Zak for the new "Mycologist's Bookshelf' in Inoculum. This informs us of books that he has received for
review and indicates whether the book is "in the review process" or "in need of review," thus providing the opportunity for
mycologists to volunteer to review a book in which they have a particular interest.
I'd like to to take this opportunity to alert members to the Editorial in Science (279:302, week of 16 January 1998) by U.
S. Rep. V. J. Ehlers regarding the Future of U.S. Science Policy and requesting input fiom Societies as well as individuals.
This is an opportunity to provide input on how the U.S. charts the future course of science. Responses can be sent to and
information obtained fiom the policy study's website at www.house.gov/science/sciencegolicygstudy.htm.
I look forward to seeing all of you in San Juan, Puerto Rico in June.
Sincerely,
Mary E. Palm, President
8 March, 1998
Erratum and Appreciation -- Thanks to all of you who checked and updated your listings in the MSA membership database. As a result, the quality of the next edition of the MSA Directory will be much improved. Our apologies for any problems
encountered in using the link £i-omthe MSA web site. In some instances it was not the 'pleasurably straightforward' process
that I recently described, due to the fluidity of the web (more like a plasmodium). Thanks to Tom Volk and Dave Farr who
-- Rick Kerrigan
responded quickly to correct the problem.
MSAIABLS Meeting General Information
StudentlMentor Room - A room will be available during designated hours (hopefully each day) for students to meet
specialists in various groups of fungi or various mycologically associated disciplines. These informal sessions will allow the
exchange of information on specific research programs in the specialists labs and possible future positions for graduate students and/ or post-docs in the programs. Those with employment opportunities will also be invited to attend to interact with
possible candidates for the positions. For further information on participation contact Sharon Cantrell at CFMR, Forest Products Laboratory, U.S.D.A. Forest Service, P.O. Box 1377, Luquillo, P.R Phone (787) 889-7445; FAX (787) 889-7477. Email /s=s.cantrelVou [email protected]
Child Care - Child care and baby-sitting will be available through the Condado Hotel. Baby-sitting is available with 3
hours notice at $8/hr. with a 4 hr. minimum, a service fee of $2. is also added. Kids Camp is an activity program for children
5-12. It includes a number of activities such as games, swimming, etc. at the hotel. It runs fiom 10 AM to 3PM at a cost of
$25.
Registration and Housing - For registration and housing information consult the December and February issues of the
-- Hal Burhall
Inoculum or contact Hal Burdsall, Phone (608) 23 1-9234 or (608) 767-3930 or FAX (608) 767-3920.
Abstracts of Papers and Posters to be presented at the
Joint Annual Meeting of the Mycological Society of America
and the American Bryological and Lichenological Society
June 11-16 1998, San Juan, Puerto Rico, USA.
(ABLS abstracts begin on page 56)
*ABRAMOWSKY, GRETEL, WESTFALL, PATRICK,
AND MOMANY, MICHELLE, Department of Botany,
University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA, The
swollen cell phenotype of the swoA mutant of Aspergillus
nidulans.
Under stereoscope examination, fifty-two strains of
Aspergillus nidulans were chosen fiom 1,000 temperaturesensitive mutants for having a swollen phenotype. These
putative "swo" (for swollen) mutants were crossed with
wild type and scored for single gene mutations. Eight
segregated 1:l and were further characterized by testing
osdotic remediality and complementation. Five were
osmotically remedial in 1M sucrose at 42 degrees and two
of these did not complement. These two are allelic and
were named swoA-1 and swoA-2. A cell wall analysis
measuring carbohydrate content was done on wild type,
swoA-1 and swoA-2 using GCIMS. The analysis ruled out
any gross deletions of individual sugars. Currently, swoA1 and swoA-2 are being mitotically mapped.
*AIME, M.CATHERINE and MILLER,ORSON K., JR.,
Department of Biology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State
University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, A novel mode of
basidiospore dormancy and germination in the genus Crepidotus
(Fr.) Staude.
Prior endeavors to obtain cultures of Crepidotus fiom
basidiospores have been largely unsuccessful. In a recent
attempt to obtain single spore isolates (SSIs), the basidiospores
of a number of temperate species of Crepidotusremained
dormant for several months prior to germination. Further
experimental manipulation of various external factors, including
substrate, light, and temperature, suggest that spore dormancy in
these species is under endogenous control, involving a postrelease maturation period of four to six months, independent of
environmental conditions. Additionally, spores plated at
repeated monthly intervals from the same spore print germinated
duringthe same time frame.. Domant periods have been noted
in at leist, four taxa thus far tested. Parsimony analysis of the
nuclear DNA sequences coding for the large ribosomal subunit
confirm that the monokaryotic cultures thus obtained are species
of Crepidotus; sequences of randomly selected SSIs are most
closely related to those acquired fiom pileus tissue of the
parental collections when compared against a data set of over
300 agaric taxa that was provided by the Mycology Laboratory at
Duke University.
*ACEVJDO-RIOS, CARMEN T., RAMIREZ,IVAN and
BAYMAN, PAUL., Department of Biology, University of Puerto
Rico, Rio Piedras, P. 0.Box 23360, San Juan, PR. 0093 1-3360,
Degradation of phenanthrene by marine tropical hngi.
Marine tropical fingi From different substrates were examined
for their capability to degrade phenanthrene, a polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbon, in culture. Twenty-five ascomycetes and
deuteromycetes fiom different substrates as wood, mangrove
roots, sand and algae were examined. Fungi were grown in
GPYA liquid media with 5 ppm of phenanthrene. HPLC
analyses demonstrated that Xylaria, HpxyIon, Corollopra
and Torpedospora are able to degrade small amounts of
phenanthrene in'culture. The rapid disappearance of
phenanthrene from the liquid cultures by live and dead hngi
suggests that bioadsorption is taking place in addition to
degradatian.
*ALAMEDA, MYF&A and MIGNUCCI, JULIA, Depts.
of Agronomy and Soils and Crop Protection,
University of Puerto Rico, P.O. Box 5000,
Mayagiiez, 'Puerto Rico 00681-5000, Bacterial
blotch of oyster mbhrooms in Puerto Rico.
Moist, yellow and soft lesions were observed
(Pleurotus pulmonarius and P.
on oysters
0strea tus) mushroom basidiocarps . Lesions
spread all over the basidiocarp causing
premature
deterioration
and
death.
Basidiocarps with symptoms were cut and
surface desinfested by diluted bleach ( 1 Q t r ) .
Pieces were plated in tryptic soy agar (TSA)
or in 2 m l of sterile distilled water, teased
and streaked on TSA plates. Plates were
incubated for 48 h at 28OC. Single colonies
forming units, were isolated and purified in
TSA and King's .B medium.. Bacterial culture
broth (10' cfu ml-')
was placed on the
basid+carp surface. Controls were made with
sterile distilled water. They were placed in
lidded glass dishes and incubated at 28OC.
Duplicate
treatments
included'
four
basidiocarps. Two other tests had five
replicates
per
treatment
and . five
basidiocarps per chamber. Characteristic
lesions and sympt~ms, were observed 24 h
after inoculation. No symptoms were observed
in controls. The test bacteria was then
re-isolated as previously described. The
as
isolated
bacteria
was
identified
Burkholderia cepacia by API Rapid NFT and
BIOLOG identification system.
ALFENAS,
ACELINO
C.,
Department of
Plant
PathologyIBioagro. Federal University of Vi~osa,36571
000 - Vi~osa,Minas Gerais, Brazil. Combining molecular
and morphological data to study the taxonomy and biology
of fungi in Brazil: possibilities for collaboration.
*ALLEN, TAMARA R, NAFAR. FIROOZEH, BERCH,
SHANNON M., and BERBEE, MARY L., Department of
Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC V6S 124
Canada; British Columbia Minisvy of Forests. Glyn Road,
Victoria BC V8W 3E7 Canada, Diversity of ericoid mycorrhizal
fungi on Gaultheria shallon.
Brazil has probably one of the richest and most diverse
mycobiota of the tropics. Nevertheless, there currently are
very few mycologists working in the country, and most of
them have a primary interest on fungi as plant pathogens.
Several new species have been described over the years,
but the vast majority of them remain undescribed.
Traditionally, taxonomists have used a set of morphological
traits for description and identification of fungal taxa. Only
recently, have molecular markers been used as additional
tools on taxonomical and biological studies. Their
discriminatory power has been extensively shown lately at
species, race and strain levels. The high diversity of our
mycobiota and the need for more precise tools for accurate
diagnosis have increasingly required a closer international
collaboration among specialists. Like other countries, Brazil
has the National Research Council (CNPq) and State
Agencies, which supports international collaborations via
bilateral agreements for research programs, graduate
student training and posdoctoral studies. Our laboratory has
been maintaining a steady collaboration, under informal
terms, with several scientists from the United States, South
Africa and Australia. Taxonomical and biological studies
have been conducted mainly with Arthmbotrys,
Cylindmcladium, Cryphonectria cubensis, Puccinia psidii,
Phytophfhora, and Rhizoctonia.
We are identifying and mapping the distribution of different
species of ericoid mycorrhizal fungi along the roots of the
ericaceous shrub salal (Gaultheria shallon Pursh). Both RFLPs
and sequences from the ITS region are used to son and identify
ericoid mycorrhizal fungi isolated from 2 mm cuttings along 2
cm root segments from the field. The location of each 2 mm
segment from the original root was mapped and afterwards, the
original position of the fungi in each root was reconstructed. In
contrast to ectomycorrhizal fungi, in which a single fungus
usually colonizes a whole shon root of pine, a single species of
ericoid myconhizal fungus may colonize only a small patch of
cells. We are fmding a high diversity of fungi, as well as a single
dominant fungal colonist at the small scale of 2 cm of salal root.
RFLPs and ITS 2 sequences divided 36 isolates into seven
clusters. The first ITS 2 sequence cluster includes at least 24/36
isolates. These are discomycetes .related to the known ericoid
mycorrhizal fungus Hymenoscyphus ericae. The 24 isolates may
all be conspecific as they share 98- 100% ITS 2 sequence
similarity. Our isolates share 95% sequence similarity with H.
ericae, indicating close relationship, but not conspecifity. These
isolates are the dominant fungal colonist on two root segments.
The remaining isolates cluster into 6 groups and are distributed
along salal roots with two to three genetically different isolates
colonizing a single root segment. We are testing the ability of
these isolates to form mycorrhizae in vitro re-synthesis
experiments. If these fungi are mycorrhizal. then the distribution
of the 6 groups demonstrates the high diversity of ericoid
mycorrhizal fungi on a scale of millimeters.
*ALMODOVAR, WANDA I. and MIGNUCCI, JULIA S.,
Dept. of Crop Protection, University of
00680.
Puerto Rico, Mayag~iez, P.R.
volvariella volvacea and Coprinus spp .
interactions.
*ALONSO, ALMARIS N., BORGES, SONIA., and
BETANCOURT, CARLOS., Biology Department,
University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez Campus,
00681, Preliminary mycotic
Mayaguez, PR
flora
of
Onychochaeta
bori ncana
(Oligochaeta, Glossoscolesidae)
-
'
The interaction between Coprinus spp. and the
cultivated mushroom, Volvariella volvacea was
studied under controlled conditions at the
Tropical Mushroom Research Laboratory, Univ.
of P .R., Mayagtiez Campus. V. volvacea and
Coprinus cinereus were found together on
sugarcane (Saccarum officinarum) bagasse
piles in the Sugar Mills at Juana Diaz and
Ponce. None of the species were observed in
coffee (Coffea arabica) pulp piles or in rice
(Oryza sativa) waste. Both species can grow
at 30°C to 38OC. V. volvacea grew better at
pH 6.6 and C. cinereus at pH 4.5 to 6.8. In
vitro, both fungi grew better"at 38OC and p H
of 7 for V. volvacea and 5 for C. cinereus.
At ambient temperature (32OC to 34OC) and 70%
RH, C. cinereus and C. stercoreus, were
detected 2 to 5 days before harveot and at
the end of the harvest period. V. volvacea
grew better than C. cinereus on sugarcane
bagasse, coffee pulp and legume seeds
(Cajanus cajan, Phaseolus vulgaris and Cicer
arietinum). Of all substrates, coffee pulp
and C. cajan were more suited for V. volvacea
and C. cinereus growth. Coprinus spp. was
not detected in bagasse, clay, lime and
coffee pulp samples. However, other species
of Deuteromycetes were found.
Fungi and other microorganisms had been
isolated from the digestive tract of
different
earthworms..
Onychochaeta
borincana, , a native species' had been
describe recently for Puerto Rico.
The
mycotic flora o f this worm have never been
reported.
This
preliminary
investigation
revealed fungal colonies that have been
found through serial dilutions using
acidified
Potato
Dextrose
agar.
Identification of species have been made
using wet mount, permanent slides and
culture plates agar that enhance their
growth. Species of Trichoderma, Fusarium,
Paecilo~nyces, Penicillium and Aspergill us
had been identified.
* A M M I W , JOE, and MICHELLE SEIDL, Department of
Botany, 355325, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
USA, ROY HALLMG, New York Botanical Garden, Bronx,
NY 10458 USA, and GREGORY MUELLER, Department of
Botany, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL 60605
USA, The genus Cortinarius (Agaricales), subgenus Myxacium
in Costa Rica.
ARIAS GARCIA, A.', RAM~REZCARRILLO, R., and *LEAL
LARA, H., Department of Biotechnology and Food Science,
faculty of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 MBxico D.F.,
Departament of Botany and Zoology, University of
Guadalajara, P. 0. Box 139, Zapopan, 45100 Jalisco,
MBxico. Selection of high yielding dikaryons of Pleumfus
SPP.
The genus Cortinarius is well represented in the montane
evergreen Quercus forests of Costa Rica. While the total
number of Cortinarius species in these forest habitats is unknown,
collecting done over the past four years from sites in the provinces
of Cartago and San JosC, clearly show that the genus is a major
component of the ectomycorrhizal mycota in these regions of
Costa Rica. All of the traditional subgenera of Cortinarius are
represented, with eight species of Myxacium distributed among the
sections Defibulati, Myxacium, Delibuti and Ochroleuci. A
taxonomic overview of these Myxacia will be presented and their
geographical distributions discussed in relation to regions of North
America and Europe.
', CANTRELL, S. A.', PERDOMO, 0. P. ',
Department of Biological Sciences, POB
2000, SUNY-Cortland, Cortland, NY 13045, USA; Center for Forest
Mycology Research. Forest Products Laboratory, USDA Forest
Service, POB 1377, Luquillo, PR 00773; School of Biology,
University of Costa Rica, San Pedro. Costa Rica; 'Department of
Biology. University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez. PR 00680,
*BARONI, T. J.
and ORTIZ, B.
'BARONI. T. J.', MONCALVO, J. M:~,AND VILGALYS,
R . ~'~epartmentof Biological Sciences, State University
of New York - College at Cortland, Cortland, NY 13045;
2~epartmentof Botany, Duke University, Durham, NC
27708. Phylogeny of the Entolomataceae inferred from
nlsu rDNA sequences.
-'
-
Basidiomycetesof the Greater Antilles: Pouzarella
(Entolomataceae, Agaricales) new species and new
reports from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.
-
Several new species of Pouzarella are reported from the
Dominican Republic and one new species is described from
Puerto Rim. All of these new taxa belong in the Section
Dysthales, Subsection Dysthales sensu Mauer (1976).
Pouzarella foefida Mazzer and P. squamosifolia (Murr.)
Mauer' have also been collected in Puerto Rim and will be
discussed as well. This report is the firs! which recognizes
the presence of members of the genus Pouzarella in the
Caribbean and adds four new species to a genus which
presently comprises 40 taxa worldwide. Each of these new
taxa will be illustrated with color photographs of the
basidiomata, photomicrographsor line drawings of the
anatomical structures, and line drawings andlor SEM images
of basidiospores. A discussion of the morphological
characters used to discriminate taxa in this genus will be
presented and an overview of biogeography of Pouzarella
will be provided. A taxonomic key to the species of
Pouzarella which occur in the Caribbean will be available for
distribution (in English and Spanish). This report was made
possible by support from the Biotic Surveys and Inventories
Program of the National Science Foundation (DEB #9525902).
Production of nutritious food and recycling of agricultural byproducts can be accomplished by production of edible
mushrooms, particularly of those rapidly growing in
uncomposted lignocellulosic wastes, like Pleumtus
Development of strains producing large fruit bodies with
high yields could improve economics and marketing of this
fungus. Improved strains for mushroom cultivation are
currently selected by trial and error. Productivity and fruiting
characteristics are evaluated after the whole cultivation
cycle has been completed.
Although production of hybrids is relatively easier with
Pleurotus in comparison to Agaricus, since the former.
presents heterothallic tetrapolar sexuality, a shortcut at the
first screening level, the pilot-scale evaluations of numerous
strains, should be of great value. In order to develop such
test, various strains from our Pleumtus breeding program
were evaluated in regards to their sensitivity to 2Deoxyglucose (2DG). a toxic glucose analog. Resistant
strains are probably not regulated through feedback
inhibition by increased intracellular glucose concentrations.
Dikaryons produced by pairing neohaplonts from high
yielding strains were cultivated on straw substrates and
various production parameters were followed, like fruiting
initiation, yield, minimum cropping time for maximum yield
and average fruit body weight. A correlation between yield
and resistance to 2DG was found.
Phylogenetic analysis of sequence data from the nuclearencoded large subunit RNA gene (25s rDNA) clearly
supports the Entolomataceae as a monophyletic group
within the Agaricales. The nuclear-encoded rDNA region
has been sequenced for nearly thirty species from
Albolepfonia, Claudopus, Clifopilus, Entoloma, Inopilus,
Leptonia, Nolanea, Pouzarella, and Rhodocybe. A
cladistic analysis shows strong support for many of the
common genera traditionally placed in the
Entolomataceae. Within the Entolomataceae, several
distinct clades can be recognized that correspond, for the
most part, to genera which have been based on
morphological characters; for example Clifopilus and
Rhodocybe are recognized as separate groups, with
several other groupings corresponding to Nolanea,
Claudopus, Entoloma, etc. Although this data set is still
relatively small, these new findings suggest that further
investigations using molecular analyses will have a
significant impact on the generic and infrageneric
classification of the Entolomataceae.
7
'BATTICK, CLEVE L., WALKER, OPAL I.,
McLYMONT, PETER E., Scientific Research Council,
Hope Gardens, P.O. Box 350 Kingston 6, Jamaica,
West lndies, Oyster Mushroom , Pleurotus sajor caju
Cultivation in Jamaica.
The tropical oyster mushroom, Pleurotus sajor caju
h a s been adapted to grow on locally available
agricultural wastes and other lignocellulose materials
found in Jamaica. Spawn w a s produced from a
peanut shell-woodshaving mixture in 14 days and
from enriched rice hull in 21 days. Mushrooms were
produced from a variety of substrates 21 28 days
after inoculation. T h e following average biological
efficiencies were obtained: 107% (rice straw); 87%
(guinea grass-banana leaf mixture); 76% (guinea
grass) and 60% banana leaf.
Adaptive research carried out by the Scientific
Research
.Council
was
transferred
to
farrners/investors who were assisted in the
establishment of pilot and cottage scale to small
commercial mushroom farms. S o m e 90% of the
mushrooms have been sold fresh and the remainder
converted to value added products such as coating
and s o u p mix, pickle and chutney.
-
*BERGEMANN, SARAH E. AND LARGENT, DAVID L.
Depanment of Biological Sciences, Humboldt State University,
Arcata CA 95521. USA, The Ecology of the Pacific Golden
c hanterel le. ( 'tr~~~hnrrlln~.~.fi~rn~ost~.~.
'To identity the environmental factors which affect basidiome
I 15-5x5m plots of similar
distribution of (irrn/hmll~isfc~rnios~is,
composition and structure were established in a forested stand
composed of Sitka spruce and western hemlock. In 60 randomly
selected plots (30 with and 30 without basidiomes) totd percent
of shrubs. forbs, bryophytes, canopy cover, and duff depth were
measured. In addition. soil analyses were completed in all 60
plots for determination of exchangeable cations, acidity and
aluminuni, pH, and organic matter. Data were analyzed using
lnultiple logistic regression analysis to determine which
environn~entalvariables were important in predicting the habitat
requirenients of the basidiomes. Results of analyses indicate that
chanterelles are found in areas with low to moderate amounts of
duff, low exchangeable acidity, and relatively open understory.
*BERBEE, MARY L.l CARMEAN, DAVID~,
WINKA.
KATARINA~and ERIKSSON, OVE3, lDepartment of Botany,
University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4 Canada;
2Depamnent of Biology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby
Canada; 3 ~ e ~ a r t m efor
n t Ecological Botany, U m d University,
S901 87 UmeA Sweden, Phylogenetic resolution and the
radiations of the Ascomycota.
Molecular phylogenies for the ascomycetes rely heavily on 18s
rRNA gene sequences but this gene alone does not answer all
questions about relationships. Would more data resolve branching
order? We are using the jackknife and bootstrapping resampling
approach that constitutes the PRN method to address the
relationship between data and resolution. We graphed the effect of
increasing sizes of subsamples of the 18s rRNA gene sequences
on bootstrap suppon for nodes in the Ascomycota uee. Nodes
respond differently to increasing data Some nodes, those uniting
the Pleosporales, the pyrenomycetes and the plectomycetes,
would still be strongly supported with only half of the 18s rRNA
gene. Other nodes, like the one uniting the filamentous
ascomycetes, are reasonably well supported but require the whole
18s rRNA gene to arrive at 95% bootstrap support. For the
nodes at the base of the filamentous ascomycetes, bootstrap
suppon increases slowly or not at all with increasing data. Of the
several groups emerging at the base of the filamentous
ascomycetes, the Pezizales receive the most support as the first to
diverge. However, our analysis suggests we would need much
additional sequence data to c o n f i i the basal position for the
Pezizales. For the filamentous ascomycetes, the lack of response
to increasing data points to an early radiation that was too rapid to
be recorded by 18s gene substitutions. This implies that the six
or more basal lineages of the filamentous ascomycetes originated
over a period of less than 40 million years.
*B~~RUBEJEANA., and **TRUDELLE. JULIE.Canadian Forest
Service, 1055 du PEPS, P.O. Box 3800, Ste-Foy, QC, Canada.
**Centre de Recherche en Biologie Forestiere. Pav. Marchand.
Universitk Laval, Ste-Foy. QC. GlK 7P4.
Biodiversity and distribution of fungal endophytes on eastern white
pine (Pinus strobus) needles.
The genus Pinus has been studied in the past to determine its
endophyte fungal biodiversity. Unfortunately eastern white pin?
(P. strobus) has received little attention in that regard despite its
great commercial value. Asymptomatic and healthy needles were
collected from 5 white pine populations in Quebec and
Newfoundland and were surface sterilized and then plated on
nutrient agar. Early results indicate white pine is hosting many
fungal endophytes species, up to 80 species depending on sites.
Endophyte fungal biodiversity and distribution in retation to host
location, stand health and stand size will be presented.
BETANCOURT, CARLOS', *NIEVES-RIVERA, ANGEL
M.2, and SANTOS-FLORES, CARLOS3, 'Department of
Biology, University of Puerto Rico, MayaguCz PR 00681
USA; 2Department of Marine Sciences, University of Puerto
Rico, Mayaguez, 0068 1..PRUSA; joceanography and
Limnology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison,
Madison WI 53703 USA Mycological explorations of Guasca
pramo, Cundinamarca Department, Colombia.
During a field trip on 3 April 1996, we explored the paramo of
Guasca (or Siecha), located N of Santafe de Bogot-. This
paramo is catalogued as a lower paramo for this location,
elevation (3,300-3,400 m. alt.) and flora. Six species of
Agaricales and ten species of aquatic hyphomycetes were
recorded from the paramo: Crepidotus nephrodes, Laccaria
luccata, Panaeolus sphinctrinus, Psilocybe argentina, P.
rnontana and Stropharia serniglobata (Agaricales); Alatospora
ucuminata, Gyoer-ella craginiformis, G. rotula, G.
entornobryoides, G. speciosa, lateriramulosa sp.,
Pleuropediurn tricladioides, pleuropediurn sp., Tatracladium
marchalianum, and T. setigerum (Aquatic hyphomycetes).
Only the basidiomycetes Psathyrella viloriana, and S.
serniglobata, and the mitosporic fungi GyoerffLella speciosa,
and Pleuropedium tricladioides were previously known from
this location. Psilocybe argentina is a new record for
Cundinamarca, C. nephrodes and L. laccata were collected
above the 3,000 m of elevation.
'BIDARTONDO, MARTIN I., KRETZER, ANNETTE, and
BRUNS, THOMAS D., University of California at Berkeley,
Berkeley, CA 94720-3102 USA, Identity and spatial distribution
of the fungal associate of Sarcodes sarrguinea.
The snow plant, Sarcodes sanguinea (Monolropoideae), is a nongreen plant that obtains its nutrition from fir (Abies) hosts through
mycorrhizal links. Since 1996, we have sampled the roots of 40
Sarcodes plants in two areas of the Siena Nevada of California and
used molecular methods to identify their fingal associates. In both
areas, roughly 130 miles apart, Sarcodes sanguinea associates
exclusively with Rhizopogon ellenae, a hypogeous
ectomycorrhizal fungus. In order to assess the abundance of R
ellenae at the local level we sampled Abies ectomycorrhizasat Sm,
lm, O.Sm, O.lm, and Om from Sarcodes plants at a pure stand of
red fir (Abies mag-nrjica) in July and August of 1997. The Abies
ectornycorrhizal community in the soil directly in contact with
Sarcodes js almost exclusively composed of R ellenae, while the
same fungus is much less common just 10 cm away from
Sarcodes, and becomes rare at lm. This suggests that most
nutrient transfer from Abies to Sarcodes via R ellenae occurs
through distances less than 10 cm. Our results show that
Sarcodes occupies small dense patches of R elle11ae within a
complex ectomycorrhizal community. A molecular
characterization of this community will also be presented.
*BETANCOURT, CARLOS, ORTIZ, BEATRI Z , and
LOZADA, CHAD. University of Puerto RicoMayaguez Campus, Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
00681, Preliminar survey of aquatic and
water-borne hyphomycetes from Orinoco River
in Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela.
Aquatic and water-borne hyphomycetes are an
important part of the river ecosistem. Foam
samples were collected at different sites in
Puerto Ayacucho at the Orinoco River. Foam
samples were collected on June,1997 and
preserved using lactophenol and cotton blue.
Forty
one
species
were
identified
representing 29 genera. The most common
genera isolated
were Anguillospora
(2
Condylospora
(3
species) ,
species) ,
Isthmotricladia (2 species), Lemonniera (4
species l ,
Tricladium
(2
species),
(2
species),and
Triscelophorus
Varicosporium
(4 species). Twenty three
genera and thirty five species. represent new
records for Venezuela.
*BILLS, GERALD
F.', PLATAS, GONZALO',PE&
FERN AN DO^, AND
MASUREKAR, WSH'
'Natural Products Drug Discovery. Merck Research Laboratories,
Rahway, New Jersey, 07065-0900, U.S.A. 'Centro de Investigaci6n
Bgsica, Merck Sharp & Dohme de Espaiia, S.A.. Josefa Valcikcel 38,
28027, Madrid, Spain. ATCC 20868, previously identified as Zalerion
arboricola, is a new genus and species of aparnorphic Leotiales
The fungal metabolite used as the starting material for the
experimental antifungal drug MK-0991, is the glucan synthase
inhibitor, pneumocandin B,. Pneumocandins A, and B, are produced
by a dematiaceous hyphomycetous fungus isolated from filtrates of
pond water from the valley of the Lozoya River, Spain (ATCC
20868). The importance of pneumocandin B, as the fermentationderived starting material for the antifungal drug candidate, MK-0991.
along with the identification of our original isolate as Z. arboricola at
CBS in 1987 prompted a search for strains of Z. arboricola or other
strains of Zalerion species with improved titers or that might produce
natural pneumocandin analogs. ATCC 20868 was not congeneric with
2. arboricola because its morphology and mode of conidiogenesis
differed from that of authentic Zalerion species. No authentic
Zalerion strain produced pneumocandins. DNA fingerprinting
showed that the fungi producing pneumocandins are distinct from
authentic Zalerion strains.
About 600 bp from the rDNA region including the two spacers ITS1
and ITS2. and the 5.8s rRNA gene, were amplified and sequenced
from these fungi. Alignment of rDNA sequences from ATCC 20868
with the Z arboricola strains was nearly impossible, therefore
suggesting high phylogenetic distance. However, alignment was
possible with Z. varium and with Pezicula carpinea. Sequences were
compared with rDNA sequences in Genbank. No matches were
obtained for 2. arboricola or Z. maritimum, but for Z. varium. P.
carpinea and ATCC 20868, relevant similarities were observed with
ITS1 sequences from fungi of the Leotiales. We conclude that the
genus Zalerion is completely artificial; its species bear no
phylogenetic relation among themselves. ATCC 20868 and Z. varium
were related to fungi of the Leotiales. We propose a new anamorph
genus and species to accommodate ATCC 20868.
*BINION, DENISE E., JENKINS, MICHELLE R, MISSEL,
NATHAN D., and STEPHENSON, STEVEN L., USDA Forest
Service, Morgantown, WV 26505 USA; South Carolina Botanical
Gardens, Clemson, SC 2963 1 USA; Dept. Of Botany, Clemson
University, Clemson, SC 2963 1 USA; and Dept. of Biology,
Fairmont State College, Fairmont, WV 26554 USA. Corticolous
myxomycetes of the Luquillo Experimental Forest, Puerto Rico.
BLACKWELL, M., Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana
State University, Baton Rouge LA 70803 USA, International
cooperation in fungal research.
Several different microhabitats for myxomycetes exist in forest
ecosystems. One of these is the bark surface of living trees. ~ o t e
than100 species of myxomycetes have been reported fiom the bark
microhabitat as field andlor moist chamber collections. Virtually
all of these records are based on studies carried out in temperate
regions of the world; studies of the bark-inhabiting (or corticolous)
myxomycetes of tropical trees are generally lacking. During the
1996 and 1997 field seasons, samples of the dead outer bark were
collected from 35 different species of trees within the Luquillo
Experimental Forest in northeastern Puerto Rico. These samples
were brought back to the laboratory and used to prepare a series of
moist chamber cultures. Results obtained thus far seem to indicate
that species richness of the bark microhabitat in tropical forests is
much lower than is the case for temperate forests. Only a few
species have been recorded often enough to be considered
common. Prominent examples are Arcyria cinerea, Cribraria
microcarpa, C. violacea and Perichaena chrysosperma. In general,
values recorded for bark pH (which ranged from 3.4 to 7.2 for all
samples) were not very different from those reported for bark
samples fiom trees in temperate forests. (Supported in part by a
grant from the National Science Foundation.)
Diverse h g a l habitats and recent technological advances are not
available equally to all mycologists; however, there are ways in
which every mycologist can participate in research requiring fungal
specimens from under-studied hdbitats and specialized
instrumentation. A relevant example is provided by biodiversity,
studies, especially those incorporating molecular systematics
approaches. Teams of mycologists in distant geographical regions
and with different biological expertise interact freely if they are
~ 0 ~ e ~byt the
e dInternet. Rapid communication by electronic
mail is a major factor in our recent ability to interact globally, but
World Wide Web sites that include directories of mycologists,
literature, data bases, interim data sets, and taxonomic keys also
are usell to mycology and help to facilitate international
cooperation at a time of heightened interest in such activities.
Today it is funding that often is the limiting factor for increased
international research efforts, but some sources do exist that
encourage international cooperation. The presentation will
include examples of useful web sites and relevant sources of
funding.
*BLAIR, J.R., Department of Biology, San Francisco State
University, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA, Fungi associated
with Arctostaphylos in cenual California
*BLANCHETTE, ROBERT A., XIE, WIEPING, and MIROCHA,
CHESTER J. Department of plant Pathology, University of
Minnesota. St. Paul, MN 55 108 USA, Identification of aromatic
compound; produced by Haploporus odorus, the sacred fungus
used in traditional Native American culture.
Very little is known about fungi that occur with the more than 50
species in the ericaceous genus Arctostaphylos. The majority of
available information comes from studies of its mycorrhizal
relationships. Collections of all fleshy basidiomycetes and
ascomycetes occuning in selected stands of Arctostaphylos were
made beginning January 1996 and ending in the spring of 1998.
The majority of sampling was done on Mount Tamalpais in Marin
County, with limited sampling conducted in other appropriate
stands throughout central California. Approximately 160 species
of fungi have been collected associated with 12 taxa of
Arctostaphylos. Taxonomic associations and ecological trends
will be discussed, and similarity comparisons between sites and
an investigation of species richness found within the sites will be
presen ted.
10
The North American Plains Indians used Haploporus odorus in
medicine bundles and to adorn necklaces, sacred robes and other
cultural properties. Museum collections dating ta the early 1800s
indicate the Blackfoot, Cree and many other northern tribes used'
the fungus as a component of sacred objects and a symbol of
spiritual power. Haploporus odorus is still used by some Native
Americans in northern Canada as a smudge or incense in sacred
ceremonies and healing rituals. The fungus appears to have been
selected and revered because it is exceedingly aromatic. Fresh
basidiocarps and cultures of H. odorus as well as segments of
decayed wood fiom behind basidiocarps were placed in closed
glass containers and purged through Tenax traps with air for 2
hours. The trapped air samples were extracted and analyzed by gas
chromatography\mass spectroscopy. A single compound found in
high concentration was identified aspanisaldehyde. Spectra of a
purified p-anisaldehyde standard were identical to spectra fiom H.
odorus samples. Although one compound appears to be the
primary component responsible for the aroma, it is unlikely Native
Americans would use a synthetic substitute for H.odorus
basidiocarps. The historic and cultural significance of the
basidiocarps, ability of the sporophore to maintain an aroma for
several months to years, and capacity to bum and smolder for long
periods when ignited all contributeto the value of this fungus in
Native American culture.
*BOURElT', TIMOTHY M., CZYMMEK2, KIRK J. and
H O W A ~ ' ,RICHARD J., 'DuPont Agricultural Products,
Wilmington, DE 19880 USA and 2Department of Biological
Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713 USA, An
improved method for affinity probe localization in whole cells of
filamentous fungi.
The fungal cell wall, though phylogenetically variable, acts
universally as a potent banier to probing intracellular structures.
Thus, the use of large molecular weight probes such as antibodies
and lectins has been challenging. We have devised a protocol for
use with fluorophore-tagged affinity probes that can be applied to a
broad spectrum of filamentous fungi and used to image whole
cells. In this study, confocal imaging of whole-mount h g a l
hyphae after freeze substitution, methacrylate embedmentfde-embedment and infiltration with aff~nity probes has
yielded remarkably improved renderings of the three-dimensional
distribution of both microtubules and concanavalin A binding sites.
We have been able to document: (1) the three-dimensional
distribution of rnicrotubules in all regions of hyphae, (2) the
presence of apparent foci for cytoplasmic microtubules; (3)
persistent cytoplasmic microtubules during mitosis, (4) a
three-dimensional view of many compartments of the
endomembrane system including Golgi-equivalent organelles and
apical vesicles. The latter represents the first direct confirmation of
apical vesicles comprising the Spitzenkorper.
'BRUNS, THOMAS Dl., BONELLO, PIERLUIG12 and
SZARO, TIMOTHY,M.l 1Dept. Plant and Microbial
Biology, Univ. Cal, Berkeley, 94720-3102, USA, and
* ~ e p tPlant
.
Pathology, Univ. Cal. Davis, CA. 95616,
USA Genets of Amanita francheti are relatively small
in a thirty five year old pine forest.
We have mapped basidiocarps of Arnanita pancheti
and used Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms
(AFLPs) to identify identical genotypes. Four primer
combinations yielded 70 variable fragments; individual
fragment patterns were highly reproducible a s
demonstrated by multiple runs o n independently
extracted samples. We used the estimated allele
frequencies to calculate the probability of observing
identity by chance. To identify technical errors, that
would lead to erroneously non-identical genotypes, w e
reexamined the AFLP patterns for pairs of individuals
exhibiting pair-wise distances that were less than 3
standard deviations from the mean distance for all
painvise comparisons. Using these criteria, w e found
that of the 26 basidiocarps analyzed, 16 had unique
genotypes, and four other genotypes were shared by two
to four basidiocarps. The largest covered a minimum
size of 25 sq. meters. This contrasts with Suillus
pungens, which obtained a minimum size of over 300
sq. meters in the same plot.
*BOYD, MARIA L. AND COTTY, PETER J., Southern
Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, New Orleans, LA
70 124 USA, Characterizationof Aspergillus sectionflavi
communities fiom natural habitats in the Sonoran desert.
Communities of A. jlavus in natural habitats were examined to
provide insight into ecological roles of aftatoxin producing fungi
and potential influences of natural habitats on aflatoxh
contamination of crops. Thirty-six samples of soil, dung, and
plant debris were collected in four sites in the Sonoran desert
during fall of 1997. Two sites were greater than 10 mi. from the
nearest cultivated field. Propagule densities at the four locations
were similar (200 propaguledg). However, the density of
propagules associated with plant debris averaged 800
propaguledg, while those associated with dung and soil
averaged 60 propaguledg. Five hundred isolates were
characterized by species and strain. Isolates from sites distant
fiom cultivation were 91% A. j7uvu.s strain L, 0.5% strain S and
9% A. tamarii. Locations closer to cultivation were 83% A.
jlavus strain L, 16% strain S, and 1%A. tamarii. Matoxin
production was assessed for 75 strain L isolates. Within each
location aflatoxh producing abiity was highly variable with a
pattern similar to that reported for isolates fiom agricultural
fields: More isolates fiom plant debris (23%) produced toxin
levels over 100,000 ppb than isolates fiom dung (14%) or soil
(4%), whereas 62% of dung and 54% soil isolates produce less
than 500 ppb. Only 38% of plant debris isolates produced less
than 500 ppb aflatoxin.
'BUNKLEY-WILLIAMS, L.!, WILLIAMS, E.H.!, RAND,
T.G!'., '~aribbeanAquatic Animal Health Project, Department of
Biology and Marine Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Lajas,
PR 00667-0809; '! Department of Biology, Saint Mary's
University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3C3, Mycotic wasting
disease in two species of tilapia associated with the
hyphomycete Paecilomyces lilacinus from Puerto Rico.
A disease referred to as tilapia wasting disease has been
recognised-in the Mandri and Santa Teresa Lagoons near
Hurnacao, in eastern Puerto,Rico at least since the 1980s. This
disease is associated with mass mortalities of Mozambique
tilapia, Tilapia mossambica and blue tilapia, T. aurea. Fishes had
sunken abdomens, rough and hemorrhagic skin, and frayed fins.,
Infections were also marked by the presence of numerous
granulomas throughout the skin and internal organs especially
the spleen, kidney, heart, liver and gill tissues. Lesions showed
the classical histopathological picture characteristic of other
systemic hyphomycoses in piscine hosts, including the presence
of invading hyphae, hyphal fragments, conidia, and mixed
cellular and caseous material surrounded by fibrous connective
tissue of varying thickness. Bacteria were not observed in the
lesion material. Tissue samples from diseased fish .yielded the
hyphomycete Paecilomyces lilacinus. Other fungi and bacteria
were not recovered from lesion material suggesting this fungus
was the etiological agent. Further studies to test Koch's
Postulates, and to determine the source and route of infection are
required.
CAFARO, MATIAS J., Department of Botany, University of
Kansas, Lawrence KS 66045 USA, Isozyme study on fungal
endophytes of grasses from Argentina
CAMACHO, FRANCISCO 1. and TRAPPE, JAMES M.,
Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State
University, Corvallis, OR 9733 1 U.S.A., The mycorrhizae of
pumice grape fern, Bovchium pumicola.
This paper presents the fist isozyme study on fungal
endophytes of grasses from South America and a comparison
with some isolates from the Northern Hemisphere.
Three native cool-season grasses, Festuca argentina, F.
hieronymi, and Poa huecu, were found to be toxic to cattle.
Being asymptomatic plants, tiller tissue and seeds were
examined for fungal infection. This analysis showed an
association with fungal endophytes similar to the one present in
the tall fescue (F. arundinacea) and ryegrass (Lolium
perenne). No sexual forms have been found so far in South
America, so it is assumed that these fungi are exclusively
anamorphs. Micromorphological studies of the isolates helped
to assign them to the genus Neotyphodium Glenn, Bpcon &
Hanlin. Species within this genus are designated by colony
morphology in culture and conidial size, which are not very
reliable characters. Due to the economical importance of these
grasses, there have been several attempts to characterize them
through molecular and genetic markers.
Five different populations of these native grasses were sampled
and the fungal endophytes isolated on PDA slants. These were
used for isozyme studies along with four isolates from the
Northern Hemisphere. Results show low variability within and
between' isolates of different host grasses from the five
populations, but important differences were found with isolates
from North America and Europe.
Species of Botrychium (Ophioglossaceae) are obligate
mycotrophs. Both the achlorophyllous subterranean
gametophyte and the roots of the sporophyte are abundantly
colonized by intracellular fungi. In some species, such as B.
pumicola, asexual reproduction can take place by
achlorophyllous subterranean sporophytic gemmae. In both the
gametophyte and gemma stages of the life cycle, the plant
receives its nutrition fiom mycorrhizal fungi. This study focuses
on the identification and specificity of the mycorrhizal fungi
occurring with B. pumicola. The entire fungal community, not
only arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, ofB. pumicola roots are
being examined. Two approaches are being used. One is the
culturing of hngi fiom the roots. The other is the direct PCR
amplification of the fungal ITS region of the nrDNA fiom the
roots. The ITS region is being used to phylogenetically identify
the fungi associated with B. pumicola. Because several b g i
may inhabit the same section of root, the PCR products from the
root DNA are cloned to segregate the various ITS phylotypes.
The PCR clone libraries provide insight into the composition of
the fungal community. There are currently three dominant
phylotypes. Two are clearly filamentous ascomycetes and match
ITS sequences fiom isolated kngi. The third is apparently
closely related to arbuscular mycorrhizae.
'CANTRELL, SHARON A and LODGE, D. J., Center for
Forest Mycology Research USDA-Forest Service, Forest
Products Laboratory, Luquillo PR 00773-1377,
Hygrophoraceae of the Dominican Republic.
A preliminary list of species within the family Hygrophoraceae is
provided with new reports for the Dominican Republic and the
Caribbean. Two types of forest have been sampled. At high
elevation (2000-3000 m) this forest is composed of the endemic
pine, Pinus occidentalis. At lower elevation the forest is composed
of broad leaf vegetation. Six species of Hygrocybe have been
found; H. cantharellus, H. cf insipida, H. nigrescens, H. cf
persistens var. c u r p b , H. psittacina var. perplexa, and a new
variety, H. noelokeluni var dominguensis. This species was
originaly described from Hawaii. Two species of Cuphophyllus,
C. pratensis var. pratensis and Cuphophyllus sp. nov.? were
collected. Within the genus Hygrophow we found two species at
high elevation; H. speciosus and H. hyphotejus.
*CARBONE, IGNAZIO and KOHN, LINDA M., Dept. of Botany.
University of Toronto, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, LSL 1C6.
A strategy for designing primer sets for speciation studies.
gem
a histodeal
framework for studying population and species-level processes. In
order to study speciation processes, however, we must extrapolate
from the specie; and pop&on levels to the species/population
interface. extending our specie trees downward and our gene trees
upwards. This is challenging 'since it requires finding genomic
molution. The suite of
regions with intraspecific and inters-c
nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences accessioned in databases are not
sufficient, especially at the intraspecific level. The availability of an
increasing number of proteinencoding sequences in GenBank and
other genetic databases offers the possibility of designing primer sets
that can amplify specific genomic regions across many different
fungal species. The fust step in our primer design strategy was to
generate a multiple alignment of a l l the sequences accessioned for a
particular gene in GenBank, using the sequence from Neurospora
crassa as the query. Primers were designed from homologous exon
sequences flanking homologous intron insertion sites, as revealed in
the multiple alignment. Such a design strategy has a twofold
advantage. First, designing primers in exon sequences that are
homologous among many species increases the chance of amplifying
the region, even among distantly related species. Second, amplifying
regions containing introns (ca300 bp) increases the chance of
detecting intraspSic variation, which is usually more abundant in
noncoding regions. Using this technique, we amplified and identified
intras@ic variation in gene fragments (a.
400 bp) from three
nuclear loci in Sclerofinia sckrotionun: translation elongation factor 1
alpha, calmoddin, and chitin synthase. Four other genes encoding
actin, beta-tubulin, ras protein, and endopolygalacturonaseshowed
resolution at the population or species level. AU primer sets amplified
a product from DNA of other fungal species, e.g., Neurospora
crassa .
CARVAJAL-ZAMORA, JUAN R.1, and *NIEVES-RIVERA,
ANGEL M.29 'Department of Biology, Inter American
University, Fajardo PR 00738 USA; 2Department of Marine
Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez PR 0068 1
USA. Preliminary checklist of cave mycobiota of Puerto Rico
with special reference to bat-guano enriched soil
hyphomycetes.
One hundred and twenty-five bat-guano enriched soil samples
from twenty five caves of the northern and southwestern
limestone karst zones of Puerto Rico (including Mona Island)
were collected and screened for the presence of soil
hyphomycetes. A partial checklist of the previously known
mycobiota from literature, isolated or collected from the caves
is provided. Forty eight records for cave mycobiota of Puerto
Rico are reported: Alfernaria sp., Aspergillus cf. candidus,A.
Javus, A. fumigatus, A. japonicus, A. nidulans, A niger, A.
parasifucus,A. vesicolor, Bipolaris sp., Borryris sp.,
Chaefomiumcf. globosum, Cladosporium cladosporoides,C.
herbarum, C. oxysporum, Curvularia lunata, Dreschlera sp.,
Fusarium sp., Geothricum candidum, Gilmaniella sp.,
Giocladium cf. roseum, Hirssutella sp., Humicola cf. grisea,
Isaria sp., Paecilomyces sp., Penicillium cf. crysogenum, P.
lilacinum, P. roqueforyi, P. variable, Pestalotia sp., Phoma sp.,
Sepedonium sp., Trichoderma koeningii, i7 viridae, Mycelia
sterilia; Cunninghamella sp., Mucor sp., Neurospora crassa,
Rhizopus nigricans, R. oryzae; Cordyceps sp., Phylacia aff.
Bomba, Xylaria polymorpha, Xylaria sp.; Auricularia
auricularia, Coprinus sp., and Lepiofasp.
*CASTLEBURY, LISA A. Systematic Botany and Mycology
Laboratory, USDA ARS, Beltsville, MD 20705 USA,
Morphological comparisons within the Tilletia (Neovossia)
barclayana complex.
Tilletia barclaycnia (Bref) Sacc. & Syd. is a complex of
several taxa, including T. horrida Tak. Recent studies suggest
that T. horrida, the rice kernel smut pathogen, is not a
member of this complex. In order to determine if teliospores
of T.horrida can be morphologically distinguished from the
other taxa, teliospores from type specimens of taxa in this
complex were examined with scanning electron and light
microscopy. All members of the complex produce brown,
globose to subglobose teliospores with exospores of pointed
to truncate curved spines, a gelatinous sheath, and
occasionally a short apiculus. Exospore ornamentation of T.
ajrekari and T. horrida is coarser and more widely spaced
when compared with that of other taxa in this complex.
Tilletia horrida teliospores range from 21.9-41.4 pm in diam.
(mean=29.0 pm). Teliospores of T. ajrekari range from 15.925.4 pm (mean=20.1 pm). Teliospores of T. barclq.cn~aand
T.pennisetitia range from 20.0-28.5 pm and 23.6-33.4 pm
(mean=24.2 and 28.7 pm), respectively. Teliospores of T.
pulcherrima and T.pulchewima var. brachiariae range from
21.1-29.5 pm and 19.7-25.8 pm (mean=25.1 and 22.5 pm),
rqspectively. While morphological characters among these
taxa intergrade, T. ajrekari and T. horrida can be
distinguished from the other taxa in this complex. The issue
of generic placement of these fungi also is discussed.
* CASTELO, GABRIEL and DEMOULJN, VINCENT, Institut
de Botanique (B22), Universite de Liege, B-4000 Liege, Belgium,
Correlation between the in vitro growth response to temperature
and the habitat of some lignicolous hngi from a Papua New
Guinea coastal forest.
In the framework of a study of. the ecology of wood-inhabiting
hngi from a tropical coastal forest of Papua New Guinea, we
have established the effect of temperature on growth in culture s f
several lignicolous fungi. The results show a good correlation
between the behaviour in culture and the characteristics of the
habitat. This is specially striking if one considers the species with
the narrowest and broadest ecological amplitude. On the one hand
a group of species (Auricularia $r mesenterica PICKS. : FR;)
PERS.,Hexagonia tenuis (HOOK.)FR., Microporus affinis (BLUME
& NEES : FR.) KUNTZE and Microporus ranthopus (FR.)K u m )
is restricted to dense vegetation cover and thus grows in an
en'vironment buffered against the temperature variations. This
group presents in culture a narrow spectrum with a well marked
growth optimum at 30" C which is the average local temperature.
The other group of species ( F l d o n j 7 m s (KLQTZSCH) RYV.,
Lentinus squarrosulus Mom., Pycnoporus sanguineus (L. : FR.)
MURR.and Trametes scabrosa (PERS.) G.CUNN.)presents a very
large ecological amplitude. Those species are encountered under
dense vegetation as well as in open habitats and are thus exposed
to large temperature variations. This group presents a growth
optimum over a wide range of temperatures.
CAVENDER NICOLE D and *CAVENDE& JAMES C.,
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, Ohio State
University, Columbus OH 43210 USA and Departmentof
Environmental and Plant Biology, Ohio University, Athens OH
45701, Dictyostelid Cellular Slime Molds of St. John, V.I.
This research project was designed to study the diversity of
cellular slime molds of St. John, V.I.. an island of 3 1 sq. km.,
65% of which is vegetationally intact as Virgin Islands National
Park. Our interest is in determining what effects area and inkular
environment have on csm diversity by comparing our data with
known csm diversities on Puerto Rico and at Tikal, Guatemala.
Soils were collected during August (hotJmoist) and December
(wadmoist) and processed for csm at Ohio University using a
soil dilution-bacterial enrichment technique. In addition to
species presence, density and frequency of occurrence were also
determined. A total of 1796 isolations, representing 16 species
were made from 20 sites in five habitats: moist and thorn forest,
agave-cactus and coastal scrub, and white mangrove. Moist
forest and agave-cactus scrub had the greatest species richness
(1 1) although densities were greater in moist forest. The
number of csm species on St. John is about !h that of Tikal but
only somewhat less thaqpuerto Rico given data presently
available.
'CHEN, CHANG, and MILLER, ORSON K. JR., Dept. of Biology,
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg VA 24061 USA, Systematic observations of
Montagnea arenaria, a gastroid desert fungus.
The objective of this project is to study the variations and potential
biological species in Maarenariacomplex. The morphological characters
were examined and attempts were made to study the mating
compatibility among collections. Single spore isolates (ssi's)were
obtained from dried herbarium specimens. Expected mating patterns
were not observed in self-crossesand the results showed an uncertain
bipolar mating system with ssi's which didn't cross with any others.
Clamps were originally formed in compatible crosses but were not
maintained in cultures and quickly disappeared. DAPl fluorescent
examination of the cultures revealed multinuclei in both ssi's and
compatible crosses which lost clamps. Nuclear staining with Safranin-0
confirmed these results. lntercross matings showed limited partial
compatibility between Africa (Namibia)and North American collections.
~olecuiarmethods were used to study the phylogenetic relationships in
the complex. Genomic DNA was extracted from cultures and old (ca
1936) herbarium specimens. The internal transcribed spacer region of
nuclear rDNA were amplified using ITS1 and ITS4 primers by PCR, and
the dsDNA products were sequenced directly and analyzed with PAUP.
The consensus tree indicated 2 groups with one group of collections
from the western deserts of the US, and the second group included
both big and small spored collections from America and Namibia. One
specimen from Namibia that was identified as Montagnea did not
belong to either of the groups but is closely related to the Agaricaceae,
while Montagnea most resembles the Coprinaceae. The relationships in
these groups are discussed.
*COLE, GARRY T.. and SESHAN. K.R., Department of
Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Ohio,
Toledo, OH 43614 USA, Invasive fungal growth in human
tissues.
~ i d albicans
a
is a common microbial component of the
human indigenous flora of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and
has apparently evolved as a successful commensal in healthy
persons. However, .this dimorphic fungus can be a lifethreatening, opportunistic pathogen in neutropenic patients,
such as individuals who undergo aggressive chemotherapy for
various clinical forms of cancer. Disseminated
(hematogenous)candidiasis which originates from an
endogenous origin (e.g., GI tract.colonization) is the focus of
this study. Transmigration of C. albicans from the lumen of
the gut to the bloodstream requires invasion of the host
mucosal and submucosal tissues by hyphal elements.
Secreted hydrolases (e.g. phospholipase) at the hyphal apex
appear to perform pivotal roles in this process. Invasive and
noninvasive, clinical strains of C. albicarts have been
identified. The latter undergo dimorphism but are unable to
establish hematogenous candidiasis, in part due to a marked
reduction in levels of phospholipase production.
Histopathological studies have shown that hyphae of the
noninvasive strain fail to penetrate the mucosal barrier of the
host. Dimorphism in C. albicans is an excellent model system
for examination of features of hyphal growth which contribute
to disease in the animal host.
*Chen, Kuei-Yu, **Chen, Zuei-Ching, and *Weng, Ying-Yen;
*Department of Biology, Chinese ~ u l f l r eUniversity, Taipei,
Taiwan; **Department of Botany, National Taiwan University,
Taipei, Taiwan; Preliminary research of fungal spores in the
library indoor environment in Yangming Shan.
A study of the concentration of fungal spores were examined in
library indoor (~hineseCulture University, Yangming Shan,
Taipei, Taiwan) from July 1995 to December 1995. The
screened area included indoor air, inside and surface of books.
The aerial spores were collected by using a Burkard's portable
air sampler for agar plates (malt extract agar and sabouraud
dextrose agar), and the dusts on books were settled directly to
MEA and SBDA. Both were cultivated in 2 5 t incubator. The
common genera of isolated fungi were Aspergillus, Penicillium,
Cladosporium, Rhizoctonia, pink yeast, white yeast,
Alternaria, Fusarium. The highest number of fungal colonies
per plate were found on the surface of books, then in the air.
*COLLINS, KELLY P.. RETNOWATI, ATIK, DESJARDIN,
DENNIS E.. and HORAK, EGON, Dept. of Biology, San
Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA, and
Geobotanisches Institut ETH. Zurich, Switzerland. New and
interesting agarics from Java and Bali.
Prior to our research to document the diversity of Agaricales in
Java and Bali, limited historical data were published on
Indonesian agarics. In January 1998, we collected in primary
forests at four different sites in Java and Bali. Because of a severe
drought effecting most of southeast Asia, the monsoon season
was delayed by two months and consequently. we were early in
the collecting season. Nonetheless, our first expedition to the
region yielded over 300 specimens representing over 250 species,
primarily represented by white-spored saprotrophic taxa. We will
present data on some of the more interesting species belonging to
the genera Favolaschia, Filoboletus, Marasmius, Micropsalliota,
and Vanromburghia.
'COLON-GARAY, JULISSA,RIVERA-VARGAS,LYDIA
Dept. of Crop Protection, University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
Campus, Mayaguez, P.R. 0068 1-9030. Monosporic variatibn
of CoNetotrichumgloeosporioides isolated from mango,
Mangifera indica.
*CORTES, BLANCA R., KUHN, DAVID N. and RAMEAU,
REJANE, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida
International University, Miami, Florida 33 199 USA, A
Comparison and Time Course of Inheritance of Nuclear Markers
in Heterokaryons formed by Hyphal Anastomosis and Protoplast
Fusion in Fusarium
Mango Fruits (var. Davis Haden, Keitt and Palmer) showing
anthracnose lesions were collected at the Alzamora Farm of
the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus. Isolates of
C. gloeosporioides were obtained from anthracnose lesions
and were used to obtain 98 monosporic cultures. All isolates
were grown in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Five different
groups were identify based on macroscopic characteristics.
Differences in micelial color, colony development and conidial
production were found in culture. Eight random isolates were
examined to determine conidia and appresoria morphology and
size. Conidial morphology varies, the majority of them were
cylindrical with obtuse ends, where other were ellipsoid with
round apex and narrow truncate base. Hyaline conidia were
produced in a mucilaginous masses of a orange-yellowish
color in PDA. Conidial size range from 4.46 to 5.48 x 17.75 to
20.41 pm. Melanized appresoria were either lobed or round,
measuring 8.9 x 10.2 pm. All macro and microscopic
characteristics correspond to C. gloeosporioides.
Pathogenicity tests performed in vitro showed that all isolates
evaluated were pathogenic. Experiment on mutagenesis of
pathogenic isolates are in progress to obtain hypovirulent or
avirulent isolates. These isolates will be used in cross
protection of mango against C. gloeosporioides.
Parasexuality requires the initial formation of heterokaryons
followed by karyogamy and haploidization. Previously, we have
observed karyogamy within two weeks in heterokaryons formed
by hyphal anastomosis. Heterokaryons can be formed in
Fusarium by hyphal anastomosis between vegetatively compatible
strains. Infrequently, we have also observed heterokaryon
formation by hyphal anastomosis between strains in different
vegetative compatibility groups (VCG). Such heterokaryons are
morphologically indistinguishablefiom those formed within a
VCG. Heterokaryons can theoretically be formed between any
two strains by fusion of protoplasts. We have used a battery of
genetic and molecular markers including auxotrophy, allozymes,
electrophoretic karyotyping and amplified fragment length
polyrnorphisms (AFLP) to investigate the formation of intra- and
inter-VCG heterokaryons by both hyphal anastomosis and
protoplast fusion. In addition, we have attempted to establish
when karyogamy occurs in heterokaryons formed by protoplast
fusion. Funded by NIGMS/NM grant number GM08205
COSTA, CYNTHIA c.', CAVALCANTI, UIDED.M.', *MAIA,
LEONOR c.' and PAIVA, LAURA M2. 'Depto. de Biologia,
UFRPE; 'Depto. Micologia, CCB, UFPE. 50670 -420 Recife, PE,
BRASIL. Effect of d.uscuiar mycorrhizal fungi on "yellow"
passion fruit seedlings cultivated on soils with different P levels.
'COSTANZO, N., and WIDISEN, P. Biology Department,
Concordia University, 1455 DeMaisomeuve Bvd. West, Montreal,
Qudbec, H3G 1M8,Canada, The effects of ozone on the
mycorrhizae of sugar maple (& saccharurn Marsh.).
Sugar maples, like most plants, are dependent on mycorrhizae for
their survival in the ecosystem. In sugar maples, the mycorrhiza is
a typical Earis series vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza,
characterized by an extensive system of hyphal coils, from which
the arbuscules are derived. Both inter- and intra-cellular vesicles
are also produced.
Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of AMF
inoculation on growth of passion fruit. It consisted of a factorial
arrangement of 2 (methyl bromite fiunigated or n~nfbmigated
soils) X 3 (P levels: 4 p p 4 11ppm or 30ppm) X4 (seedlings
noninoculated or inoculated with Scutellopra heterogama or
Gigaspora albida or a mixture of G. albida + S. heterogama +
Gigaspora margarita + Glomus clarum) X3 (replicates). The
inoculum consisted of 100 sporedroot plant. Ten days after
inoculation the seedlings were transfered to plastic bags with 2 K
of sterilized or nonsterilized soil amended with P. After 70 days,
plants inoculated and grown on sterilized soils with 4 ppm of P,
had the highest increase on height (339%) and dry shoot weight
(479%), while plants fertilized with 11 ppm of P increased 30,2%
on height, and 459% on shoot dry weight. On sterilized soils,
AMF inoculation enhanced height (59,3%), shoot dry weight
(29,8%), shoot diameter (29,7%), leaf number (30,1%) and
number of claspers (40,8%). The percentage of root colonization
and spores density on the rhizosphere were higher at all P levels
on plants cultivated on hmigated soils. Inoculation with mixed
inoculum or single species enhanced similarly growth of passion
fruit in all treatments. The time for production of passion h i t
seedlings was reduced when they were inoculated with AMF on
sterilized soil added of 4 ppm of P or without inoculation and
amended with 11 ppm or 30 ppm of P.
We monitored the mycorrhizal system of 2 year old maple
seedlings that had been grown outdoors in open-topped chambers
in an atmosphere contwng 0.50, 100, 150, 200 or 300 ppb of
ozone for a single growing season to determine whether the
mycorrhizal fingus responded to the ozone stress that the plants
were exposed to. Not only was the overall mycorrhizal
colonization recorded, but the production of arbuscules, coils and
vesicles were separately recorded.
15
Our data clearly demonstrate that as ozone levels increase,
mycorrhizal colonization decreases. This could be seen even at the
lowest level of ozone. The decline in numbers of arbuscules with
increasing ozone concentratidn was much steeper than the decline
in numbers of coils or vesicles, suggesting that there was a
morphological shift taking place in the fungus as the levels of
stress increased. It is possible that such a shift could have negative
effects on the plants, due to a reduced efficiency of the mutualism.
Such a shift could lead to a negative feedback on the overall health
of the plants as stress increases.
*Couch, Brett C., Kohn, Linda M.. Botany Department,
University of Toronto. Mississauga Ont. L5L 1C6. Gene
phylogeny of mycelial compatibility groups in Scleroti~rm
cepivonrm population samples.
S. cepivo~wmis the causal agent of white rot of Allitrm. sp. and
a major problem for onion growers worldwide. Reproduction is
believed to occur solely by means of small, asexually produced
sclerotia. The production of spennatia by cultures of the fungus
and the fact that a close relative, Sclerotirlia sclerotionrm, does
undergo a sexual cycle indicate that a sexual cycle likely
occurred at one time and may 'still occur in some populations.
The adaptation to'hosts in the genus Allilrm by the ancestor of
S. ceph~onrm,may have been responsible for the divergence of
S. cepivor7rm from its relative, Sclerotirtia sclerotionrm. The
colonization of a new host by one or a few founding individuals
would have resulted in a severe genetic bottleneck.
Dissemination of the hngus worldwide through the movement
of infected plant material and infested soil has also likely resulted
in further genetic bottlenecks. We are testing the assumptions
that populations of S. cepivorlrm should have little genetic
diversity and isolates from different populations are likely to be
closely related. Mycelial compatibility groups (MCG's) have
been used as one method of identifiing genetic individuals of S.
cepivonrm. Predominantly asexual reproduction amplifies these
genotypes in clonal lineages. We have assessed the relatedness
of these clones by phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequence
polymorphisms at six loci, as well as one restriction fragment
length polymorphism.
CROUS, PEDRO W., Department of Plant Pathology, University
of Stellenbosch, P. Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa,
Mycology and its synergism with plant pathology in southern
Africa.
In the developing countries of southern Africa, there are many
diverse agricultural and forestry crops, the cultivation of which is
severely hampered by a wide range of disease causing organisms.
Due to the relatively few plant pathologists, and even fewer
mycologists, there are frequently many crops and diseases that
simply can not be dealt with. In the present climate of limited
economic growth and increasing government pressure for
justification of research, mycology has moved towards a more
symbiotic relationship with plant pathology. Correct disease
diagnosis is essential for plant pathologists striving to combat
plant disease. Mycologists who are harnessing the power of
molecular genetics to provide rapid methods of identification have
thus become an integral part of all disease control programs.
Several countries and organizations have recently.signed bilateral
research agreements with the South African Foundation of
Research Development. These agreements support international
collaboration via bilateral finding for research programs, postdoctoral studies and student training, but always center around the
development of manpower and the justification of research.
Several possibilities do thus exist for North American and
international members to collaborate and secure funding with
MSA members from African countries. Such programs would not
only benefit cooperating members, but would .also strengthen
mycology as science in developing countries.
*CROAN, SUKI C . and BURDSALL, HAROLD
H., USDA-Forest Service, Forest
Products Laboratory, Madison, WI
53705-2398 U.S.A.,
Lyophilization of
tropical wood-inhabiting
basidiomycotina.
The objective of this study is to
develop a method to preserve mycelial
isolates of tropical wood-inhabiting
basidiomycotina in a viable state
without morphological, physiological or
biochemical changes. The initial
cooling rates and the effect of the
lyoprotectants on the viability of
lyophilized cultures of tropical
mycelial isolates are analyzed. The
tropical vegetative hyphal forming
basidiomycetous fungi exhibited no
significant changes in growth rates,
morphlogical characterietics or
enzymatic activities after
lyophilization. These results indicate
that tropical vegetative hyphal forming
isolates can survive lyophilization and
maintain viability in a lyophilized
state.
*CZEDERPILTZ, DANIEL L. LINDNER, and STANOSZ
GLEN R., Dept. of Plant Pathology, UW-Madison. Madison WI
53706 USA, and BURDSALL, HAROLD H.. JR..Center for
Forest Mycology Research, Forest Products Laboratory. USDA
FS, Madison WI 53705 USA, Species richness of woodinhabiting polyporoid and corticioid fruiting bodies in .northern
hardwood stands with differing management histories.
Fruiting bodies of wood-inhabiting polyporoid and corticioid
fungi were sampled in 13 northern hardwood stands in northern
WI and upper peninsula MI during the summer of 1996. Five
stands were classified as old-growth stands (OGS) that had never
been managed, five were uneven-aged stands WAS) that had been
selectively managed, and three were even-aged stands (EAS) that
had naturally regenerated after clear-cutting in the early 1900's.
Stands were controlled for cover type, fragmentation, habitat type,
and soil type. A randomly located plot 60m x lOOm was
constructed in each stand and divided into 240 5m x 5m quadrats.
Plots were sampled in early and late summer, with half the
quadrats being sampled during each visit. All large wood (>I5 cm
dia) in the plots was examined for fruiting srructures, while small
wood (5 15 cm dia) was examined in half the quadrats of each
plot. Data from the late summer sampling period were analyzed
using a randomized complete block design, where we blocked by
date of sampling. Polypore species richness varied from 11 to 26
species of fruiting bodies per plot, with means of 21.4, 19.8, and
14 (p-0.01) for OGS, UAS, and EAS, respectively. Corticioid
species richness varied from 1 1 to 34, with mean values of 24.6,
22.6, and 19.3 (p=0.7).'A number of seldom reported species
encountered in the old-growth, such as Cristinia mucida and
Hypochnicium detriticwn, along with species such as
Cystosterewn murraii that were observed almost exclusively on
large diameter debris, may be useful indicators of stands with oldgrowth forest characteristics.
DE LEON, RUTH', BATTICK. CLEVE', SANCHEZ, JOSE
E.~,LEAL, HERMIL04, MARTINEZ, DANIEL^, MIGNUCCI,
JULIA s .and
~ Others. 7 a calle 33-26 zona 7 Jardines de Tikal
I1 Guatemala, Guatemala. Scientific Research Council,
P.O.Box 350, Kingston 6, Jamaica, W.I. El Colegio de la
Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Apdo. Postal 36, Tapachula,
Chiapas, Mexico. Dept. Biotechnology and Food Science,
Faculty of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 Mexico DF. College of
Postgraduates in Agricultural Sciences, Mushroom Biotechnology, Apartado Postal 701, Puebla 72001, Puebla, M6xico. Dept
of Crop Protection, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, PR
00680 . ROUND-TABLE: Mushroom Cultivation, teaching and
extension in the American tropics.
'
Although mushroom cultivation was introduced into the American tropics as early as 1933, its importance has increased quite
rapidly in the past three decades. Some countries are still just
beginning to grow mushrooms. Concurrent with the increase in
quantities of mushrooms produced, there has been an increase in
the number of species cultivated. With the increase in importance there has been an increasing need to teach mushroom
growers new and better techniques. AU countries must meet the
need to transfer technology from researchers to farmers. Some
must begin by teaching basics, others how to improve quality
and quantity. Even for the same species, technology must vary
from place to place, in order to adjust to climate and available
substrates. Some educational organizations may produce spawn
(vegetative propagules) for their constituents, and develop a
supplier-client as well as a teacher-student relationship. Workers
f3om managers and growers down to pickers need to understand
how they can best perform their job. Many levels of education
may be available from TV and secondary schools, to post graduate schools.
*DePRIEST. PAULA T., and. STENROOS, SOILI,
Department of Botany, NHB- 166. National Museum of
Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC
20560 USA, Clarification of the generic status of the
reindeer lichens, Cladina Nyl. (Cladoniaceae, Lecanorales).
The diverse and highly conspicuous lichens in the genera
Cladonia and Cladina are ecologically and economically
important. As a result, systematic studies of these genera
are relatively well developed compared to that of many
other lichen groups; they have been the subject of regional
revisions and small systematic studies, and examined as
model systems for chemical evolution, morphogenetic
hypotheses, and artificial lichenization. However, the
generic status of the segregate Cladina, the reindeer
lichens, is still contested. The latest Dictionary of the
Fungi includes Cladina in the genus Cladonia, although
half of the contemporary regional floras treat it as a
separate genus. We are using rigorous phylogenetic
analyses of the nucleotide sequences from multiple genes to
resolve whether the Cludinas and Cladonias should be
recognized as different genera, or members of a single
genus. We will present phylogenetic hypotheses produced
from the nucleotide sequences of nuclear small subunit
ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) that place Cladina with
Cladonia in the family Cladoniaceae, but excluding other
genera like Cladia and Gymnodennu. Additionally, we
will present preliminary analyses of sequences from more
variable genes, nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacers
(ITS), mitochondrial SSU rDNA, and nuclear single copy
genes, to predict the relationships among different sections
within Cladonia that have been linked to Cladina.
*DE LEON, RUTH', SANCHEZ.
JOSB
E . ~ , LEAL,
HER MI LO^, AND ESTRADA, ,4I2TURO4. ' 7a. calle 33-26
zona 7 Jardines de Tikal I1 Guatemala, Guatemala El Colegio
de la Frontera Sur (ECOSUR), Apdo. Postal 36, 'kpachula,
Chiapas, Mexico. Dept. Biotechnology and Food Science,
Faculty of Chemistry, UNAM, 04510 MBxico DF. Lab. de
Micologia, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Biologicas,
Univ. de Tlaxcala, Ixtacuixtala, 90120 Mexico. The use of
casing layer for the cultivation of Volvariella volvacea on wheat
straw.
Cultivation of V volvacea was initiated more than 200 years ago
in China, but it was not until 1987 that the use of cotton waste to
obtain higher yields was reported. This material is abundant only
in specific regions and is generally expensive. Rice straw and
other wastes were considered as an alternative option. In this
experiment the following substrates were tested using soil as the
casing layer: wheat straw, fermented and unfermented; wheat
straw with urea, fermented and unfermented. A set of treatments
was esqiblished without the casing layer as control. The results
(g dry mushrooms/100 g dry substrate) were as follows: Unfermented wheat straw without casing layer 0.19; with casing layer
0.69. Fermented wheat straw without casing layer 0.33; with
casing layer 0.97. Unfermented wheat straw with urea without
casing layer 0.36; with casing layer 0.97. fermented wheat straw
with urea without casing layer 0.13; with casing layer 0.38.
These results show that the use of the casing layer for the cultivation of V. volvaceae is beneficial since yields increased more
than 100% in respect to the controL This may be due to the existing microorganisms in the soil which encourage the development
of V. volvaceae, the restricted water evaporation from the substrate and the retention of CO, which stimulates growth.
*DESJARDM, DENNIS E.. and HORAK. EGON, Dept. of
Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA
94132. USA, and Geobotanisches Institut ETH, Zurich,
Switzerland, Agaricales of Indonesia.
We have just initiated a four year project to document the
Agaricales of Indonesia. focusing on the islands of Java and Bali.
Indonesia is one of the world's richest areas for biodiversity,
possessing approx. 17% of the total number of recorded species
in the world. The country spans two biogeographic zones and
encompasses at least 47 distinct natural ecosystems. Glaringly
absent from all published accounts of Indonesian biodiversity are
estimates of fungal diversity. Literature on the fungi of Java and
Bali reports 353 species of Agaricales belonging to 92 genera,
although we suspect that the actual number of Agaricales from the
region is closer to 700 species, approx. 50% of which may be
new to science. We will present an overview of the project, a
review of the historical data, and data from our first expedition
(January 1998) to Mt. Gede Pangrango National Park (Cibodas).
Mt. Halimun National Park, and Bogor Botanical Gardens in
western Java, and the areas surrounding Bedugal and,Lake
Tamblingan in central Bali.
DIXIT, RAHUL, BASILIERE, JENNIFER, and * WUBAH,
DANIEL A., Department of Biological Sciences, Towson
LJniversity, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252 USA. Effect
of temperature and pH on chemoattraction of Neocallimastix
sp. zoospores to ferulic acid and cinnamic acid.
The mechanism by which the zoospores of rurnen fungi are
attracted to lignified tissues of plant fiber in the gastrointestinal
tract is not known. However, recently we demonstrated that
zoospores of Neocallimastix sp. are attracted differentially to
selected phenolic acids found in lignin such as cinnamic acid,
ferulic acid and coumaric acid. The concentration at which
maximum attraction occurred varied for each of these phenolic
acids. Within the rurnen, temperature and pH are two other
factors that can influence the degradative activities of
nficroorganisms. The objective of this study was to examine
the effect of temperature and pH on the chemoattraction of
~eocallimastixsp. zoospores to ferulic acid and cinnamic acid.
The peak concentration for each of the phenolic acids was used
to evaluate chemotaxis at 30°C, 35"C, 39°C and 42°C and pHs
of 5.5,6.0,6.5 and 7.0. Chemotactic response was expressed as
relative taxis response (RTR). The temperature at which
maximum chemoattraction occurred for both phenolic acids
was 3g°C, but the maximum RTR occurred at 6.0 and 6.5,
respectively for cinnamic acid and ferulic acid. The peak RTR
for the cinnamic acid was five times that of ferulic acid. Further
experiments are being done to determine the effect of
temperature on different phenolic acids.
D. DREHMEL*, J.-M. MONCALVO, AND R.
VILGALYS. Department of Botany. Duke University,
Durham NC 27708 U.S.A. Molecular phylogeny of
Amanita: implications for taxonomy and character evolution
Phylogenetic relationships in the genus A m i t a were
investigated usinn molecular evidence from the nuclearencodd large subunit (nuc-LSU) and rnitochondrial small
subunit (mt-SSU) ribosomal DNA. More than thlrty
exemplar taxa primarily from North Carolina and Virginia
were selected to represent the major sections from the current
classifications of Sinaer (9 sect.) and Jenkins 16 sect.).
Separate and combingd phylogenetic analyses were
wrformed using.PAUP. Both nuclear and rnitochondrial
hata sets are co&istent,with the taxonomic distinction of
subgenera Amanita and Lepidella. Within subgenus
Amanita, monophyly could be demonstrated for sections
,Amanita and Vaginatae . Within subgenus Lepidella, our
data support monophyly of sections Validae. Mappae ,
Phalloideae, and Amidella sensu Bas. Sequences of some
exemplar taxa from subgenus Lepidella were more highly
divergent and formed a section with low bootstrap support.
The phyogenetic relationships thus determined are compared
to information known about characters within Antariita.
*DOBRANIC, JASON K., and ZAK, JOHN C., Ecology Program,
Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79416 USA. Fungal functional
diversity along an elevational gradient in the Chihuahuan desert.
Spatial and seasonal differences in functional diversity of fungi
associated with decomposing litter along an elevational gradient in
Big Bend National Park are currently being assessed. A new
method using a modification of the BIOLOG procedure has been
developed that allows a multivariate approach to examine aspects of
fungal functional diversity. The Pine Canyon Watershed at Big
Bend National Park was chosen as the research site in conjunction
with the long-term project that has been initiated at this location.
The watershed extends from the central Chisos Mountains in an
easterly direction for 12 miles and covers approximately 30 square
miles. This area encompasses five different vegetative zones,
including: 1) a high elevation site, dominated by Oak and Pinyon
Pine, 2) an Oak-Juniper zone; 3) an upland Sotol grassland
dominated by Chino grama; 4) a lowland creosotebush bajada, and
5) a lowland Chihuahuan desert scrub. Two lOOrn by 30m belt
transects have been established in each of the biorne types.
Lecheguilla leaves (Agave lecheguilla)were placed along each
transect to assess fungal functional diversity, taxonomic diversity,
C02 evolution, and decomposition rates after six months. Functional
diversity was highest in the Sotol grassland and the Oak-Juniper
zones. Decomposition was greatest in the Oak-Juniper zone,
although C02 evolution was least. The ability to directly link fungal
functional diversity, species richness, and activity should provide
greater insight into microbial roles in ecosystem functioning. The
BIOLOG system provides a good technique for determining
microbial functional diversity and was used as a model to develop a
system applicable for evaluating fungal functional diversity.
'DUGUAY, KATHLEEN J., KLIRONOMOS, JOHN N., Fungal
and Soil Ecology Lab (FASEL), Department of Botany, University
of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada, Direct and indirect
effects of elevated W - B radiation on the decomposing and
competitive abilities of saprophytic fungi:
UV-B radiation has been shown to negatively affect the rate of litter
decomposition. However, it is unclear if this is a result of the fungi
being directly affected, or a result of changes in substrate quality
(indirect effect). The objective of this research is to clarify whether
UV-B radiation directly or indirectly affects fungi found on
dedaying canola (Brassica napus) litter. The experiment was set up
as a 2 x 2 factorial design with conditions under which the canola
was grown as the first factor (elevated or no W - B ) and conditions
under which the canola was decomposed as the second factor
(elevated or no W-B). One million spores of each of Epicoccum
purpurascens and Trichoderma sp. were inoculated into glass
microcosms containing silica quartz sand and 20 pieces of litter.
After 60 days, mass loss and fungal respiration were measured.
Results show that W - B slowed the decomposition rate of canola
and further illustrated that direct W - B effects are stronger than
i n d i c t effects. At present, we are attempting to determine whether
colonization rates and competitive abilities differ among
dematiaceous and hyaline fungi. It is expected that dematiaceous
fungi will be less affected by W - B as a result of their
pigmentation, and will thus increase their competitive abilities
under such conditions.
*DUNCAN, RUSSELZ. A. Jr., WHITE,JAMES F. Jr., REDDY,
PONAKA V., Department of Plant Pathology, Cook.
College, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901,
and RICHARDSON, M1CHAEL.D.. D e p a r t m e n t of
Horticulture, University of Arkansas, Fcryettville, AR 72701,
Morphological features of a n e w species of Claviceps
ussociated with SpartLna altemiflora .
The fungus Clarviceps pupurea is associated with m a n y
grass species including the grasses of the genera Festuqa
and Spartina. A Claviceps associated with Spartina
altemiflora exhibits characteristics which differentiate it
from the Clcrvjcepspurpurea associated with the Festuca
species. The Spartina Claviceps produces sclerotia that
a r e large and posses the capacity to float; while sclerotia
of the Claviceps of Festuca a r e m u c h smaller and
consistently sink in fresh and salt w a t e r (1%). The
relatively large sclerotial size and lower density of t h e
S ' a Claviceps is better suited for flocrtcrtion dispersal
of sclerotia. Compcnisons of sclerotial alkaloids were
conducted to show chemical differences. Ribosomal DNA
sequences will be obtained and compared in an attempt
to detect evolutionary differences between these similar
a p m g orgcmisms. A morphological study will be
conducted during a s c o m a t a development of both
Sparfina and Festuca associated Claviceps. These
observcrtions of CIavjcepspupurea on two hosts suggest
niche adaptation, ecological divergence of the species
and t h e need for closer investigation of Claviceps
Pupuea.
TERNANDEZ, FERNANDO A., WHNDORF, SABINE
M., and LUTZONI, FRANCOIS M., Department of Botany,
The Field Museum, Chicago, IL 60605-2496. Phylogenetic
relationships in the genus Chaetosphaeria.
The pyrenomycetous genus Chaetosphaeria encompasses 101
species, potentially including 188 species currently placed
under its synonym, Zigndella. The systematics of this genus is
particularly challenging because despite the simple
morphology of the teleomorphs, the anamorphs show a wide
range of morphological variation. This has led to the use of
characters of the anamorph to circumscribe species within the
genus. Phylogenetic relationships among 20 species of
Chaetosphaeria were inferred from sequence data of the
nuclear large-subunit ribosomal DNA. Sequences of the
related genus Melanochaeta,were also included. Phylogenetic
analyses show that these taxa form a strongly supported
monophyletic group. Internal clades were concordant with
groupings based on anamorphs, except for those containing
t F a with Chloridium and Codinaea anamorphs. These
analyses also show that Melanochaeta aotearoae and M.
hemipsila are nested within the Chaetosphaeria clade and
closely related to C. ovoidea and C. vermicularioides. This
relationship is also corroborated by analysis of ITS sequence
data. Other taxa identified as possible Melanochaeta species
with dark-colored ascospores appear closely related to
Chaetosphaeria species with hyaline ascospores. Therefore
ascospore coloration appears to be homoplasious in the genus,
indicating that brown-spored species are probably
polyphyletic. Implications of these findings in the taxonomic
circumscription of the genus will be discussed.
ELHAGE, N m ,and *CLARK, JIM, School of
Biological Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
40506 USA, Biosystematics of the Dia'ymium squamulosum
species complex.
Thirty-three isolates of the vaiiable Dia'ymium squamulosum
morphospecies were subjected to morphological,
reproductive, and isozyme studies. A phylogenetic tree
based on 8 isozymes did not correlate well (r = 0.1 1) with
one based on 15 morphological traits. However, 4 of the
traits (stalk color, stalk length, peridial lime, and plasmodia1
color) did display strong to moderate (stalk length)
correlations to the two major isozyrne tree branches (taxa).
One taxon consisted mainly of isolates with short white to
tan stalks, sparse peridial lime and cream colored plasmodia,
while the other taxon consisted mostly of isolates having
longer white stalks, heavier peridial lime and white colored
plasmodia. In terms of reproductive Systems, the isolates of
the first' taxon were all nonheterothallicand sometimes
clonal (the plasmodia fused), while the isolates of the second
taxon were both nonheterothallicand heterothallic. This
second taxon contained three different mating series
(biological species) which were interspersed, along with the
nonheterothallic isolates, throughout the phylogentic tree and
were not segregated out into distinct clusters (a species
complex).
*FISHER, KAREN E. and ROBERSON, ROBERT
W., Departmeni of Plant Biology, Box 871601,
Arizona State University, Tempe AZ 85287 USA, The
development of cleavage membranes during zoospore
formation in Allomyces macrogynus.
Allomyces macrogyms zoosporangia are composed of a
multinucleate protoplast contained within a cell wall. During
msporogenesis, membranes develop which m o u n d the nuclei
and cleave the cytoplasm into individual zoospores, a process
which occurs in approximately 40 to 45 minutes. The
development of cleavage membranes has been documented using
standard epifluoresence and laser scanning confocal microscopy in
living zoosporangia stained with the lipophilic styq4 dye, FM 464. During initial stages of zoospore formation, FM 4-64 staining
was observed only a! the.plasma membrane. Within 5 to 10
minutes, numerous sites of intense fluorescence were detected
along the plasma membrane. From these regions, membranous
element$developed and elongated into the sporangial cortex.
Although initially chaotic and disconnected, cleavage membranes
eventually converged, f o h g an elaborate network of
interconnected membrane sheets which divided the cytoplasm into
hexagonally shaped zoospore initials. Mechanisms of membrane
synthesis and regulation of the cleavage plane orientation will be
discussed.
'FRDEDERS, ELIZABETH M., SWANN, ERIC C., and
GAMBOA, MIGUEL A., *BAYMAN, PAUL, Departmento
de Biologia, Universidad de Puerto Rico, POBox 23360.
San Juan, PR 00931, Puerto Rico, Endophytic fungal
communities in a tropical timber tree.
McLAUGHLIN, DAVID J., 'Dept. of Biology,
University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, WI
53818 USA and Dept. of Plant Biology, University of
Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108 USA,
Will the real Platygloeales please stand up?
Mature leaves fkom Guarea guidonia (Meliaceae) trees were
screened for identifying their endophytic fingal communities.
Two populations fiom opposite sides of the Luquillo
Mountains, Puerto Rico, were selected as sampling sites.
Over 35 hngal morphospecies were found, with Phomoysis,
Colletotrichum and Xyloia being the most abundant genera.
respectively. Endophytic community composition appeared
to be more similar among individuals of the same species,
independent of location, than among individuals of different
species fiom the same site. The data supported previous
studies which state that the smaller the sampling unit, the
higher the probability of approaching real diversity values of
endophytic fungal communities.
Platygloeales hit the systematic stage in 1990 in a poorly
conceived and bloated role to portray a multitude of
misfit simple-septate basidiomycetes. Others before her
have attempted this same role under the stage names
of Auriculariaceae and Cystobasidiaceae, but their
renditions too left the audience aghast. After a
vigorous regime of sectioning (transmission electron
microscopy) and sequencing (large subunit rDNA),
Platygloeales has shed her disarray and now appears in
a new, slimmer and more satisfying role as the sister
taxon to the rusts. Her ordinal caste includes, to date,
Platygloea disciformis, Insolibasidium deformans,
Herpobasidium filicinum, Jola spp., and Eocronartium
muscicola. Auditions are being held for additional
members to the troupe.
*GAMS, WALTER, SCHROERS, HANS-JOSEF, Centraalbureau voor Schimrnelcultures. P.O. Box 273, 3740 AG Baarn,
Netherlands, and O'DONNELL. KERRY. Microbial h-operties
Research, National Center for Agriculhral Utilization
Research, Agricultural Research Service, United States
Department of Agriculture, Peoria, Illinois 61604, USA.
Hyphomycete genera with solitary phialoconidia.
+GEISER, DAVID M., +FRISVAD, JENS C.and TAYLOR,
JOHN W, D~~~~~~ of plant and ~ i ~ ~~ ~ i b ~~i ~l l ~ n ~
of California, Berkeley, CA 94720and tDeparment of
Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby,
Denmark. Evolutionary patterns in Aspergillus section Fumigat,
inferred from partial beta-tubulin and hydrophobin DNA
sequences.
Species of Aphanocladium, Sibirina and Verticimonosporium
comprise phialidic hyphomycetes that produce only single
conidia from a conidiogenous locus. Sibirina was merged by
Rogerson & Samuels with Cladobotryum, both applying to
Hypomyces anamorphs; a new species is described. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the type species of Aphanocladium,
A. album, is nested within the Nectria-Hypocrea clade of the
Hypocreales along with the new Cladobotryum obclavaum and
Verticimonosporium spp. A group of isolates obtained by M.
Christensen from soil of native Artemisia tridentata (sagebush)
grassland in Wyoming and by S. Abduilah from desert soil,
Iraq, is compared to these genera and classified as a fourth
genus, Stanjemonium, honouring Stan J. Hughes. The three
newly described species (+ one new comb.) of Stanjemonium
form a strongly supported clade with Emericellopsis, a genus
that recently has been shown to have hypocrealean affinities.
Numerous conidiogenous cells or denticles are scattered
along the cells of aerial hyphae in Aphanocladiurn and Stanjemonium, very rapidly collapsing in the former, somewhat
more persistent in the latter. In Cladobotrywn-Sibirina and Verticimonosporiwn the conidiogenous cells are discrete in terminal
and intercalary whorls. The phialides of the latter are particularly swollen. The newly described species and the phylogenetic relationship of the genera involved are discussed.
Members of Aspergillus section Fumigati are important animal
pathogens and food contaminants. There is considerable variation
among the 16 currently recognized species in this section,
particularly in ,heir mating systems: five are known to be strictly
mitosporic, nine are homothallic, and two are heterothallic.
Phylogenetic relationships were inferred among members of
Aspergillus section Fumigati based on partial DNA sequences from
the benA beta-tubulin and rodA hydrophobin genes. Aspergillus
clavatus was chosen as an outgroup. The two gene regions
provided nearly equal numbers of phylogenetically informative
nucleotide characters. The rodA region possessed a considerably
higher level of inferred amino acid variation than the benA region.
The results of a partition homogeneity test showed that the benA
and rodA data sets were not in significant conflict, and the
topologies of the most parsimonious trees for the two data sets
differed only in branches that were not strongly supported by
bootstrapping. The data sets in combination showed that
morphological characters used in taxonomy were not strongly
correlated with phylogeny. Mixed inter-relationships were found
among strictly mitotic, homothallic (selfmg and outcrossing) and
heterothallic (obligately outcrossing) taxa, suggesting multiple
independent losses of the Neosartorya sexual state and possible
derivation of heterothallism from homothallism through loss of
self-compatibility. The food spoiling species Neosartoryafischeri
was identified as the closest known meiotic relative to the
cosmopolitan species most often implicated in human aspergillosis:
Aspergillusfmigatus.
20
~ i,
'GERNANDT, D. S., PLATT, J. L., STONE, J. K., SPATAFORA, J.
W., Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Ore8011State
University, Corvallis, OR 97331-2902 USA, HOLST-JENSEN, A,
Division of Botany and Plant Physiology, Department of Biology,
University of Oslo, 0316 Oslo, NORWAY, KOHN, L. M., Department
of Botany, University of Toronto, Erindale Campus, Mississauga,
Ontario, WL, 1C6, CANADA, A phylogenetic reconstruction of
inoperculate discomycetes inferred h m partial small subunit rDNA
sequences.
As a first step to integrate a growing sequence database of a broad
sampling of genera and families of inoperculate discomycetes into a
unified ascomycete phylogeny, partial sequences from the nuclear
encoded small subunit from representatives of 21 families of
discomycetes, as well as from other major ascomycete lineages were
examined. Particular questions of interest are monophyly of
inoperculate discomycetes, systematic relationships among genera and
families, and phylogenetic distribution of lichenired taxa Neighbor
joining analysis identified a single lineage comprised of representatives
from 11 families of inoperculate discomycetes. Families in this lineage
included Cyttariaceae, Dermateaceae, Hemiphacidiaceae,
Hymenoscyphaceae, Icmadophilaceae, Leotiaceae, Loramycetaceae,
Phacidiaceae, Rhytismataceae, Sclerotiniaceae, and Vibrisseaceae.
Sampling within familieswas uneven, but clades comprised of three or
more genera were identified for Hemiphacidiaceae, Icmadophilaceae,
Rhytisrnataeae, and Sclerotiniaceae,by both distance and parsimony
methods, Several inoperculategenera with historically problematic
familial placement o&rred in the inoperculate clade,-buttheir
relationship to other families was uncertain. These genera included
Cudonia, ~~claneusma,
Darkera, Gremmeniella,Mihula,
Naemacyclus,Piceomphale, and Spathularia.
*GIESER, PAUL and RIZZO, DAVE, Plant Pathology Dept,
University of California, Davis. CA 95616 USA, Evolution within
'the Phellinus gilvuslP. senex complex.
Evolutionary relationships were investigated for species within the
Phellinus gilvuslP. senex complex (Hymenochaetaceae,
Basidiomycota), a group of wood decay fungi common to tropical
and temperate zones. For worldwide collections of P. gilvus, P.
senex, P. torulosus, and P. wahlbergii, we analyzed nuclear and
mitochondria1loci and phenotypic characters (macroscopic and
microscopic morphology, and ecological habit). The data were
subjected to phylogenetic analyses (neighbor-joining, maximum
parsimony and maximum likelihood methods) to test hypotheses
of species and character evolution. Our results group all P. gilvus
specimens into a single well supported clade with P. senex, P.
torulosw and P. wahlbergii forming a separate, well supported
sister clade. This grouping is supported by ecological observations
of host relationships, physiological characters (e.g., wood decay),
and micro-morphological characters (e.g., skeletal hyphae).
Phellinus gilvus, however, exhibits considerable morphological
i n t r a s r n i c variation, while little morphological variability is
apparent h o n g the different species of the P. senex clade. In
contrast, genotypic variation is greater among the species of the P.
senex group than within P. gilvus. Phellinus gilvus does,
however, show more genotypic variability than observed in other
fungi in which large populations have been analyzed (e.g.,
Hererobasidion annosum). We have also examined
biogeographical hypotheses of species evolution. For example,
several geographical lineages (N. a d S. America, Africa, N.
Asia, and SE Asia) have been delineated within P. gilvus, with
overlap of two distinct lineages in Asia; these data support the idea
of P. gilvus as an ancient lineage. Speciation patterns for the P.
senex group are also discussed.
*GERNANDT,DAVID S., STONE, JEFFREY K., Department of
Botany and Plant Pathology, Cordley Hall 2082, Oregon State
University, Corvallis, Oregon 9733 1-2902 USA, Analysis of rDNA
places the nematode parasite, Drechmeria coniospora, in
Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales)
The nematode parasite, Drechmeria coniospora, was described by
Dreckler, who originally placed it in the hyphomycetc fonn-genus
Meria, together with Merfa laricis, a foliar parasite of Larix
( P h e ) . Although both species produce 1-celled hyalospores from
serial phialides on hypM conidiornata, the new genus Drechmerlo was
proposed by Gams and Jansson (1985) to accommodate the nematode
oarasite based on oure culture studies, ecological differences, and
integratedbhidides vs. the m & I ydiscrete phialides b f ~
larlcls. Ribosomal DNA sequences were determined from an accession
that continued to produce the diagnostic features of D. coniospora in
culture. BLAST comparisons of D.coniospora rDNA to nucleotide
databases revealed high similarities to accessions for species belonging
to the ascomycete order Hypocreales. Parsimony analysis of partial
sequencesfromthe small subunit and full ITS region of accessions
from the Hypocreales, as well as other species representingthe
phylogenctic diversity of ascomycetes, placed Drechmerla in the
hypocrcalcan family Clavicipitaceae. Drechmeria contospora shares
the mlogical strategy of animal parasitism also found in some
members-of ~lavici~kceae
and a high degree of sequence homology
with Beauverfa and Tolvpocfadfummi=.The affinitv of Merfa
laricts to the inopercul~edisc~m~ceie.~enus
of foliar darasites,
Rhubdocline, has already been demonstrated using rDNA evidence.
These findings support the separation of the anamorphic fungi
Drechmerfaand Meria into a distinct genera and indicate that any
implied relationship between the two genera is phylogenetically
unwarranted.
*GIESER. PAUL and RIZZO, DAVE, Plant Pathology Dept..
University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA, Identification
and isolation of nuclear haplotypes from dikaryotic specimens of
PheUinus for molecular population and phylogenetic analyses.
use of PCR has become a valuable tool for population and
phylogenetic studies in fungi. Haploid isolates are well suited for
isolating single-locus nuclear haplotypes for analyses. In some
cases where molecular methods are needed, living cultures may
not be available. For our study of worldwide populations of
several Phellinus species, the predominant sources of tissue for
DNA were dried basidiomata (up to 100 years old) obtained from
herbaria. Several problems are inherent in trying to conduct
molecular evolutionary studies from these kind of specimens.
ranging from difficulties with obtaining DNA from woody or very
old specimens to potential amplification of multiple haplotypes
either as heterozygous loci from dikaryons (functional diploids) or
divergent paralogs. Simultaneous amplification of polymorphic
haplotypes or possibly paralogous sequences may not be detected
by routine electrophoretic screening methods, rendering direct
sequencing from amplified DNA useless and expensive. Further,
if polymorphic or paralogous loci do exist, then identification of
homologous and reliable "alleles" or singular nuclear haplotypes
for desired molecular analyses becomes an issue that may be nontrivial or difficult to assess. We used a process to identify and
isolate representative homologs and potential divergent paralogs of
ITS and IGS regions of the nuclear rDNA locus in Phellinw
species. This process relies on restriction analysis and SSCP
(single-stranded conformational polymorphism) for initial
identification of heterogeneous PCR amplified products (as
possible multiple haplotypes) and then to evaluate a series array of
cloned products for each taxon to find representative nuclear
haplotypes for use in phylogenetic inference. This method is
applicable for identification and isolation of individual haplotypes
for virtually any locus from diploidheterokaryotic tissue sources.
*G&NHAN,
TOM, CBS, P.O. Box 273. 3740 AG Baarn,
Netherlands, BENNY, GERALD L., Dept. of Plant Pathology,
Uni~ersity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, KIRK,
PAUL M., CAB1 Bioscience, Egham, Surrey TW20 9TY. UK,
.and O'DONNELL, KERRY, Microbial Properties Research,
NCAUR, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Peoria,
Illinois 61604, Annotations to a revision of the genus
Piptocephalis.
Members of the Piptocephalidaceae are obligate parasites
mostly of Mucorales. The family now comprises three genera,
Piptocephalis, Kuwhaea and Syncephalis, which can be found
in dung, soil and leaf litter. In a phylogenetic tree inferred from
18s rDNA sequence data, a separate Qmcephalis clade is
identified that warrants the exclusion of Syncephalis from the
family. The major divergence .between this and the two
remaining genera is also underlined by structure and ecology.
About 200 isolates of Piptocephalis were critically examined.
Thus far, 29 taxa have been described in the genus, 18 of which
are recognized as distinct species, seven being doubtful and four
names synonymous. About ten new species await description.
A first subdivision of the genus is based on the spore heads
being either dry or forming a liquid droplet. The shape of the
headcells and the, number of spores delimited in a
merosporangium were fou~lcl to be stable and valuable
taxonomic characters, followed by branching pattern and
septation of. the sporophores. Zygospores arise from parallel or
pincer-shaped suspensors and can have a variously sculptured
exospore wall.
HAWKINS, LAURAME K., Penn State Mont Alto, Mont
Alto, PA 17237 USA, Levels of variation in the
communities of molds associated with heteromyid rodents.
Many species of microfhngi interact with the seed-hoarding
heteromyid rodents of the arid regions of western North
America. Multiple levels of variation have been identified in
these relationships. A long-term study on molds and
banner-tailed kangaroo rats in central New Mexico
identified the following factors as affecting mold incidence
and 1 or abundance in samples: spatial variation on a local
scale; temporal variation related to rainfall patterns; and
rodent traits such as age, gender, reproductive status, and,
in one of four years, mobility. More recently, samples from
several species of rodents were collected in New Mexico
and Arizona. These data will allow me to start examining
variation in mold communities across wider spatial scales
and among differing rodent hosts. I predict that samples
from larder hoarding heteromyids, which store large
quantities of seed within their burrow systems, will reveal a
relatively consistent core group of molds, while samples
from scatter hoarding heteromyids, which cache small
quantities of seeds in soil away from burrows, will result in
highly variable, relatively unpredictable mold communities.
*HARRINC,TON, T. C., AND IKAIJAA, P. M. Dept. of
Plant Pathology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011,
USA; and Dept. of Biosciences, University of Helsinki,
00014, Finland. Congruence and incongruence among
gene trees of the Heterobasidion annosum complex.
Gene trees based on the DNA sequences of three
peroxidase genes of Heterobasidion were compared to
previously published trees based on rDNA spacer regions
(the two internal transcribed spacer regions and the firsf
intergenic spacer region). This genus of polypored fungi
is comprised of three formally recognized species and
several intersterility groups within H. annosum, an
important root rot pathogen on the Pinaceae. There was
congruence among the gene trees in placing H. araucariae
and H. insulare basal to the H. annosum complex; and
the European pine form, the American pine form, and
the fir-spruce form of H. annosum were seen as three
separate, strongly-supported lineages in all trees. Within
the firspruce form, two morphologically and ecologically
distinct types are recognized in Europe, the 'S' and 'F
types, which are specialized to spruce and fir, respectively.
The 'S' and 'F'types were indistinguishable by their
rDNA spacer sequences but were highly divergent in
their peroxidase sequences. The I S ' and 'F types are.
partially interfertile in laboratory tests, and hybridization
events after speciation may explain the similarity of their
rDNA spacer regions. The maintenance of divergent
extracellular enzymes such as peroxidases, which are
aitical for wood decay, in the 'S' and 'Ftypes may be due
to selection pressures associated with host specialization.
*HEATH, I. BRENT,Biology Dept., York University, 4700
Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada. Structural
aspects of hyphal growth.
Development of a fungal mycelium involves the growth of
hyphal tips and the correctly timed initiation of new tips
(branches). These processes a r e exquisitely r e d a t e d to
produce both regular tubes and the accurate branchltip
ratios. However, while predictable, branch formation is not
precisely positioned. In addition, growing hyphae "steer"
very accurately in response to both physical and chemical
clues, producing diverse tropisms and alternately spreading
mycelia and solid tissues. The subtleties of these controls
indicate that they must reside inside hyphae where they
can be subjected to the highly evolved cellular regulatory
systems, a s opposed to extracellularly a s indicated by
models proposing wall regulation of morphogenesis.
Nevertheless, all signals from ' t h e environment must
traverse the wall, thus it is involved in sensing a s well a s
being correctly synthesized on the growing tips. In addition
to these cell surface related activities i n colony formation,
i t is also essential for intracellular organelles and vacuoles
to be correctly distributed in order to supply the essential
support components for hyphal tip growth. These
considerations argue for a role of the cytoskeleton m
regulating tip growth, and thus colony morphology. Diverse
observations and experimental manipulations implicate
the cytoskeleton in both the initiation and maintenance of
hyphal tip formation and the distribution of cellular
components including vacuoles. Pushing the regulatory
questions further back, Ca2+ appear to be important in
both maintenance and initiation, but the mechanisms by
which they are in turn regulated are complex.
0-
HEMMES, DON E., Biology Department, University of Hawaii at
Hilo, Hilo, HI 96720, GILBERTSON, ROBERT L., Department
of Plant Pathology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721,
DESJARDIN, DENNIS E., Department of Biology, San Francisco
State University, San Francisco, CA 94132 and ROGERS, JACK
D., Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University,
Pullman, WA 99164, Fungi associated with the mamane-naio
vegetation community within the Hawaiian Islands.
Over fifty species of fungi have been recorded from the mamane
(Sophora chrysophylla) -naio (Myoporumsandwicense) forests
found at the 1,800-2,900 meter elevation on the slopes of Mama
Kea and in the saddle between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the
Big Island of Hawaii. Many are wood rotting basidiomycetes and
pyrenomycetes found on fallen branches of the naio.
GIoeophyllumtrabeum, PheNinus robustus, and Trametes
versicolor are the most common large polypores on fallen naio.
Radulodon subquercinus was collected in this habitat for the first
time in Hawaii.The gasteromycetes are represented by Battarrea
phalloides, Disciseda verrucosum, Myriostoma coliforme, seven
species of Geastmm, and several species of Tulostoma. Heliocybe
sulcata is the most commonly encountered agaric, but other
species in the genera Agaricus, Armillaria, Clitocybe, and
Coprinus have also been collected. Onygena corvina was present
on owl pellets and a single specimen of Morchella esculenra
was collected at 2,000 meters.
*HENNEN, JOE F., Botanical Research institute of Texas
(BRIT),509 Pecan St., Ft. Worth TX 76102 USA, SOTAO,
HELEN M. P., Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Caixa Postal
399, Bel6m Parh Brazil 66040.170, and HENNEN, MARY M.
W., Botanical Research Institute of Texas, 509 Pecan St., Ft.
Worth TX 76102, The genus Diorchidium (Uredinales) in the
Neotropics.
This study of herbarium specimens and literature concludes
that four species of the rust fungus genus Diorchidium are
known from the tropics of the western hemisphere. It is part
of our monograph of the large family Raveneliaceae for Flora
Neotropica. Eight other species of Diorchidium from Africa
and Asia have been named since the genus was described in
1882.
New
descriptions,
synonymy,
and
new
photomicrographs are provided for the neotropical species:
Diorchidium acanthostephum, D,amapaensis sp. nov. Hennen
& Sotfio, D. copaiferae and D. puiggarii.
Of these,
spermogonia are known only for D. puiggarii. Several closely
related genera are briefly discussed. Allotelium is a synonym
of Dicheirinia, not Diorchidium The placement of D.
ampaensis'in Diorchidium is acknowledged to be anomolous
because it parasitizes Geophila sp. in the Rubiaceae while all
other known species occur on Leguminosae. If spermogonia
are discovered for D. ampaensis they might aid in better
understanding its taxonomic relations. D. amapaensis is
known only from our two collections which are a part of the
first exploration for rust fungi in the state of Arnaph, northern
Brazil..
*HENN, MAl-I'HEW R., OSHER, LAURIE, HORTON, TOM, and
CHAPELA, IGNACIO H., University of California, Berkeley,
Ecosystem Sciences Division, ESPM, 15 1 Hilgard Hall MC#3 1 10,
Berkeley, CA 94720-31 10. Alteration of C processing and fungal
community structure by change in vegetation and associated
mycorrhizae in the Ecuadorian paramo.
In the highlands of Ecuador, large-scale planting of Monterey pines
is underway. The rationale for this introduction of an exotic plant
into ecosystems otherwise dominated by grasses is that they are
expected to alleviate the rapid increase of C02causing greenhouse
warming. However, the effects of this introduction on ecosystem
function and community structure have not been studied, and the net
effect,ofthese plantations is a matter of debate. By measuring the
stable C isotope signature of various compartments of these
plantations (fungi, soil, and trees) and adjacent, undisturbed
grasslands, we were able to evidence major changes in the
processing of C in these landscapes. Additionally, DNA-based
identification of fungal components in the mycorrhizal compartment
of the plantations was performed to relate the changes in C
processing with major microbial community changes. Data from the
exotic plantations are compared with data From native California
stands of Monterey and Bishop pines. DNA-based identification
indicates an extreme simplification of mycorrhizal communities
accompanying the change from grassland to pine plantation. This
underground change also mirrors the evident change in vegetational
composition seen aboveground. The delta-"C data suggests that the
introduced ectomycorrhizal fungi may access grassland organic
carbon through saprotrophic activity. We conclude that the
perceived benefit of planting pines in these highland ecosystems is
not warranted, and that the contrary effect to the C trapping might be
taking place through the altered functioning of the ecosystem
mediated by a major change in fungal communities.
*HENSON,JOAN h4 andWILKINSON,HANK,Depmmtof
~ l o g y , ~ ~ ~ , ~ M T 5 9 7 1 7 a n d
D e p t m n t o M a h n a l ~ a n d F'
.JmUnrversityof
llli1~5i~IL61801,MYcel$lDaPlopnerdOnandW~M
T m
* H E R N ~ E ZJOSE
,
R., Faculty of Agronomy and Animal
Science, Universidad Nacional de Tucumhn, 4.000 San
Miguel de Tucumb Argentina, and HENNEN, JOE F.,
Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), Fort Worth
Texas 76102 USA, Rust galls and witches' brooms in
Northwest Argentina.
The Northwest Region of Argentina, a subtropical area
characterized by great climatic and biological diversity,
consists of plains in the east and the Cordillera de 10s Andes in
the west with alternating valleys and mountains within short
distances. The resulting intermingling ecological zones give
rise to vegetation that ranges from desert to rain forest. Field
work in this region by the authors and in relation to the PbD.
research by the senior author has resulted in about 600
collections of rust fungi. Research ,on these and other
herbarium resources demonstrate that spectacular galls and
witches',broorns are frequent symptoms of rust infections.
Systemic or locally systemic spermogonial-aecial infections
give rise to these symptoms but uredinial and telial infections
may also be involved. The following rust-host combinations
are among those found: Chaconia ingae-Inga edulis,
Prospodium appendiculatum-Tecoma stuns, Prospodiwn
elegans-Tecoma garrocha, Prospodium perornatum-Tabebuia
avellanedae, Puccinia bougainvilleae-Bougaimillea stipitata,
Ravenelia australis-Acacia aroma, Ravenelia spegarrinianaAcacia aroma, Ravenelia distantia-Acacia visco, Uropyxis
rickiana-Macjbdyena unguis-cati. These systemic infections
induce abnormal increase in growth of host organs that results
in increased s~orulationareas for the rusts.
HILL, TERRY W. and LOPRETE, DARLENE M.,
Department of Biology and Department of Chemistry,
Rhodes College, Memphis TN 38112 USA, Isolation and
characterization of a branching-related endo-(1,4)-pglucanase from Achlya ambisexualis.
Secreted endoglucanases have been implicated in the
branching of fungal and oomycete hyphae and in regulating the compliance of walls covering hyphal tips. Here
we report the first isolation of such a n enzyme and a
characterization of its molecular properties. The catalytic 25 kDa subunit of the E-I1 endo-(1,4)-p-glucanase of
Achlya ambisexualis was purified using Sephadex G I 0 0
gel exclusion chromatography, followed by ion exchange
chromatography with QAE Sephadex A-25. A pH optimum of ca. 6.75, a temperature optimum of ca. 35"C,
and an isoelectric point of ca. 4.6 were measured. Activity is strongly inhibited by gluconolactone and partially inhibited by calcium ions and agents interfering with sulfhydryl groups. N-bromosuccinirnide (active against tryptophan residues) completely inhibits. An endohydrolytic
mode of action was confirmed by comparing the rates of
decline in viscosity vs. generation of reducing groups with
CMC as a substrate. The enzyme shows no significant
activity against substrates lacking p-( 1,4)-glucosidic linkages, nor against acid-swollen cellulose. When tested
against purified Achlya cell walls and cell wall fractions,
the enzyme was active only against the hot KOH-soluble
eaction, which is the only wall fraction that contains noncellulosic p-(1,4)-glucosidic linkages.
HERRERA, JOSE and TEACHMAN, AMY. Division of
Science, Truman State University, Kirksville, MO 63501 USA,
Interactions of fire, grasses and pathogenic fungi.
an ecosystem particularly prone to fire events,
Tillgrass
possess plant species that appear to exhibit adaptations to
periodic burnings. For example, a fire event that burns dead or
decaying vegetation (litter) on a grassland prairie will increase
many measures of plant vigor including, production of biomass,
number of flowering tillers. We are conducting a two year study
on a tallgrass prairie (Konza prairie, Manhattan, KS) to
determine how litter and a prescribed fireregime affect pathogen
populations (particularly fungal), and how those pathogens affect
biomass, reproductive output and number of pathogenic leaf
lesions of two grass species (Andropogon gerardii and
Sorghastrum nutam). The basic premise of this study is that
certain litter-inhabiting fungi are detrimental to some emergent
grasses, and that these h g i are destroyedorreduced by periodic
burning. The resulting post-fire h g a l (pathogen) community
structure may offer certain grass species a post-fire window of
opportunity to regrow with a reduced threat of attack by fungal
pathogens. Results thus far indicate that suspending litter above
plots containing burned or unburned grasses does not change the
number of pathogenic lesions nor the mean surface area of
fungal lesions present on the grass leaves. However, the number
of reproductive tillers and the average biomass of the grasses
decreased in plots that contained suspended litter compared with
those plots that did not have litter. Our observations suggest that
suspended litter (not in physical contact with grasses) causes
grasses to reallocate energy away from reproduction and mass.
HODNEIT, B. and *ANDERSON,JAMESB., Department of
Botany, University of Toronto at Mississauga, Ontario L5L
1C6 CANADA, Mutation in genetic individuals of
Armillaria gallica
.
Hyrnenomycete fungi are territorial; each genetic individual
arises in a unique mating event and then grows
vegetatively to colonize a territory that can vary in size and
shape. Diploid genetic individuals of AnniIlaria gallica
thought to be at least one million mitotic cell generations
old (>I000 years) offer a rare opportunity to detect and
estimate the rates of neutral mutation in selected genomic
regions under natural conditions. In these individuals, it is
also possible to detect gene conversion and mitotic crossing
over, both of which eliminate heterozygosity. In effect, the
history of genetic change within the individual should be
evident in a spatial pattern reflecting growth from a point
of origin. b contrast, most previous estimates of mutation
rate in natural populations have been indirect; they are
based on the frequencies of alleles whose spatial origins and
history in the population are unknown. We will present the
results of screening many anonymous regions of DNA for
variation within two large genetic individuals of Annillaria
gdlica.
*HUGHES, KAREN W., MCGHEE, LAURA,
METHVEN, ANDREW S., JOHNSON, JIM E., AND
PETERSEN, RONALD H, Department of Botany,
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1 100, USA.
Phylogeny of species within the genus Flammulina.
*HUANG, YONG-QING and LI, XIANG-QIAN, Systematic
Mycology and Lichenology Laboratory, Institute of
Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing .100080,
China, Identification of biological species within the Armillaria
mellea species complex from China based on mating studies and
IGS-RFLPs.
Exemplars of most species of Flammlclina were selected,
including several proposed new species within the genus.
The new species wcre suggested on the basis of
morphology (Scott Redhead) and mating compatibilities
(Ronald Petersen). The ribosomal lTS1-5.8s-US2 regions
were sequenced for each exemplar. Sequence comparisons
suggest that there are two major clades: 1) A clade
consisting of F. velutipes isolates including the varieties
vehiipes, Iactea and lupinicola (nom prov.); and 2) A
clade consisting of F. populicola, F. rarsica, F. mexicana,
(all nom. prov.), F.fennae and F. ononidis. Flamulina
elasiica (nom. prov.) is basal to the F. populicola clade.
Flammulinapopulicola is polyphylctic with one clade in
Europe and a second clade in North America. This
suggests that F. populicola may be an old species that has
undergone differentiation following geographical isolation.
An unusual 12 bp exact duplication was found within the
5.8s gene of the exemplar, F. velutipes (isolate 7200) from
England. The 5.8s gene is a functional ribosomal RNA
gene and is highly conserved. The insertion is at the end of
a stem structure, extending into a loop and apparently does
not affect 5.8s RNA fimction.
We used mating tests and RFLP of the intergenic spacer (IGS)
to identify biological species within the Armillaria mellea
species complex collected from different hosts in various areas
of northern and northeastern China. As results of monospore
mating tests, four intersterility groups were identified within the
Armillaria mellea species complex from this region. Tester
strains of five European biological species were employed for
mating studies. Only one of the four Chinese intersterility
groups was compatible with the European tester strains of A.
gallica. The IGS region between the 3' end of the large subunit
rRNA and 5' end of the 5S.rRNA was amplified using PCR and
the products were digested with five restriction enzymes
AluI, HinfI, MspI, HaeIII and HincII - for 27 tester strains,
representing four Chinese intersterility groups and five
European biological species. Six AluI and HinfI digestion
patterns were observed, and one to two digestion patterns were
identified as results of digestion by MspI, HaeIII or HincII.
The five European and four Chinese biological species can be
differentiated by combining the IGS-RFLP digestion patterns of
AluI with any one of the digestion patterns of HaeIII, HinfI, and
HincII.
-
HYDE, KEVM D., Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, The
University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Mycology
in Asia and Australia.
The countries of Asia and Australasia include highly developed
industrial or agricultural nations, the financially strapped developing
"Asiari Tigers", and several very poor underdeveloped nations.
Consequently, the status of mycology and plant pathology in these
countries varies considerably, but is not necessarily proportional to
wealth. Australia has very few funded active mycologists and almost
no training or teaching of mycology, but has a good plant pathology
program. Thailand has an excellent training program for mycologists
who are reasonably well funded, whereas India which has
considerable mycological history and a surprisingly large number of
mycologists, has very poor funding. Mycologists in Indonesia, the
philippinesand Papua New Guinea are extremely thin on the
ground, but Hong Kong has extremely active mycology groups and
training programs for the region. Collaborative opportunities in Asia
are therefore considerable. The poorer nations are crying out for
collaborative projects which include training at no expense. Some of
the "Asian Tigers" are looking for collaborators and in some cases
will provide local funding. The industrial nations such as Hong
Kong and Japan are also seeking outside collaboration and may
provide finding. Training is especially important as there is a lack of
taxonomists throughout most of the region. Training should be basic
and realistic. Some excellent students await their chance to develop
their mycological expertise and when they return home will provide
excellent lifetime collaborators. The development of centers for
mycology in both Asia and Australia would be highly desirable and
should be niven too orioritv in these regions.
25
*HYDE, KEVM L)., FROHLICH, J., TAYLOR, J., UMALI, T.,
WHITTON, S., and YANNA., Department of Ecology and
Biodiversity, The University of Hong Kong, Polcfblam Road, Hong
Kong, Biodiversity studies of fungi on monocotyledonous plants in
the tropics.
We are presently investigating the microfungi occurring on several
monocotyledonous families in the Asian and Australian regions. This
involves several PhD students and several collaborative projects in
Asian countries. The fungi of palms have proved a particularly
interesting group. In oke study of the ascomycetes on palms in
~ustraiia,Brunei, Ecuador and Hong Kong, we identified 202 taxa
of which 95 species were new to science. Although palm fungi are
nor generally specific to a particular host species, they may be
specific at the family level. Tissue type of host plants is also an
important factor in species composition. Leaves tend to support a
differing mycobiota, when compared to rachides. Structures such as
rattans also provide substrates for a rather different group of fungi.
Bamboo is also an excellent substrate for investigating fungal
diversity. In particular,.the a l m s support a wide range of fungi and
there is little overlap between the species of fungi occurring on the
different host genera Bambusa and Dendrocalamus in Hong Kong
and the Philippines. We have also been investigating the fungi on the
Pandanaceae which is also rich in microfungi, particular
hyphomycetes. These studies have provided a wealth of mycological
specimens, some excellent training for young mycologists and much
needed data on fungal diversity. The fungi in the tropics, at least on
monocotyledons, are proving to be extremely diverse.
*ITURRIAGA, TERESA, Departamento de Biologia de
Organismos, Universidad Sim6n Bolivar, Apartado 89000,
Sartenejas. Baruta, Edo. Miranda, Venezuela, The state of
mycology in Latin America, with special reference to
Venezuela.
'JACOBSON, K. AND JACOBSON, P., Department of
Biology, Grinnell College, Grinnell, IA 501 12, USA & Desert
Research Foundation of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia,
Floods provide essential moisture and nutrients for a diverse
riparian mycoflora in arid western Namibia.
Latin America (LA) is possibly the region with highest
biodiversity in the world and among the poorest in respect to
number of systematic mycologists. TKe Venezuelan situation is
critical and similar to that in most LA countries, where
mycology is poorly represented. These countries need to
monitor their mycological biodiversity since huge regions are
in danger of being destroyed. The main problems encountered
by systematic mycologists in LA are the lack of literature, of
information regarding specialists with whom collaboration
would be possible, and of knowledge in howlwhere to apply for
funding. On the other hand, foreign mycologists wanting to
work in LA encounter major problems in trying to organize
collecting trips to remote areas. The MSA International Committee's (MSA-IC) goals are to help establish the links between
students and mycologists from those areas and MSA members;
to centralize information on places where library resources are
housed in these countries; to create a list of systematic
mycology experts in the tropics; to organize courses, workshops and training for LA students and researchers and to
obtain more funding for scholarships for students and professionals to attend these meetings; and to centralize information
on upcoming events. Many of these goals can be eased by the
creation of a matchmaker section on the MSA-IC section of the
MSA bulletin board for joint project collaboration, experts1
consultants available for fungal identification, specimens/cultures, and books/journals needed and wanted. The AVM
(Venezuelan Mycological Associatidn) and the ALM (Latin
American Mycological Association) can approach local mycologists. ALM recently created a web-page, and provides a list
of members, addresses, institutions and areas of specialization.
Contrary to previou~assumptions, we recently found that
fungi are integral components of a subsurface decomposer
community in the Central Namib Sand Sea (mean annual
rainfall 20-100 mm). Cellulose decomposition rafes here are
6-10 times faster than in temperate ecosystems, and the
decomposer community is activated by minimal rainfall
events which occurr, on average, every 0.3-2.75 years. In
addition to this strictly terrestrial habitat, eight ephemeral
rivers draining the adjacent escarpment, support riparian
forests within the Namib Desert. Post-flood biotic inventories
in eight rivers revealed a significantly richer mycoflora than
the adjacent dune desert (63 vs 8 species respectively),
reflecting the importance of flood pulses for supplying
moisture and nutrient-rich substrates. Macro-fungal diversity
was characterized by cosmopolitan species from disturbed
habitats, species known only from tropical Africa, and a large
proportion of unknown species. As was observed in the
Sand Sea, macrofungal phenology was correlated with
sporocarp stature, and was governed by substrate
dessication. Surface decomposers were active in riparian
habitats for less than 2 weeks, but subsurface decomposition continued for substantially longer periods, as indicated
by macrofungal fruiting from depths of 20 cm or more, up to
6-12 months after flooding.
*JTN, JUNKANG, HUGHES. KAREN W., PETERSEN.
RONALD H., Department of Botany, The University of
Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1 100, Biogeographical
analysis of Panellus stypticus populations based on
sequences and restriction fragment length polymorphisms
of the ITSl-5.8s-ITS2 region of nuclear ribosomal DNA
The ribosomal lTS1-5.8s-ITS2 region was PCR-amplified
for 74 collections of Panellus stypicus. This region was
sequenced for 3 geographically separated collections from
Far East Russia, Tennessee and New Zealand respectively.
Collections from Russia and Tennessee had only 2 bp
differences over the -700 bp ITS region. The New Zealand
collection had 9 deletions and was 90 bp shorter in total in
the ITS region than the ITS sequences from the other two
geographical areas. Sequence difference between collections
from Tennessee and Russia could be identified by TaqI and
BstZI restriction enzymes. These two enzymes firther
separated Eastern North America, Minnesota, Alaska and
Montreal collections from Western USA, Eurasian collections
Costa Rica, New Zealand, New South Wales and Tasmania
of Australia may represent geographically isolated and
divergent populations.
*JODHAN, DOREEN, Department of LEe Sciences, Faculty of
Agriculture and Natural Sciences, The University of the West
Indies, St. Augusthe, Trinidad, Macrofungi in a marsh forest and
a montane forest inTrinidad.
A Darwin Initiative was awarded to carry out the prelimhary work
necessary to set up a regional identification service in the
Caribbean. In my research a-checklist of the macrofungi of
Trinidad is compiled and I look at the species diversity of a marsh
forest as compared to a montane forest. This research ties in with
two of the goals of the Darwin project. One, is the production of
a checklist of Caribbean fungi. The other is the training of
individuals in identification of fimgi.
Literature and herbarium records are being surveyed for past
records of species. This will give a status of collections and areas
surveyed and assist in deciding on taxa of fimgi to be surveyed.
Taxa will cover terrestrial and saprobic fungi. Field surveys in
1996 helped determine sites to be studied. Terrestrial macrofungi
are being surveyed using one 30mx30m plot per site and the litter
macrofungi are sampled using twelve lmxlm plots within the
larger plot. Species presence and number of individuals will be
noted over a period of two years. Habitats along with substrate size
and state of decay will be noted. Variables to be measured include
rainfall, relative humidity, temperature and litter depth. Soil
analyses will include temperature, moisture, nitrogen, phosphorous
and potassium and texture. Full scientific descriptions will be
made for new or poorly described species.
'JOHNSON, JAMES E.1, PETERSEN, RONALD H.2, and
HUGHES, KAREN w.2, l ~ e ~ a r t m e noft Botany, Duke
University, Durham, NC 27708, 2~epartmentof Botany, The
Upiversity of Tennessee, Knoxville TN 27996, Morphology,
mating compatibility, and molecular systematics of the
Xeromphalina campanella complex.
A study was conducted to determine if three character suites, 1)
macro- and micromorphology of basidiomata; 2) sexual
compatibility; and 3) ITS DNA sequences would define similar
groups within the Xeromphalina campanella complex (X.
campanella, X. b ~ n n e o l a ;X. kaufmanii). Morphological
characters were examined for 85 collections from throughout the
ranges of these taxa. Compatibility data supported recognition of
four gioups which attributable to
brunneola, X. kauffmanii,
and two groups within the traditional limits of X. campanella
(Xc-I'and Xc-11). Thorough microscopic analysis was required to
distinguishxc-I from Xc-II. Two additional intersterility groups
representede by single collections were morphologically
inseparable from Xc-I. Sequences of the internal transcribed
spacers (ITS 1 and ITS2) including the 5.8s ribosomal RNA gene
were obtained for 27 isolates from the X. campanelh complex and
eight other species, and phylogenies were estimated using
parsimony and maximum-likelihood. These phylogenies
supported monophyly of the intersterility groups identified in
compatibility studies except for the two single-collection groups
which were embedded in other clades. Cumulatively, analysis of
the three character suites supported recognition of four species in
the complex, although the taxonomic status of the two singlecollectiorl intersterility noups remains unresolved.
<
KENNEY, MICHAEL and BAGENSKI 1 SPEVEN J. 1 USDA, APHIS,
PPQ, Plant Inspection Station, Bldg. #77, Rm 127,
Jamaica, NY 11430 USA and 3500 NW 62 Ave., Miami,
FL 33122 USA. The role of USDA Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Plant Pathologists
in protecting American agriculture and the
environment from exotic diseases.
Many mycologists and plant pathologists specialize
in a lifetime study of one taxon or host group.
USDA, APHIS Plant Pathologists, the first line of
defense in the fightto stop the entry and spread of
exotic disease agents into the United States,
identify plant pathogens as generalists. Although
the USDA regulates a wide range of agriailtural
products, the importation of propagative plant
material presents the greatest risk. for disease
entry. The primary focus of this poster will be on
the work of Plant Pathology Identifiers ih Plant
Inspection Stations at United States ports of entry,.
*KAMINSKYJ, SUSAN G. W.. Dept. Biology, U
Saskatchewan,SK SN7 5E2, Canada. Aspergillus nidulans
hypercellular ts mutants induce cellurar restructuring after
temperature upshift.
Wildtype A. nidulans strains grow as tubular multinucleate hyphae
which are divided into tip and basal cells by septa. Tip cells grow
continuously and are mitotically active, thus varying in length and
number of nuclei. Basal cells an.m s t e d for growth with three to
four interphase nuclei, until branching creates a new tip. A.
nidulans hyphal morphology and septation patterns are regulateg
by at least five nonessential genes, called hypA-hypE. Strains
with temperam-sensitive (ts) conditional hyp alleles resemble
wildtype at 2g°C, but at 42°C their hyphae are wide and have
frequent septa. hyp ts strains are fully viable at 42°C: they
germinate, grow indefinitely, and conidiate. hypA is cloned and is
a novel gene. When 28°C-grown hypA, hypB, hypD or hypE ts
strains were shifted to 42"C, their basal cells swelled, assuming
the 42°C form, and became mitotically active. The fate of tip cells
varied: those of hypD and hypE strains swelled like the basal cells,
but tip cells of hypB strains died. In hypA strains, about 20% of
tip cells adopted the 42°C form, and the rest died, suggesting that
for hypA survival after upshift may be related to cell cycle stage.
hypA tip cell survival was increased by hydroxyurea treatment,
which causes arrest at S-phase, but not by benomyl, which blocks
at anaphase. Double mutants were made between hypA and ts
strains which arrest at the GuM boundary (nim. never b dtosis:
nimA [GUMkinase], nimE [cyclinB], nimT [cdc25], nimX
[cdc2]) or during mitosis (bim, blocked in ~ t o s i sbimC
:
[SPB
kinesin], bimE [APCl]). The 42°C phenotype of each double
mutant strain was additive: single nuclei in wide hypA-like
gerrnlings. Consistent with the inhibitor results, tip cells of these
double mutant strains generally died after upshift. However,
unexpectedly, all (hypA, nimA) tip cells survived and swelled
along with the basal cells.
IKERRIGAN, R W.(l), CAUAC, P.(2), XU, J.(3), and
NOBLE, R(4);(1)Sylvan Inc., Kittanning, PA, USA 16201
(2)INRA, Sta. Champignons, CRBordeay B,P. 81 33883
Villenave d'Omon, France (3)Department of Botany, Univ.
Toronto Erindale, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada LSL 1C6
(4)Microbiology and Crop Protection Department, HRI, Wellesbourne, Warwick, UK CV35 9EF. Phylogenetic structure within
the Agaricus subfloccosus compfex: evidence for two species.
-
The name Agaricus subfloccosus (Lge.) Pilat, based originally on
Danish specimens, has been applied to mushrooms growing in
coastal northwestern Europe as well as to mushrooms associated
with Picea and Abies at higher elevations in central Europe.
Corresponding populations are also found in these two habitat
zones in westem North America. Material of both lowland and
highland forms from Europe and North America was studied
using morphological, cultural, and genotypic approaches.
Dissimilarity analysis of multilocus nuclear and mitochondrial
genotypes based on allozyme and DNA RFLP markers provided
strong evidence that, within either ecologically distinct group, the
amphiatlantic populations were genotypically very similar.
Conversely, there were large genotypic differences between the
two ecologically distinct groups, whether within or between
continents. Supported by cultural and morphological evidence,
these data indicate that two species exist within current concepts
of A. subfloccosus. One isolate from Denmark was unusual in
having a nuclear genotype characteristic of the upland species in
conjunction with a mitochondrial genotype characteristic of the
lowland species. Ecologically, Denmark represents a conjunction
of the coastal and montane coniferous habitats. A taxonomic
resolution is complicated by the lack of a holotype for the species.
*KINGSFORD, JULANA N., YOUSSEF, NABIL N., and
KROPP, B. R, Biology Department, Utah State University,
Logan UT 84322 USA, Isolation and characterization of
an undescribed species of Ascoqhaera.
A previously undescribed species ofAscoqhaera was
collected from the nests of the Blue Orchard Bee, Osmia
lignaria, at Nephi Canyon, Juab County, Utah. Spores of
this fungus were found on and in pollen balls, in nectar, and
on the nesting materials. Mycelial growth was very sparse
within the pollen ball and consisted mostly of ascocysts.
However, upon germinating the spores on Sabouraud
dextrose agar supplemented with 0.7% yeast extract, the
growth was very prolific. After only two days, growth was
apparent as short, powdery, white mycelia. Upon
transferring the fungus to a new plate, the mycelial growth
formed concentric circles. The ascocysts are round and
metallic black in color and contain spores that are ovoid in
shape with a length of 7pm and a width of 4pm. Like other
Ascoqhaera species, the ascal cell membrane degenerates
and the spores aggregate into sporeballs. There are eight to
sixteen spores in a sporeball. Further study of sporogenesis
and the life cycle at the electron microscope level are in
progress.
*KOHLMEYER, JAN, and VOLKMANN-KOHLMEYER,
BRIGITTE, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill,Morehead City, NC 28557 USA, A
case of extremely high biodiversity: Fungi on the halophyte
J u n m roemerianus.
The endemic needlerush J. roemerianus forms dense monotypic
stands in salt marshes of the 'eastern United States. Leaves of
this perennial plant grow 259 d, senesce 3 12 d rind may stand for
3 years or longer. Harsh conditions of the intertidal, e.g.,
submergence and emergence, exposure to sea- or rainwater, high
summer temperatures and freezes in winter have been favorable
for the development of a high diversity of saprobic fungi. Leaf
bases are inhabited by marine fungi, the tips by terrestrial, but
halotolerant species. Facultative marine fungi grow in between.
So far we found 88 species, 32 of which have been named and
described, belonging to 30 genera (11 of them new) in 15
faniilies (one new). Most of the species are ascomycetes (55
spp.), the rest (33) are mitosporic fungi. Basidiomycetes appear
to be absent.
EDWARD J., DALY,
*KLICH, MAREN A.,
CATHERINE B., and CARY, JEFFREY W. U.S. Department
of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Southern
Regional Research Center, PO Box 19687, New Orleans LA
70179. Some molecular aspects of aflatoxin biosynthesis by
Aspergillus tamani and A. odrraceoroseus.
Although the biosynthetic pathway for the mycotoxins aflatoxin
and sterigmatocystin are very similar, the amino acid sequences
for the genes involved are quite different. The regulatory gene,
q7R from A. parasiticus, which produces aflatoxin, has only
33% amino acid sequence similarity in the open reading frames
to the a~7Rfrom A. nidulanr, which produces sterigmatocystin.
In this study we probed two isolates, Aspergillus m r i i SRRC
2420 and A. ochraceoroseus SRRC 1432 which have recently
been shown to produce aflatoxin, with crfm from A. nid*
and from A. parasiticus. The A. t m r i i hybridized to the crfm
gene probe from A. parasiticus. Non-toxigenic isolates of A.
tamarii examined previously did not hybridize to this gene
probe, indicating that this isolate is very unusual. The A.
ochraceoroseur isolate did not hybridize to the A. parasiticus
qfm gene probe, .but did hybridize to the A. ni&&m aflR gene
probe. This is the first report of aflatoxin production by a
species hybridizing to this A. nidulanr 'sterigmatocystin' gene.
KORF, RICHARD P., *ITURRIAGA, TERESA, A N D
BABCOCK, JAMES F., Plant Pathology Herbarium,
Cornell University, Ithaca NY 14850 USA, *Dep+ento
Biologia d e Organismos, Universidad Simoh Bolivar,
Apartado 89000, Sartenejas, Baruta, Edo. Miranda,
Venezuela, Crocicreas epifngicola (Helotiales): a new
discomycete on Epifbgus (Ombanchaceae).
A new species of Crockreas is reported o n overwintered
stems of the achlorophyllous "beech drops," EpiBgus
virginianus (Orobanchaceae), in New York State. The
dead stems of the host may bear abundant apothecia of
this discomycete but are also invaded by a prominent,
erumpent, rarely reported sclerotial fungus, Sclerotium
orobanches, with which it has no organic association. This
n e w species is structurally similar t o Crocjcreas
cyathoideum var. cyathoideum, differing particularly in
having narrower ascospores and i n having rugosegranulate apical cells of the paraphyses. The nomenclatural a s well a s taxonomic statuses of the generic
names Crocicreas and Cyathicula are still in question, and
these problems are discussed in light of conflicting
taxonomic opinions on generic limits and the possibility
that the generic name Crocicreas cannot be used for
Ascomycetes since the type specimen of its type species
may not qualify as a teleomorph.
*KROKEN, SCOT& and TAYLOR, JOHN W. Department of
Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley,
CA 94720, A multi-locus approach to reveal speciation and life
history changes in the genus Letharia.
Letharia (wolf lichen) currently consists of two closely related
species with similar vegetative morphologies and natural
histories. L. columbiana is obligately sexual and L. vulpna is
mostly clonal, based on reproductive structures. The genus was
chosen as a model system to examine reproductive mode and
population stmcture. Thirteen variable DNA sequence-based loci
present in all individuals were identified, comprising rDNA (ITS
and an l8srDNA intron), one known coding sequence (chitin
synthase), 9 putative ORFs, and 2 non-ORF sequences. Most of
the loci are variable enough to form allelic groups, which vary
from being fixed in one lineage (coalesced) to existing across the
genus. This result suggests very recent divergence times in the
genus. Phylogenetic analysis of the 4372 base pairs comprising
these loci Gas performed, using Usnea arizonica as outgroup.
The coalesced loci were concordant with each other and
correlated with reproductive morphology. The non-coalesced loci
were not concordant with the coalesced loci, with each other, or
with morphology. The analysis revealed 2 new species: L.
co/irmbiaj~aand L.vulpina each consist of 2 lineages. A cryptic
lineage of L. columbiana is the sister clade of L. vulpina. One
lineage of L. vulpina correlates with soredia as asexual
propagules, and the other with isidia. ITS alone was not suficent
to resolve all monophyletic groups or the branching order of these
lineages. No single locus provided a complete picture. The study
is an example of the peril of infering organisma phylogeny from
single gene phylogenies at the level of closely related species.
*KRUG, JOHN C., and JENG, ROBERT S., Deprtment of
Botany, and Faculty of Forestry, University of Toronto,
Toronto, Ontario, CANADA, M5S 3B2. What is Thielavia
wactilis?
is one of a restricted number of species g f
Belavia with spores possessing subapical germ pores. In the
absence of authentic material, the true identity of this species is
uncertain. Using receht isolates the concept of the taxon will be
evaluated using morphological and molecular data.
Thielavia
*KROPP, BRADLEY R., HANSEN, DANE R, and
THOMSON, SHERMAN V., Biology Department, Utah State
University, Logan, Utah 84322 USA. Influence of light on
spore gerniination and infection of dyer's woad by Puccinia
thlaspeos.
Puccinia thlaspeos is +new biological control agent that
infects the introduced.yeed dyer's woad and prevents seed
production. Because of this, its life cycle and physical factors
affecting disease initiation are being intensively investigated.
The effects of light on spore germination 'and infection of
dyer's woad leaves were studied under controlled conditions
using a dew chamber. The production and germination of
basidiospores were compared after incubation for 24 hours in
continuous light and dark. The effect of light on the initial
penetration of dyer's woad leaves by germinating
basidiospores was also studied. Light significantly reduced the
production and germination of basidiospores over a 24 hour
period. Infection of leaf tissue by germinating basidiospores
occurred after only 3 hours of incubation in the dark but
required at least 6 hours when exposed to light.
*KUIIN, DAVID N., CORTES, BLANCA R., D'ALESSIO,
NAOMI and RAMEAU, REJANE, Department of Biological
Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199
USA, A Comparison and Time Course of Inheritance of
Mitochondrial Markers in Heterokaryons formed by Hyphal
Anastomosis and Protoplast Fusion in Fuciarium
Parasexuality requires the initial formation of heterokaryons
followed by karyogamy and haploidization. Plasmogamy does
not result in a mixing of mitochondria h m both parents, but
rather uniparental inheritance. One parental mitochondrial type is
lost within the first ten days after heterokaryon formation.
Heterokaryons can be formed in Fusarium by hyphal anastomosis
between vegetatively compatible strains. Iufkquently, we have
also observed heterokaryon formation by hyphal anastomosis
between strains in different vegetative compatibility groups
(VCG). Such heterokaryons are morphologically
indistinguishable from those formed within a VCG.
~eteroka;yonscan theoretically be formed between any two
strains by fusion of protoplasts. We have used molecular markers
including single strand conformational polymorphisms (SSCP)
and DNA sequencing to identify mitochondria from a VCG. We
have investigated the inheritance of mitochondria in inter-VCG
heterokaryons formed by both hyphal anastomosis and protoplast
fusion. In addition, we have attempted to document the time
course of the loss of one of the parental mitochondrial types.
Funded by NIGMS/NIH grant number GM08205
*KURTZMAN, RALPH R, JR., 445 Vassar Avenue, Berkeley,
CA 94708, USA. Substrates and casing, required properties and
tropical materials.
We can divide mushroom substrates into three types based on
the eco-physiological demands of the mushroom organisms:
Fresh ligno-cellulosic substrate is preferred by wood inhabiting
mushrooms. Slightly fermented substrate, which is traditional
and probably optimum for Volvariella. Composted substrate, i:'
required by Agnricus and other debris inhabiting mushrooms.
All have the common requirement of ligno-cellulose, but other
ingredients depend on processing and the organism under cultivation. Another important common character is that the final
cost, and hence the cost of the ingredients and processing must
be held to a minimum. Mushroom substrates are generally materials that are considered wastes by other industries. The cost of
transportation can easily exceed the value of the material. It is
important that only local wastes are used and that they are used
efficiently. The climate determines which substrates are available, but it also determines which species of mushrooms can be
cultivayd and conditions used in their cultivation. Volvariella is
the onlytruly tropical genera of cultivated mushrooms. However. Pleurom, Auricularia and a few other genera include species
or varieties that are easily adapted to tropical cultivation. Agaricur, the most familiar cultivated mushroom in Western countries
has not been adapted to true tropical cultivation. However, it is
grown in the mountains of tropical regions and rarely, with refrigeration, in the true tropics. In addition to the quirement for
a composted substrate, Agaricus requires a casing layer. It is
common in most of North America and Europe to use peat moss
as casing. Peat moss is expensive and is found primarily in the
coolest parts of the temperate zone. Transportation to tropical
areas makes it generally prohibitive in cost. While peat moss is a
good casing material, research has shown that many substitutes
can be used effectively to give equal mushroom yields.
*LANDANDW(,
SARA, KRISTIANSEN, ROY, and
SCHUMACHER, TROND, Department of Biology, Division of
Botany, P.O. Box 1045 Blindern, Oslo N-03 16,.Norway.
Pindara - a miniature Helvella relative.
Morphological and molecular data, including SSU and partial ITS2
rDNA sequences, suggest that the monotypic genus Pindara is a
member of Helvella (Helvellaceae, Pezizales, Ascomycota). Based
on 43 ascomycete SSU rDNA sequences (1727 bp), parsimoby
and neighbor-joining methods group Pindara with Helvella among
the helvellacean genera Wpnella, Balsarnia, Barssia and
Underwoodia. Partial ITS2 sequences indicate a possible
relationship of Pindara with Helvella macropus and H.
cupuliformis. The divergence in ITS and 5.8 S rDNA sequences in
Helvella is high. The variation in the SSU rDNA is also high, and
show sequences unique to different helvellacean groups. A
description of Pindara ferrestris is provided, illustrated by light
microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images.
LANDOLT, JOHN C., GEISER, LMDA, and STEPHENSON,
STEVEN L., Department of Biology, Shepherd College,
Shepherdstown WV 25443 USA, USDA Forest Service, Siuslaw
National Forest, Corvallis OR 97339 USA, Department of
Biology, Fairmont State College, Fairmont WV 26554 USA,
Dictyostelid cellular slime molds from forest epiphyte
communities.
The soil-like material that accumulates beneath epiphytic
bryophytes and vascular plants occurring on the trunks and
branches of forest trees was investigated for the presence of
dictyostelid cellular slime molds. Forest types from which
samples were collected included temperate moist coniferous
forests of central western Oregon, tropical montane and cloud
forests of the Luquillo Experimental Forest in northeastern Puerto
Rico, and tropical cloud forests and forests transitional between
cloud forests and seasonal dry forests in the Guanacaste
Conservation Area in northwestern Costa R i a . Where data for
ground sites were also available for comparison, species richness
and measurable population densities of dictyostelids were
generally lower in the epiphytic communities than on the ground.
Epiphytes in forests at the very highest elevations sampled tended
to be characterized by the lowest species richness and densities of
dictyostelids. (Supported in part by grants from the National
Geographic Society, the National Science Foundation, and the
West Virginia NASA Space Grant Consortium.)
*LEACOCK, PATRICK R.', and McLAUGHLIN, DAVID J.2,
'Department of Botany, Field Museum of Natural History,
Chicago, IL 60605 and 2Departmentof Plant Biology, University
of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108 USA, Diversity of
ectomycorrhizal fungi in Minnesota's ancient and younger stands
of red pine forest.
The ectomycorrhizal fungal communities of remnant red pine
and northern hardwoodconifer forests were examined in
northern Minnesota. Diversity, species fiequencies, and
fiuitbody densities were obtained in ancient and younger (100
year-old) stands using dispersed, circular, 4-m2 sampling areas
along permanent transects in half hectare plots. The red pine
forest, with eight host tree species dominated by conifers,
harbored a large community of ectomycorrhizal fungi with over
140 species. Abundance measures were surprisingly high, with
two-year species frequencies ranging up to 33% (for Russula
silvicola), a total combined species frequency of98% (only 13 of
600 circles unoccupied), and estimated densities of 9,000 16,000 fiuitbodies/hectare/year. Differences were found in
species composition between the two age classes. Some species
characterized old-growth and others, mature red pine forest.
Cortinarius (with an unknown number of species),Russula, and
Lactarius were major components. Even though frequency and
diversity were slightly less than in younger forest, old-growth
stands had greater total fiuitbody density. The hypothesis that
fungal diversity significantly declines with advanced forest age
is not supported by the 'findings of this study where
ectomycorrhizal species diversity and abundance are maintained
in these old-growth stands.
*LEAL LARA, HERMILO, Depanment of Biotechnologyand
Food Science, ~acultyof Chemistry, UNAM04510 Mexico DF,
Research priorities for production of edible fungi in Mexico.
In Mexico, a few large scale enterprises for Agaricus production
and manv small scale short-lived Pleurotus ~roducershave been
establishkd. The Agaricus market has been iteadily growing for
the last decades and at this moment is larger (70 tonlday) and
more stable than for Pleurotus (5 tonlday). The resulting per
capita consumption rates are, however, very low considering the
mycophagous tradition of Mexican population. Various factors
of technical nature have hindered the development of this industry, affecting operation costs and product quality. Research priorities should be selected according to the relative influence of
production parameters on this two aspects. Although for both
fungi, direct production costs ranges from US $0.60 to 0.83 per
Kg fresh product, operation costs for production of Agancus and
Pleurotus show different structure, i.e. raw materials represent
35 and 9%. labor 22 and 28%. spawn 6 and 14% and fuel 9 and
25% respectively. In regards to Agaricus production, it is of
utmost importance to substitute peat moss by local materials
m a i n t a i n g yields and quality; optimization of yields in bag
culturesand selection of strains with larger fruit bodies, longer
shelf life and better suited for production at high altitudes (more
than 7000 ft above sea level). Many Pleurotus producers came
into business supposing that it can be produced with rather
simple technology and at low costs. However, they have encountered that the widely recommended technology of straw treatment in hot water is very risky and prevents scale up of the
process. Additionally, their unsteady production and the unstable
and rather incipient Pleurotus market has seriously affected
prices and cash flows. Therefore, standardization of substrate
preparation, development of new strains with higher and constant yields, new shapes and colors to improve marketing should
be regarded as research priorities.
*LEBR~N,
LIGIA', BAYMAN, PAUL2,and LODGE, D.
JEAN', 'Institute for Tropical Ecosystem Studies, UPR,Box
363682, San Juan PR 00936, 'Dept. of Biology, Univ. of Puerto
Rico-No Piedras, Box 23360, San Juan PR 0093 1, 'Center for
Forest Mycology Research, US Forest Service, Box 1377,
Luquillo PR 00773, Differences in extramatrical mycorrhizal
hyphae among three cultivars of coffee.
A great coffee is defined not only by its aroma but by its
productivity. The ideal cultivar should produce the highest
yield with the lowest investment in fertilizer. Some cultivars
respond better than others to phosphorus application. Among
common cultivars in Puerto Rico, Caturra is a high yield
cultivar that responds more strongly to phosphorus application
than Criolla. Most phosphorus uptake in coffee is mycorrhizal.
We hypothesized that Caturra responds more to fertilization
because it is less mycorrhizal than other cultivars. In this study
we measured extramatrical mycorrhizal hyphae from soil cores
between planp in each cultivar. The average total length was
32 mm in Caturra, 62 mm in Criolla, and 117 mrn in Catimor.
However, these differences were not significant because of high
variation within cultivars.
'LENNON, PATRICK A,, AND ZACCHARIAS, MAlTHEW,
Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastem Oklahoma
State University, Durant, OK 74701 USA, Various
concentrations of the raspberry-produced fungicide, 2nonanone, either promote or inhibit fungal growth.
LICHTWARDT, ROBERT W., Department of Botauy,
University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA,
Unusual distributions of certain genera and species of
Harpellales (Trichomycetes) that at this time appear to defy
biogeographical explanation.
Recently, fungal isolates bearing microconidia on
polyphlalides and causing sweetpotato chlorotic leaf distortion
were identified a s unusual strains of Fusarium lateritium
(4), pp. 507-509, 1996).
(Nelson et al., Mvcoloak,
However, the polyphialides of these strains most resembled
those of F. scirpi. In this study, we examined antibiotic
resistance of F. scirpi, F. lateritium and the sweetpotato
isolates to a raspberry-produced fungicide, Pnonanone, to
gain insight into the phylogenetic placement of the sweetpotato
pathogens. While the taxonomic placement of Nelson et al. was
supported, we discovered that Pnonanone inhibited fungal
growth at a moderate concentration (0.075% of media) but
promoted fungal growth at both low (0.005%) and high (0.15
and 0.30%) concentrations. These results offer an interesting
propositiw that, at differing concentrations such as might be
seen in raspberry fruit development, a symbiotic relationship
might sometimes be promoted between raspberry and fungi.
Differential 2-nonanone production and symbiotic
raspberrylfungi promotion is currently being tested with
raspberrv pathogens.
Many of the 50 known genera of Harpellales are geographically
widespread. Among them, several examples are provided
whose distributions currently cannot be explained satisfactorily
by invoking dispersion and vicariance theories. The genera
selected for presentation are Harpella, Genistellospora,
Furculomyces, and Carouxella, all living in the hindgut or
midgut of dipteran larvae. Their unexpected distributions
involve either the presence or absence of species in particular
geographic areas of the world. Possible explanations-beyond
considenng that field data may be insufficient in some
cases-are presented.
*LICKEY, EDGAR B., HUGHES, KAREN W., and
PFTERSEN, RONALD H., Department of Botany,
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN,37996-1 100,
USA. Geographic Variation in Clavicoronapyxidata and
Related Species.
LIECKFELDT, ELKE', *SAMUELS, GARY,'.J AND
BORNER, THOMAS', '~umboldt-~niversitiit
Berlin, Institut
fiir BiologieIGenetik, Berlin Germany, 2~ystematicBotany and
Mycology Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Beltsville, MD 20705
.USA, Trichoderma viride: two species?
Clavicoronapyxidata has a wide geographic range,
extinding across temperate and some subtropical regions
of.the Northern Hemisphere; Specimens of Clavicorona
that may represent new species have recently been
collected fiom North Carolina, Puerto Rico. Mexico,
Costa Rica, and Argentina. Approximately 230 cultures of
C. pyxidata and putative new species were analyzed by
restriction hgment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis
of PCR amplified nuclear rDNA ITS1-5.8s-ITS2. RFLP
analysis using the restriction enzyme CfoI has revealed
restriction site differences between Eurasian and North
American C. pyxidata collections and between C. pyxidata
and the putative new species. Other restriction enzymes
are being surveyed to find additional restriction site
differences within and between the geographic and
taxonomic groups. Sequence data of the ITS region are
also being obtained for each of the representative
geographic and taxonomic groups for further analysis.
Trichoderma viride, the type species of Trichoderma
(Ascomycetes, Hypocreales), is easily recognized by its warted
conidia. However, Meyer and Plaskowitz described two distinct
types (I and II) of conidial warts. Meyer later found that each
type is characterized by a unique mtDNA type, and postulated
that each type represents a distinct species.
To test the hypothesis that the traditional concept of T. viride
comprises more than one taxon, we studied T. viride strains and
anamorphs of Hypocrea collections that could be determined as
T. viride as well
conidial ornamentation in the lectotype
specimen of T. viride.
Molecular characters were obtained h m direct sequencing
of the ITS1 and ITS-2 regions of the rDNA gene, sequences of
the endochitinase gene, and RAPDs. Phenotypic characters were
obtained from SEM studies of the conidial surface and growth
rates and colony characters.
Results confirmed the existence of two groups within T.
viride. All of the strains fell into one of the two groups; each
group included Hypocrea s t r a h . According to conidial
ornamentation, the lectotype of T. viride belongs to Type I,.and
thus is 'true' T. viride with H.rufa as its teleomorph. Another
name is needed for Type 11.
*LIOU, SHIAN-REN.. HADDOCK, JEFFREY E.,JAMES,
TIMOTHY Y., AND VILGALYS, RYTAS J., Mycology
Laboratory, Department of Botany, Duke University, Durham,
NC 27708 USA, Comparison of AFLP linkage maps between
Pleurotus djamor and Pleurotus calyprratus.
*LIZO~~,
PAVEL, and ADAM&C,. SLAVOM~R,.Plant
Pathology ~erbarium,Cornell University, Ithaca NY
14853 USA, and Institute of -Botany, Slovak Academy of
Sciences, SK-842 23 Bratislava Slovakia, Preliminary
checklist of Slovak fungi.
The genetics of speciation has undergone a resurgence of
interest recently in plant and animal systems, but only few
studies have been done in fungi. As part of an investigation
into the genetic basis of intersterility and morphological
evolution in oyster mushrooms, we have produced linkage
maps for two species Pleurotus d j m r and Pleurotus
calyptratus using AFLP markers. Based on mating
compatibility studies, P. djamor and P. ca1yptratu.s have been
found to'be lafgely intersterile, dthough hybrid ddcaryons
have been qbtained in rare cases (4%
of intergroup pairings).
Phylogenetic studies based on rDNA sequence data show that
both species are sister groups. In order to examine the role of
chromosomal evolution in speciation, genetic linkage maps
were developed for each species using segregating markers for
AFLP (Adplified Restriction Fragment Polymorphism) along
with 2 mating factor loci and several allozyme loci. For over
160 segregating markers that have been analyzed thus far, only
a small proportion (65 loci) show a simple pattern of
Mendelian segregation. Skewed segregation ratios were
observed for most AFLP markers, with some ratios ranging
upwards to 1:O. From 8-10 linkage groups were identified
from both species. Segregation and linkage analyses are also
being used to study inheritance and linkage relationships
among markers in rare djamor/calyptratus hybrids. These
linkage maps should facilitate future genetic studies "speciation
genes" and other characters in the Pleurotus djamor species
complex.
The current knowledge of fungal biodiversity in
Slovakia reflects the intensity of mycological research
from the past to the present. Although certiilnly the
number of fungal taw exceeds many times that of other
"plants," many fewer records have been available. The
current checklist of non-lichenized fungi (lichenforming fungi are treated separately) is based on
published data. Each entry includes the accepted name,
synonyms, distributional data, bibliographical citation of
record source, IUCN category of threat (if applicable) and
the Slovak vernacular name. Due to the limited
pagination of the book edition, which covers separately
algae, bryophytes, lichens, fungi and phanerogams,
complete distributional data and the bibliography are
available only in the CD-ROMedition.
*LONGCORE, JOYCE E."). PESSIER, ALLAN P.", and
NICHOLS, DONALD K.'2', ")Department of Biological Sciences,
University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5722 USA; "'Department
of Pathology. National Zoological ~ark;SmithsonianInstitution,
Washington, DC 20008 USA, Morphology and zoospore
ultrastructure of a chytrid pathogenic to anuran amphibians.
*LODGE, D. JEAN, NAKASONE, KAREN, BARON!, T.J.,
and RWARDEN, LEIF, Center for Forest Mycology
Research, USDA-Forest Service, Forest Products
Laboratory, Luqulllo PR 00773-1377, Center for Forest
Mycology Research, USDA-Forest Service, One Gifford
Pinchot Drive. Madison VVl 537052398. D e ~ tof
.
Biological sciences, SUNY Cortland, ~ortland,NY
13045, and Botany Department, Inst. of Biology,
University of Oslo, N-0316, Oslo, Norway, The
Basidiomycetes of the Greater Antilles.
A recently discovered'zoosporicfungus from the phylum
Chytridiomycota causes a dermatosis fatal to anuran sfmphibians.
This fungus is of interest mycologically because it is the first
member of the phylum known to cause disease in a vertebrate.
From the ecological perspective, the fungus is important because
of its deleterious effects on populations of anuran amphibians.
We ark studying the development and morphology of the fungus
and the ultrastructure of the zoospore so that this organism can be
named and placed in an appropriate taxon. In the amphibian host.
zoosporangia are in cells of the epidermis and are frequently < 10
pm dia with one inoperculate discharge papilla, whereas, in pure
culture, zoosporangia are frequently > 30 pm dia with.1-3
discharge papillae. Thalli are monocentric and possesses threadlike rhizoids, which is consistent with the morphology of
members of the Chytridiales. When viewed by phase contrast
microscopy, the posteriorly uniflagellate zoospores lack a single
prominent lipid globule, and transmission electron microscopy
confirmed that several lipid globules exist. Although the
morphology of the thallus is Rhizophydium-like, ultrastructural
features of the zoospore differ from the those of the
Rhizophydium sub-type, indicating that a new genus may be
needed to accommodate this species.
This four-year project was initiated in April of 1996 with
funding from the National Science Foundation Biotic
Surveys and Inventories Program (DEB-9525902). Our
goal is to inventory the islands of Puerto Rim, Hispaniola
(Dominican Republic), Jamaica, St. John and nearby
Virgin Islands. From this work, keys and identification
guides to all basidiomycete fungi except rusts will be
produced. The polypore guide and monographs on
Hygrophoraceae, Pluteaceae and Amanitaceae will be
completed~soon,and other groups are in various stages
of preparation. We expect a total of2,200 to 2,500
species including many undescribed taxa. Ultimately, we
hope to illucidate patterns of basidiomycete evolution in
the Antilles. Additional investigators on this grant include
Sharon Cantrell, Julieta Carranza, Roy Halling, Egon
Horak, Karl-Henrik Larsson, Orson K Miller, Jr., Peter
Roberts, Rytas Vilgalys, Omar Paino Perdomo, Angel
Nieves Rivera. and other cooDerators. Some of the more
interesting re&lts from our work will be presented.
*LUTZONI. FRANCOIS and REEB, VALERIE. Department
of Botany, Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at
Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60605 USA, Unequivocal
coding and optimal weighting of ambiguously aligned regions
Of nucleotide sequences.
* LOZADA,
Cand
BETANCOURT,
CARLOS,
University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez Campus,
Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 00 681, PCR-based DNA
fingerprinting of seven Cladosporium species
using the
transcribed spacer from
nuclear ribosomal DNA.
The
transcribed spacer region (ITS)
is a non-coding region between the small
r~bosomalDNA subunit and the large
nuclear
ribosomal
DNA
subunit.
SOme
certified Cladosporium species were studied
to compare the ITS in length and restriction
patterns. The Internal Transcribed Spacer
was
amplified
using
Polymerase
Chain
Reaction (PCR) combining primers ITS1 and
ITS4 PCR products were digested with four
restriction enzymes and separated by agarose
electrophoresis. Restriction patterns were
visualized
by
staining
with
ethidium
bromide Restriction patterns generated ~ f
and M ~ Iwere unique for most species
analyzed, providing another useful tool for
characterization of Cladosporium species.
.
Among the most fundamental steps in systematics studies are
the definition of characters, their homology and their coding:
These issues are treated very unevenly among molecular
systematists, ranging from the exclusion of all ambiguously
aligned regions to the inclusion of every single site of a given
alignment. These different approaches often have a significant
effect on the resolving power and support (bootstrap and decay
values) of a given data set and can lead to very different
conclusions. The problem occurs in regions where there is a
concentration of indels andlor saturation of base substitutions.
Often, in such regions, there is more than one optimal alignment
no matter which optimization criterion is used. Frequently,
these equally optimal alignments provide different phylogenetic
relationships, where only one can be correct. In such cases
there is no objective way to choose among the different
alignments, and homology criteria are violated. The most
o conservative
~
approach in such c ~ ~ c u R ~ s is
~ ~to~exclude
c ~ s
these
regions from the. phylogenetic analyses. One disadvantage to
this exclusion procedure is the resultantloss of resolution when
it is often clear that there is,some phylogenetic signal present in
these regions. The problem with including these regions is the
inability to justify one alignment over another and the greater
potential to generate a'highly resolved but artifactual tree. A
new method will be presented that allows the inclusion of
ambiguously aligned regions without violating homology
criteria. It consists of an a priori and unequivocal coding of
these ambiguously .aligned regions coupled with a weighting
scheme that takes into consideration the length of the regions,
the relative similarities and minimum number of changes among
nucleotide sequences.
33
*MA,LIJUN, CATRANIS,CATHY,M.,
STARMER,WILLIAM T
and ROGERS ,SCOTT 0.,
SUNY, College of Environmental and
Forestry Science, *~epartmentof Biology,
Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY13210,
Study of Glacial Ice---a source of
ancient fungi
.',
Glacial ice is a unique source of
contemporary and ancient microorganisms.
Spores from throughout the world were
deposited in the ice through the actions
,of wind, clouds precipitation, volcanism,
animals and others. We have isolated over
2 0 0 fungi from the inner portions of
Greenland ice cores up to 21,000 yearold. The isolates from the 21,000 yearold,ice core were carefully studied,
usina morphological, cultural and
molecuIar characters. DNA sequences were
aLso obtained directly from the ice melt
of the same core, using polymerase chain
reaction (PCR) amplification and
sequencing. The results of the morphology
and sequence ,comparison, as well as
phylogenetic analysis incorporating
sequences from contemporary fungi, will
be presented.
*MARRA, ROBERT E., and MILGROOM, MICHAEL G.,
Dept. of Plant Pathology. Cornell University, Ithaca NY 14853
USA, Selfing and the self-incompatibility system of
Cryphonectriaparasitica.
Although .Cryphonectria parasitica has a bipolar sexual
incompatibility system (heterothallic, with two idiomorphs at a
single UAT locus), a significant amount of selfing (-25%)
occurs in natural populations. In laboratory matings, while
outcrossing occurs readily, selfing is rare. Both idiomorphs of
the MAT locus have been cloned and sequenced; as in other
ascomycetes, the UAT-1 and MAT-2 idiomorphs share no
apparent common ancestor. The presence of UAT-1 or UAT-2
DNA, based on Southern hybridizations, correlates 100% with
laboratory mating assays. Selfing results in "clonal ascospore"
progeny that segregate in Mendelian fashion (1: 1) for the MAT
idiomorphs, even though the parent, like all isolates studied to
date, hybridizes to only MAT- 1 or UAT-2. However, PCR
amplifications using idiomorph-specific primers show that the
"alternate" idiomorph is present in most isolates at a very low
titer, suggesting that it is extrachromosomal. We occasionally
find conidia (which function as spermatia) whose mating-type
is opposite that of their parent and sibling conidia. We
propose that, at some point prior to plasmogamy, a matingtype switch occurs, resulting in a portion of conidia that are
sexually compatible with receptive hyphae, with whom they
are now isogenic except at the UAT locus. The disparity
between selfing rates in nature versus the lab suggests that this
mating-type switch is influenced by environmental factors.
which are under investigation.
'MA, LIJUN, FEISSNER, ROB F., WANG, CHUN J.K.,
and ROGERS, SCOTT O., . Faculty of Environmental
and Forest Biology, State University of New York
College of Environmental Science and Forestry,
Syracuse, NY 13210 USA, Effects of an orchid
isolate of Phialocephala forfinii on conifers.
Phialocephala fortinii has been described as a
pseudomywrrhizal.
An
pathogen
or
as
endosymbiont isolate from the orchid, Luetkea
pectimata, was used .to inoculate roots of Pinus
resinosa and Pinus strobus seedlings under sterile
conditions. Four other mycorrhizal fungi (Hebeloma
westaustraliensis, Phial~phora tinlandia, Pilodenna
bicolor, and . Soillus subluteus) were used to
inoculate seedlings of the same tree species. All
four of the latter fungal species produced healthy
seedlings, while the seedlings inoculated with
Phialocephala forfinii were either chlorotic; stunted,
or died. Morphological characterizations will be
presented.
*MARTINEZ-CARRERA, D., College of Postgraduates in
Agricultural Sciences, Mushroom Biot@~ology, Apartado
Postal 701, Puebla 72001, Puebla, Mexlco. Importance of
mushroom biotechnology in tropical America
Compared to Asia or Europe, empirical methods for mushroom
cultivation were not developed in tro ical America. Cultivation
of edible mushmoms started in 193fb ada ting simple technologies in central Mexico, followe by r entina (l941),
Colombia (1950). Brazil (1951), Chile (19!9), Guatemala
(1960), Peru (1960), Ecuador (1967), Venezuela (1968), Costa
Rica (1969), and Bolivia (1989). At present, Agaricus and
Pleurom are the most important mushrooms produced, Lentinula (shiitake) cultivation is gaining importance. Annual production in Latin America has been estimated to be about 50,000
tonnes, worth more than 120 million dollars and generating at
least 30,000 jobs. Production has evolved through private
commercial enterprises. However, research work since 1989
explored a new approach with enormous potential: rural roduction of edible mushrooms for local or regional needs. n Latin
in rural areas are performed as
easants or ethnic indigenous groups.
and social research carried out on a
from Mexico, led to the development
transfer, which incorporated mushroom biotechnology in rural development Social, economic, and
ecological advantages, as well as limitations, have been defmed.
The conce ts of mushroom cultivation at conpercial, cornmety, and seg-consumption levels, are bein Integrated into mproved systems of traditional a riculture. T%epotential contribution of mushroom cultivation nual and pnvate enterprise to
food production, sustainable agriculture, and rural development
is discussed. The establishment of a research centre on mushroom biotechnology or an integrated regional network of collaboration are pro osed to meet research challenges of mushroom
cultivation in Latin America, considering the present world
context of global economies, market competition, and free trade
d R
P
f
MATA, GERARD0 ' AND SAVOIE, JEAN-MICHEL,
INRA-CR de Bordenui, Station de Recherches Sur Les
Champignons, B.P. 81-33883 Villenave D8Omon Cedex,
France. Shiitake cultivation on wheat straw: nutritional
adaptation and antagonistic relation with Tricl~oderntasp.
,
The edible fimgi Lentinula edodes, shiitake, was studied in a
program to improve cultivation. The work focussed on the adaptation
mecanisms of shiitake in wheat straw culture. The results show that
nutritional adaptation of strains for durable exploitation of resources
and the production of precocious and abundant shiitake in straw
cultures is associated with vigorous mycelium in the inoculum, the
initial speed of colonisation of the substrate, and the ability to exploit
carbon celluloses in straw. Changes in the production of exhacellular
enzymes during the cycle of straw cultivation shows that greater
variations in .the activities of certains enzymes such as lacwe, 0mannosidase and Mn-peroxidase correlates to the presence of the
mould Trichoderma sp. The production of extracellular laccases is
associated with the defensive mechanism of shiitake when confronted
by Trichoderma sp. and this results in the formation of a brown line
at the coniact region. The approach studies in greater depth the
induction of the production of laccases by shiitake mycelium in
confrontation with Trichodertna sp. Electrophoretic analysis enabled
quantitative measurement of the production of some isoformes of
laccases produced by shiitake mycelium. Some comparisons between
Lentinula edodes and the American species Lentinula boryana were
also undertaken.
*MAT& JUAN L., Universidad de Costa Rica, Escuela de
Biologia, San JosQ C.R. Ecology of the Agaricales on the
southwestern slopes of P o h Volcano National Park, Costa Rica.
In recent years there has been an increase in studies on the
higher hngi in the Neotropics. Some of these studies have
helped in the documentation of diversity and distribution of the
Agaricales. My study was part of NSF project "Agaricales of
the Costa Rican Quercus forests" (G.M. Mueller and RE.
Halling, Co-PIS).
All basidiomata of the Agaricales were collected within fixed
plots on the slopes of Po& Volcano, about 60 km north of San
JosB. A total of 182 species in 40 genera were collected in the
study area: The family Tricholornataceae was best represented.
with 69 species in 19 genera. The genus Mycena held 27 species
but one species of Marasmius (sect. Globulares) accounted for
15% of aH,collected fungi and was present in 90% of the plots.
Examples of some of these agarics are presented. Most of the
saprobic species were collected on woody substrates rather than
on leaves or soil. Also, there were twice as many saprobes as
ectomycorrhizal agarics. Weekly visits in the months of May to
November during the rainy seasons of 1994 and 1995 allowed
comparison of fruiting patterns againstarainfall distribution in
the arel
PresenLaddress: Dept. of Botany, Univ. Tennessee, Knoxville,
TN 37996 US.A
' Corrupondig author. Present adrus: Inrtltuto dc Ecologfa, Dcpartimento
hoagos. Apartado Postal 63,Xalapa, Vcracruq Mixico.
E-mail: [email protected]~mx
MCCLENEGHAN',S. COLEMAN, and HUGHES~,KAREN
W. ,'~e~arttnent
of Biology, Appalachian State University,
Boone, NC 28608, USA, '~epartment ofBotany, University of
Tenicssec, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA, Genetic study on
Pleirrotus 4 m o r (Fr.) Boedijn.
The status of the Pleirrotirsdjomor (Fr.) Boedijn complex, a
widespread tropical to subtropical group, has historically been
based on coloration of the pileus and geographical origin. Names
such as P. opi~rrtiae(Dur & Lev.) Sacc. refer to New Zealand
collections of a gray fibrillose form, P.salmor~eo.vtramineitsVas.
refers to Asian and Japanese collections of a pink form, and P.
o.vI~'cn/oro.~~t~~v
Sing. rcfcrs to rosey collections from northern
Brazil. Names of the I.? djomor species complex have vacillated
from varietial rank to species rank. A previous study using
n~orpllologicalcliaracters and tlie ability to intercross irt vilro
found no clear or consistent distinction among isolates
rcprcsenting tlie various color and geograpliical forms. Analysis
of restriction fragment length polymorphisms of PCR
amplification products from the nuclear ribosomal ITS1-5.8sITS2 are congruent with previous morphological and fertility
studies in showing a lack of distinction among these isolates.
IMCDANIEL, DENNIS P., and ROBERSON, ROBERT W.,
Department of Plant Biology, Box 871601, Arizona State
University, Tempe AZ 85287 USA, Localization of y-tubulin to
the Spitzenkarper of Allomyces macrogymrs.
A monoclonal antibody was used to detect y-tubulin in hyphal
tip cells of Allomyces macrogymrs. y-Tubulin distribution was
determined with light and electron microscopy using standard
immunolocalization methods. Immunoblot techniques were also
employed. Immunofluorescenceandlor immunoelectron
microscopy revealed that y-tubulin was localized to the
SpitzenkBrper, centrosomes, and to the spindle apparatus.
Immunoblot analysis of total soluble protein extracts separated
by one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel
electrophoresis identified a single polypeptide with an
approximate molecular weight of 52 kilodaltons. Localization
of y-tubulin to the Spitzenk6rper ofA. macrogvnus provides
additional evidence that the SpitzenkOrper finctions as a
microtubde organizing center in this fungus.
*METHVEN, ANDREW S.', W L I N G , ROY. EZ,and
FRANCO, ANA E?, 'Botany Department, Eastern IllEnois
University, Charleston, IL 61920-3099, New York Botanical
Garden, Bronx, NY 10458, 3Dept. de Biologia, Universidad de
Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. Three new species of
Lactarius associated with Colombobalanus in the highlands of
Colombia.
*MCKEMY, JOHN M., ROGERS, SCOTT O., AND WANG,
C.J.k. Faculty of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY
13210 USA, Taxonomy of the hyphomycete fungus
Phialophora heteromorpha.
Phialophora heteromorpha, a causal agent of blue-stain in
wood, was originally described as Trichoqorium
heteiomorphuk in 1934. Since that time,several taxonomic
name changes have been proposed. In this study,
morphological and molecular sequence data were used to
ascertain its phylogenetic placement among other members of
the black-yeasts, including species in the anamorphic genera
Cladophialophora, Exophiala, Fonsecaea, Phialophora, and
Wangiellaas well as several teleomorphic species belonging
to the genus Cqronia. The ribosomal DNA (rDNA) ITS
region and a portion of the small subunit (SSU) were
sequenced. Maximum parsimony analysis indicates a.close
relationship between P. heferomoq.haand several isolates of
Wangella aknnatitidis. Cultural studies also indicate a close
relationship based on morphology. Discussion conceniing the
taxonomic disposition of P. heferomorphawill be discussed.
The Russulaceae forms a significant component of the agaric
mycota which is ectomycorrhizal with members of the
Fagaceae in the northern hemisphere. Field work in the
Colombobalanus excelsa forests in Colombia uncovered three
undescribed species of Lactarius, two in Section Plinthogalus
and one in Section Russulares. These three taxa represent the
first report of Lactarius species as putative ectomycorrhizal
associates with Colombobalanw.excelsa. Each of these taxa
will be l l l y described, discussed and illustrated. The
significanceof this discovery and its relationship with ongoing
studies of ectomycorrhizal fungi associated with representatives
of the Fagaceae in Central and South America will also be
discussed.
*MIGNUCCI, JULIA S., HERNANDEZ,CARLOS, RIVERAVARGAS, LYDIA, BETANCOURT, CARLOS, and
ALAMEiDA, MYRNA, Depts. of Crop Protection and Biology,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, PR 00680, Research on
diseases and pests of Pleurotus spp. in Pu~RoRico.
'MILLER, ANDREW N., and METHVEN, ANDREW S.,
Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607-7060, and Botany Dept.,
Eastern Illinois University, Charleston IL 61920-3099,
Biological species concepts in eastern North American
populations of Lentinellusursinus.
Tdchoderma haeanum reduced PleurotuspuImo~dusand P.
ostreatus production surface. Aspergillus spp, Penicillium spp,
Monilia sitophila, Stemonitis spp. and Coprinus spp. contaminate pleurotus cultures. Themophilic fungi were reduced and
mushroom yield increased, by dividing the pasteurization into
each with 48 hrs at room temperature
two cycles of 65 (-1 6
in between. c&bonyum
&ndroi&s was pathogenic to Pleuratus spp. colonizing the basidiocarp. It produces a violaceousredish pigmentation and a soft rot. A yellow blotch caused by
Pseudomnas cepacia was identifed on pleurotus pileus at high
humidity. The insects causing losses of Pleurotus spp, include
Lepidocyrtus ramosi, Sciarid and Phorid flies. An integrated
sustainable management program without pesticides based on
pasteurization and
pnvention was designed (optimum
sanitary
ioJeet
by baaierss
and
ing design;remova1 Of diseased Or contaminated units; optimum
reduction Of mPing qcles mO;
use Of
kg production
to
pmgm imp1ementztion).
AS pad of a biosystematic study of the Lentinellus ursinus
species complex, field and herbarium specimens from
Central America, and Europe were
examined. Single basidiospore isolates from basidiomata
collected in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota,
Missouri, Tennessee, N0dh Carolina, and Wisconsin
Were crossed in all possible combinations to determine
the mating system operating in each population. AJI
~ ~ ~ u l a t iexhibited
ons
bifactorial (tetrapolar) mating
systems. Tester strains were then crossed to identify
intercompatible populations and to determine If
morphological species in the L. ursinus species complex
are congruent with biological species. Three biological
species were recognized and identified as L. ursinus, L.
anpustifolius, and L vulpnus. Polyspore isolates were
subsequently used in culture mat and phenoloxidase
analyses to facilitate identification of somatic cultures.
The production of gloeocystidia andlor chlamydorpores is
taxonomically important for identifying somatic cultures of
these species. All three taxa produced laccase,
tyrosinase, and peroxidase in culture and were identified
as white-rot fungi.
36
*MIL.LER, ORSON K. JR., Dept. of Biology, Virginia Tech.,
Bkicksburg, VA 24061 USA and LODGE, D. JEAN Ctr.
Forest. Mycology Research, USDA, Forest Semce, P R,00721
USA, Observations on species of Amanita associated with
Pinus occidentalis in the Dominican Republic.
The focus of the study is the ectornycorrhizal fungi associated
with the only host, P. occidentalis, in the Dominican Republic.
At least nine species of Amanitcr have been found to date. There
are at least six species with amyloid spores in the subgenus
Lepidella. Amanita polypramis in section Lepidella, subsection
Solitaria is included. In addition, A. c j citrina, section
Phalloidae has been found along with four species which are
as yet unidentified. One taxon in section Amidella has a saccate
volva and two taxa, in section Phallolidae, have gray to graybrown universal veils and subglobose spores. The fourth taxon
in section Lepidella, has a white universal veil and broadly
elliptic spores. Three species are placed in the subgenus
Amanita including A. gemmata,which is very common over the
elevational gradient, and a single record of A. pantherim var
velatipes. The third unidentified taxon, Amanita [OKM26806],
has a distinctive rusty orange mealy universal veil and lower
surface of the partial veil combined with amyloid, globose to
subglobose spores. It appears to be new to science. The pine
forests are naturally occurring fiom 1050 m to 2430 m elev in
pure stands and mixed forest The'habit, habitat, and elevational
distribution of the fungi are discussed both in relation to the
genus Amanita and to the overall distribution of other
ectomycorrhizal fungi throughout the pine forest.
*MOMANY, MICHELLE, and RICHARDSON,
ELIZABETH A., Department of Botany, University
of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA, Ultrastructure
of septa from wild-type Aspergillus nidulans fixed
by freeze substitution.
The filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans
partitions its cells by laying down septa at
regularly spaced intervals in response to nuclear
division. Physiological and genetic studies of the
temperature-sensitive sep mutants have been
especially useful i n dissecting the regulation of
septation. Electron microscopic studies of the sep
mutants should be equally useful i n dissecting the
structural intermediates of septation.
In
preparation for ultrastructural studies of the sep
mutants, we have examined septa in wild-type A.
nidulans fixed by freeze substitution. This method
provides
exceptional
preservation
of
microfilaments, microtubules, and Spitzenkorperlike collections of vesicles a t the tip of the hypha.
MONEY, NICHOLAS P., Department of Botany, Miami
University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA, Recognizing complexity:
the mechanics of invasive hyphal growth.
*MOORE DONNA L and FkE,DERICK W. SPIEGEL,
Department of Biological Sciences. University of Arkansas.
Fayetteville, AR 72701 USA. Ecology of protostelids in the
Caribbean National Forest,Puerto Rico,
Fungi encounter a complex series of mechanical obstacles of
varying strength when they grow through soils, biological
debris, and living tissues. Mycelia alter the consistency of
their microenvironment by secreting enzymes and acids,
enabling them to proliferate with apparent-easewithin almost
every naturally-occurring organic m a t e i i (and even certain
rocks). But unless hyphae liquefy the substrate they must apply
force in a controlled fashion during invasive growth, and
continuously adjust the magnitude of this force to meet the
changing demands of the substrate. Experiments on oomycetes
suggest that the invasive force produced by hyphae depends
upon a dynamic interplay between three variables: (i) cellular
turgor pressure, (ii) cytoskeletal activity, and (iii) mechanisms
that control wall-yielding. A simple model predicts the
magnitude of the invasive force from the interactions between
these factors, and experiments are in progress to measure the
microNewton forces generated by individual hyphae. These
experiments are a key feature of efforts to understand the
fundamental processes involved in fungal pathogenesis, because
it is apparent that the physical attributes of particular strains
must be considered as virulence factors in diseases of both
plants and humans.
Protostelids are a group of simple mycetcmamcharacterized by a
single spore at the tip of a delicate acellular stalk. Research in
temperate forests and grasslands shows that some protostelid
species exhibit a preference for either the aerial or leaf litter
microhabitat, while others appear to be cosmopolitan in
distribution. A similar research project was designed to test the
hypothesis that the same relationships between protostelid species
and microhabitat type observed in temperate habitats also exist in
the tropics. Four different tropical rainforest types were selected in
the Caribbean National Forest, Puerto Rim. Segments of sterile
wheat straw were introduced into aerial and leaf litter mimhabitats
and collected weekly for 9 weeks. Species found to prefer either
aerial or leaf litter microhabitats in temperate foreas did not exhibit
a preference for microhabitat in the tropical forests. Two species
that prefer d a l mimhabitats in temperate habitats, Rotosteliwn
mycophaga. and Solifonnovum irregularis,were fare in both
microhabitits in tropical forests. Species richness and diversity
were greatest in aerial microhabitats when compared with liner
microhabitats. For two of the most abundant species,
Nematostelirun gracile and Schizoplamodwpsis pseukwndospora,
the total number of colonies in each microhabitat appeared to
change as forest
changed. However, further testing should be
done before'interpreting the s i g n f i c e of this phenomenon.
These results suggest that the relationships between protostelids
md microhabitat type in tropical forests do not follow the same
rends as those in temperate habitats.
MORA CABREMI D. M.. 'RAMIREZ CARRILLO* R.* and
LEAL LAM. H., Department of Biotechnolo~~
and Food
science. Faculv of
UNAM* 04M0
D.F.
Genetic improvement of acellulolytic progenies of PIeumtfus.
*MOY, MELINDA L., BELANGER, Fc., SECKS,
MARGARET, MURPHY, JAMES A., m,
J-s
F.
JR. D e p a m e n t of Plant Patholom, C m k College, Rutgers
University,
New Brunswick, NJ 08903 USA.
Characterization of host responses to infection by selected
endophyte genotypes.
Attempting to develop a process for c ~ v e n i o n of
lianocellulosic wastes to edible mushroom for human
consumption and a substrate with low lignin content for
animal consumption, acellulolytic strains of 'Pleurotus
ostreatus were produced by mutation. These mutants and
the acellulolytic strains recovered from the first breeding
improvement step were slow growing and most of them
could not propagate in the substrate.
However, vigorous strains are necessary to consider
acellulolytic Pleurotus strains for commercial production.
Recovering acellulolytic strains' in progenies from dikaryons
produced by pairing an acellulolytic mutant and a wild
vigorous monokaryon proved to be rather difficult since
acellulolytic monokaryons were present in a very low
proportion in such progenies (2 to 3 %). In order to increase
the proportion of monokaryons with the acellulolytic
character, progenies were recovered from pairings of two
compatible acellulolytic monocaryons. In such progenies,
55 % of the recovered monokaryons were acellulolytrc and
they were equally distributed among the 4 mating types.
~
Presently nothing is known about the compatibility of
endophytes and grasses. As the number of biological and
economic advantages of endophyteinfeded grasses grows,
the requirement for understanding their mechanisms of
compatibility becomes evident. A multitude of factors,
biotic and abiotic, may be involved in the development of
these mutualistic relationships. We have developed a
number of endophyte positive fine fescue clones b y
inoculating each of them with the endophytes found in
strong creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, and Poa
ampla. Seeds from these inoculated clones were planted
and the resulting progeny were analyzed for endophytic
infection. To gain some insight o n the mechanisms of
compatibility, w e analyzed infected hosts' responses to
their respective endophytes. Ecological and physiological
studies, including physical and chemical modifications of
host tissue at various developmental stages were assessed.
Initially, cellular, and subcellular changes in the hosts
were examined. These results may b e the first step
towards increasing our understanding of the barriers that
must b e overcome for a n endophyte to successfully
colonize and subsequently influence the activities of
grasses.
*MUELLER, GREGORY M.1, LEACOCK, PATRICK R.1.
and MURPHY, JOHN F.2, ]Department of Botany, Field
Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL 60605 and Weep
Springs College, Deep,Springs, CA, Rapid methods for
assessing the diversity b d distribution of macrofungi.
Macrofungi are a focus group in a program to develop rapid
methods for surveying and monitoring plants, animals, and
fungi of Illinois forests, prairies, and wetlands. Four
northeastern Illinois sites were sampled for macrofungi in 1997,
one each of oak woodland, savanna, tall grass prairie, and
dolomite prairie. Comparative data were available from a longer
term,intensive survey project that is ongoing at the oak
woodland site. At each site, forty 25 m2 circular plots were
distributed along parallel transects, and all macrofungi were
sampled from each plot. Sampling was undertaken three times
during the fruiting season, once each in July, August, and
September. Sampling times were selected to optimize diversity
based on our lcnowledge of regional fruiting phenology obtained
through intensive field work during the last 4 years. Each site
had a distinctive community of taxa with little overlap of species
between grassland and forest sites. Based on the oak woodland
site data, the employed rapid methods capture a similar picture of
macrofungal diversity as traditional survey protocols, but at a
lower effort level. These protocols should enable teams to 1)
develop baseline information of macrofungal communities in
different environments and 2) monitor change in macrofungi
diversity and distribution over time. Rapid Assessment
Programs (RAP) have proven very useful for obtaining vital
diversity and distribution data on vascular plants and many
animal groups in tropical countries. Our data indicate that
modifications of RAP protocols should also prove useful for
temperate regions in developed countries.
*MlJNKACSI, AB.', LARSON, AM.', VESELENAK, J.M.',
and ZETTLER, L.w'. '~iologyDepartment, University of
Illinois-Springfield, Springfield, IL 62794, '~e~artrnent
of
Biology, Illinois College, Jacksonville, IL 62650, Systematics of
Epulorhiza sp. and Moniliopsis sp., basidiomycetous
endomycorrhizae of Spiranthesmagnicamporum, a threatened
Illinois orchid.
38
The process for the identification of members of the Rhizoctonia
complex is reported via a systematic analysis of Eplrlorhiza sp.
and Moniliopsis sp. (Basidiomycotina). The Orchidaceae are the
only family of plants that rely on mycotrophy for metabolism and
development. Roots of a mature Spiranthesmagnicamporum
specimen, an orchid native to calcareous Midwestern prairies,
were collected from Meredosia Nature Preserve, sectioned, and
fingal-infected cortical cells were plated on modified MelinNorkrans agar. Emerging hyphae were subcultured on potato
dextrose agar to yield discernible morphological and cultural
characteristics. Morphological criteria included monilioid cells,
clamp connections, and septal ultrastructure. Production of
cellulase and polyphenol oxidase were indicative of ecological
dynamics. Sequences of the entire ITS 1.5.8 S, and ITS 2
regions, and a 350-bp region of the mitochondrial large subunit
ribosomal RNA gene revealed the phylogenetic relatedness of the
isolates among Basidiomycetes and orchidaceous mycorrhizae.
Host specificity of these endophytes was screened via asymbiotic
and symbiotic seed germination with S. magnicamporum,
Spiranthes spp. and other members of the Orchidaceae, and nonorchid plants.
MUNOZ-VAZQUEZ, JOSE1 and *NIEVES-RIVERA,
ANGEL M.2 'Department of Hurnanisties, Inter American
University, Aguadilla PR 00603 USA, and 2Department of
Marine Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez PR
0068 1 USA. A new interpretation towards Taino Indianis
cohoba idols and pots-mushrooms effigies?.
'
A possible representation of a mushroom was recorded among
cohoba icemisi (idols or effigies of good spirits) and, ipotizasi
(pots) worshiped by Taino Indians of.the Greater ,Antilles.
Traditionally, sexual interpretations were given to many of the
figurines or idols. From historical documents, ethnology and
archeological evidence, one can infer: (1) there are
morphological similarities along Maya mushroom stones and
Tainois cohoba cemis and potizas; (2) the importance of fungi
in ceremonial rituals among Taino Indians has been ignored;
(3) a possible relationship could be found among the
distribution of hallucinogenic mycobiota in the Caribbean and
taino sites. However, meither documents, nor archaeological
evidence to date reveals other plants or fungi used for the
cohoba ceremony (Tainois hallucinogenic spiritual ritual).
Nevertheless, we often neglect the secretiveness surrounding
some aboriginal rituals. This could explain the lack of
historical information regarding the use of hallucinogenic
fungi among Taino Indians.
*NIEVES-RIVERA, ANGEL M.1, and BETANCOURT,
CARLOS2 IDeprtrhnent of Marine Sciences, University of
Puerto rim, Mayagutz PR 0068 1 USA; and 2Department of
Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Mayagutz PR 0068 1
USA. Hymenomycetes and gasteromycetes of Mona Island,
Puerto Rico.
Twenty-seven species of hymenomydtes and gasteromycetes
are reported for Mona island, Commonwealth reserve, Puerto
rico, among the following orders:11 Agaricales, 13
Aphylloforales, lDacrymycetales, 1 Phallales, and 1
Sclerodermatales. Sixteen new records for Mona Island are
reported: Agaricusjohmtonii, Coprinus cf. Ephemerus, C. cf.
Plicatilis, Crinipellis septoptricha, Dacryopinax sparhularia,
Gloeophyllum striatum, Gymnopilus sp., Leucocoprinus
birnbaumii, Marasmiellus cf. Semiustus, Pleurotus djamour,
Plyporus tricholomo, Psathyrella sp., Russula littoralis,
Trogia cantharelloides, Clathrus crispus, and Sclerangiurn
bermudense. Schizophillum commune is reported as a new
record for Monito Island. The most common and widespread
fungi in Mona Island were: C, septoptricha,D.spathularia,
Hexagonia hydnoides, PheNinus dependens, Pycnoporus
sanguineus and S. commune.
*Nelson, Rex T. and Cochrane, Bruce J., Dept. of Biology,
University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33549 USA, Evidence
for hypemutation in Basidiobolus.
Members of the genus Basidiobolus (Ediam, 1886) are
common saprophytic fungi. This haploid fungus has a sexual
phase but is considered homothallic and as such, its
reproduction is essentially clonal. Studies of isolates recovered
from the environment demonstrate that there exists a great
amount of variation within and between populations of this
fungus. RAPD analysis of isolates recovered from the
University of South Florida's Ecology Study Area indicate that
virtually each isolate is genetically unique. Sequencingof a
fragment of the chitin synthase gene revealed an
extraordinarily high number of substitutions among isolates. In
order to determine whether sequence variation is generated
during sexual reproduction ,sequences were obtained fiom
single zygospore and conidia cultures fiom a single isolate.
The sequlpce obtained from one of the progeny isolates
differed at 10% of 601 sites when compared to the parent. All
of the substitutionswere synonymous third base substitutions.
Sequencing of a fragment of an unrelated gene similar to the
RAN gene product of Saccharomyces cerevisiae reveal no
sequence differences between the parent and progeny. The
spontaneous mutation frequency was estimated to be 3.2 x lo-'.
Implications of these observations will be discussed.
*NIY SHANNON S. and DIGHTON, JOHN, Rutgers
University Pielands Field Station, New Lisbon, NJ 08064
USA, Community response of phylloplane hngi to fire in the
New Jersey Pine Barrens.
The needles of Pitch Pine(Pinus rigida) have been observed to
turn chlorotic followed by necrosis after prescribed bums were
conducted by the Forest F i e Service in the New Jersey Pine
Barrens. To determine how this disturbance affects the
assemblages of phylloplane fungi, a pilot study is currently
underway. Three sites in Lebanon State Forest were chosen
for this study: a control(no bum), a prescribed burn, and a
high intensity bum. The sites are sampled before burning,
immediately following the iire, and a month after burning.
Needles fiom each site are gathered fiom three height levels
for each tree sampled and a portion is aseptically weighed and
transferred to sterile water dilution tubes immediately after
collection for analysis. Needle inhabiting fungi are identified
using a serial dilution plate method and direct plate
inoculation. Fatty acid methyl ester analyses are also employed
to assess the community diversity of the phylloplane b g i .
Results will be presented discussing changes arising in
phylloplane fingal assemblages due to bum regime in relation
to the changes that occur in the needle surface chemistry.
*NORVELL,LORELEI L.and 2 ~ O G ~JUDY.
R , *PNW Mycology Service,
Portland, OR 97229-1309 USA and '6615 Tudor Court, Gladstone, OR
97027-1032 USA. The Oregon Cantharellus Study Roject: Pacific Golden
Chanterelle preliminary observations and productivity data (1986-1997).
Cuntharellus fonnosw (the Pacific Golden Chanterelle) is the principal
choice edible ectomycorrhizal chanterelle commercially harvested fiom
Pacific Northyest (British Columbia, Washington, Oregon and California)
coastal forests. In 1986 the Oregon Mycological Society initiated North
America's longest continuous investigation into the impact of harvesting on
subsequent productivity. A total of ten individual plots (in three replicate
blocks) were established in a 120-year old Tsuga-Pseudotsugastand in the
buffer zone of Portland's Bull Run watershed in Mt. Hood National Forest.
Within the plots 290 species of fungi (123 mycorrhizal, 104 terricolous
saprophytes, 56 lignicolous saprophytes and parasites, 7 fungal parasites)
have been recorded. Since 1986 volunteer researchers have tracked 5466
chanterelles (individually numbered, flagged, measured and mapped) every
two weeks 6rom July to December. Beginning in 1989 all chanterelles over 1
cm in diameter have been removed by cutting (3 plots) or pulling (3 plots),
weighed before and after drying to determine biomass and retained for
future molecular analysis; the remaining four non-harvest plots are
monitored as controls.
Nine years of harvesting data indicate that removal of chanterelles may
slightly stimulate subsequent chanterelle productivity (measured both as
numbers of basidiomes and as biomass) in the short term. A statistically
significant positive correlation between mean summer temperatures and
numbers of chanterelles is suggested, but there appears to be little to no
correlation between productivity and harvesting method. Other observations
include the relatively slow growth rate (e.g., expansion of the pileus
diameter at a rate of 2-5 cml month) and long life span with fruiting bodies
observed in situ as long as 90 days. Factors that may influence productivity
include canopy cover, short and long tam weather patterns, and the
presence of coarse woody debris. The internationally recognized study
demonstrates how collaboration between professionals and amateurs (who
have together thus far generously donated nearly 5000 hours of labor) can
contribute significant and valuable scientific knowledge.
OVERTON, BARRIE E., and SUNDBERG, WALTER J.,
Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; Carbondale IL,
62901-6509 USA. Notes on the genus Spinellus.
Species of the genus Spinellus Tiegh. (Zygomycetes,
Mucorales) are found growirlg in associaeon with moribund
fruitbodies of basidiomycetes. The taxonomy of this group bas
not been recently evaluated and several species of Spinellus are
only known h m the original description. The collection of
Spinellus spp. in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Michigan, as
well as the isolation of Spinellus chaybleus (Dozy and
Molkenboer) Vuillemin mark the first time these species have
been reported from the Midwest and North America,
respectively. Sporangiospore morphology was statistically
evaluated from selected herbarium specimens and field
collections of Spinellus. Sporangiospores were found to be of
three basic types consistent with the available drawings for S.
fusiger (Fries) van Tieghem., S. chaybleus, and S. macrocarpus
(Corda) Karsten. Species were delimited using overall shape as
the primary characteristic; oblongellipsoid with rounded ends
in S. fusiger and S. chaybleus, or fhiform with acutely tapering
ends in S. macrocarpus. Sporangiosporesh m isolates of S.
chaybleus and S. marrocgrown in-vitro became
significantly longer and thinner at 14 C,and significantly
shorter and wider at 23 C. Therefore, sporangiospore
measurements are suggested as important secondary key
characteristics and the use of Naumov's (1939) key in place of
keys by Zycha (1935,1969) is implied.
*ORTIZ, BEATRIZ and BETANCOURT, CARLOS,
University of Pyerto Rico-Mayaguez Campus,
Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 00681, Agaricales
(Basidiomycota: Holobasidiomycetes)
from
Monte Guilarte State Forest in Adjuntas,
Puerto Rico.
A survey of Agaricales was conducted at the
Monte 'Guilarte Peak trail in Adjuntas,
Puerto Rico, from August 1995 to August
1996. One hundred and twenty-seven specimens
were collected. Thirty-eight species were
identified, representing nine families and
twenty-one genera. Five genera (Armillaria,
Pholiota, Pouzarella, Pseudohiatula and
Simocybe) and 12 species, one of them with
two
varieties,
(Armillaria puiggarii,
Collybia
polygramma,
subpruinosa,
Marasmius cladophyllus var. cladophyllus, g.
cladophyllus aff. var. glaberripes, M.
rhyssophyllus, M. cf. bellus, Mycena c?.
chlorinosma, Pluteus cf . chrysophlFbius,
Pluteus harrisii, Pluteus aff. harrisii,
Pouzarella squamifolia, and Pseudohiatula
irrorata) are new records for Monte Guilarte
and Puerto Rico. Three new species are also
described: Armillaria gigaspora nom. prov.,
nom.
prov.
and
Mycena
guilartensis
Pouzarella caribbea nom. prov.
c.
'
*PEARCE, CERlDWEN ., HYDE, KEVIN D., REDDELL,
PAUL., Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, The University of
al
Hong Kong, Pokfblam Road, Hong Kong, ' ~ r o ~ i cForest
Research Centre, P.O. Box 780,Atherton, Queensland, 4883,
Australia, The genus Phyllachora (Ascomycotina) on the host
angiosperm family Proteaceae.
Phyllachora species commonly known as "tar spotting" fungi, have
a worldwide distribution on a variety of host angiosperm families.
They are biotrophic and are believed to be mostly host specific. The
Proteaceae comprises 72 genera of which 42 are found in Australia,
and 35 of these are endemic. It is not surprising then, that 6 of the
10 Phyllachora species currently described from the Proteaceae, are
also endemic to Australia. Phyllachoraprotea was described from
~outh'Afiica,and a further 3 species of Phyllachora are known
fiom Central and South America. Ln this paper we will illustrate the
Phyllachora species from the Proteaceae, and discuss relationships
between taxa.
*PERRY, BRIAN A.. and DESJARDIN, DENNIS E.,
Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San
Francisco CA 94132 USA, Mycena californiensis resurrected.
Mycena californiensis (Berk. & cur^) Sacc.. described from the
oak woodlands of Mare Island, California in 1858, has long been
considered an incompletely known taxon due to the brief
diagnosis and poor quality of existing type specimens. Recent
investigation of the genus Mycena in California revealed the
presence of an unknown species common to the oak woodlands
of the coastal regions. Investigation of the type material of M.
californiensis yielded sufficient information to conclude that the
common oak loving taxon is conspecific with M. californiensis.
Subsequent investigation of the type material of M. elegantula
Peok revealed that this species is also conspecific with M.
californiensis. Moreover, most North American exsiccati
determined as M. elegantula represent M. renati QuC1. and M .
sanguinolenta (Alb. & Schw.: Fr.) Kummer. The resurrection of
the epithet M. californiensis and placement of M. elegantula in
synonymy is proposed. M. californiensis is redescribed and
illustrated.
*PETERSEN,RONALD H., HUGHES, KAREN W., and MATA
JUAN LUIS, Botany Department, University of Tennessee,
Knoxville, TN 37996. Lentinula boryana intersterility groups and
RFLP analysis.
Most taxonomic literature sources agree that Lentinula boryana is
widely distributed in New World tropical areas. In mating experiments using 22 collections under this name from Costa Rica,
Mexico and the United States Gulf Coast, two intersterility groups
were identified. RFLP analysis of these strains distributed them in
two clades, one of which included strains from Costa Rica and
Mexico as well as forms of L. edodes from western Pacific
landmasses and Nepal. The other clade and intersterility group
included collections from &If Coastal areas from northwestern
Florida to southern Louisiana Neither intersterility,groupwithin
L. boryana ss. lato was sexually compatible with L edodes and its
variants. The type specimen o f L boryana was examined and
found to be congruent with one of the intersterility groups. Thus
there are two species of Lentinula sheltered within the common
use of L. boryana.
PETERSON,STEPHEN W., Microbial Properties Research,
*PETERSONl, KRISTIN R., DESJARDINI. DENNIS E., and
HEMMES2, DON E., IDept. of Biology. San Francisco State
University, San Francisco CA 94132 USA. 2Dept. of Biology.
University of Hawaii, Hilo HI 96720 USA, Agaricaceae of
Hawaii.
The mushroom family Agaricaceae is exotic to the Hawaiian
Islands. Of the more than 230 described species in the family
worldwide, approximately twenty species of Agaricw and one
species of Melanophyllum are believed,to be naturalized on the
islands. Because inocula of these species were probably
introduced with alien plants, the native sources of those plants
provide clues to the identities of the fungi. Taxonomically
informative features of each determined species will be presented.
a s will data on geographical and ecological distributions, seasonal
occurrence, nomenclature, and intrageneric relationships.
National Center for Agricultwal Utihtion Research,USDA,
ARS, Peoria, IL 61604 USA, Phylogenetic placement of the
genera Sagenoma and Dichofomomycesin the Trichocomaceae.
Sagenoma viride asci develop from branching hyphal initials, as
is found in species of Talnromyces,but the bright green
cleistothecia have reticulate peridial hyphae, and the ascuspores
are green, as is found in some species of the Gymnoascaceae.
The anamorphic state of Sagenoma is the Acremonium-like
genus Sagenomella. Placement of S. viride in the
Trichocomaceae is problematical because this species also has
characteristics of the Gymnoascaceae. In contrast to S. viride,
the cleistothecial peridium of Dichotomomyces cejpii is
composed of a single layer of polygonal cells, which is s i i a r to
the ascomata of Neosartorya spp., but the conidia are
aleuriospores formed on dichotomously branched hyphae rather
than phi$ospores Erom an aspergdlum. D. cejpii also has
charactensticsof both families. Molecular comparisons of the
tam+were made to determine their familial placement. ITS and
Isu-rDNA sequences from species ofAspergillus, Talmomyces,
Penicillium, Sagenoma and Dichotomomyces were aligned,
and analyzed phylogenetically using PAUP. S. viride is part of
the Talmomyces clade, and differs phenotypically from other
T h o m y c e s species by its colony color and anamorphic state.
D. cejpii is phylogenetically part of the Neosartorya clade.
Ascoma and ascospore morphology are consistent with its
placement in the Neosartorya clade, but whether the
anamorphic state is a true aleuriospore must be reexamined.
*PFISTER, DONALD H., and HARRINGTON, F. A.,
Harvard University Herbaria, Cambridge, MA
02138 USA, Placement of ,Medeolaria farlowii
(Mediolariales), an unusual member of the
Ascomycota.
*PIMENTEL, GUILLERMO, and CARRIS, LORI. M.,
Washington State University, PO BOX 646430, Pullman WA
99164-6430 USA, Genetic variability among isolates of Tilletia
barclayatla, T. itidica and allied species based on molecular
markers.
Since it was fkst described by Roland Thaxter, the
placement of Medeolaria farlowii among the
Ascomycota has been problematic. It grows -on
Medeola virginiana, a plant that occurs widely in
eastern North America but it has been found only
on scattered populations of the plant in New
England. The fungus produces no organized
ascomata but rather forms a palisade of asci and
paraphyses on infected portions of the stem. Asci
open by irregular slits. Because of the lack of
distinguishing morphological features, the
placement of the genus and the order based on it,
the Medeolariales, has been questioned.
Comparisons of 18s rDNA sequences suggest that i t
should be placed among a group of apothecial
Ascomycota. This placement will be discussed..
Tilletia barclayam, T. ituiica, T. nrgispora and T. boutelouae
are a group of floret-infecting smuts characterized by densely
tuberculate teliospores that germinate to produce more than 30
primary sporidia. A morphologically similar smut infecting
Lolium spp. was discovered in 1996 in Oregon and the
Southern USA; herbarium records show it has been present in
Australia for at least 30 years. The genetic variability among
isolates of these smuts was determined using 310 RAPD
markers and 105 restriction fragments from the ITS region.
Based on PCR-RFLP and RAPD analyses, the ryegrass smut is
most simi$r to T. itldica, but the low level of similarity (e.g.
25%) in the RAPD analysis does not support conspecificity of
the two taxa. Less than 10% similarity was obtained among T.
barclayatla isolates, suggesting that two distinct taxa are
p5esent within this species. One group corresponds to the
isolates from rice, and the other to isolates infecting species of
wild Pat~icrrm and Paspalunr. Tillefia horrida and T.
barclayatla are proposed for the rice and Paticum ,and
Paspalum-infecting smuts, respectively. Tilletia boutelotrae
and T. nrgispora were supported as species distinct from T.
barclayaria and T. itldica based on both RAPD and PCR-RFLP
analyses.
,
*PINE, ELIZABETH M.. DAWSON. SCOTT C.. and PACE.
NORMAN R., Department of Plant and Microbial Biology,
University of California, Berkeley. CA 94720. Fungal diversity of
two anoxic environmenu assessed by sequencing of 18s rRNA
from total environmental DNA.
In recent years, molecular phylogenetic surveys of natural
populations have led to the discovery of unexpected microbial
diversity, particularly of prokaryotes. These techniques have never
been applied to fungi, and it is likely that much mycological
diversity has escaped notice due to the limitations of standard
cultivation techniques. Certain fungal communities are know to
thrive under anaerobic conditions, most notably the gut mycota of
ruminants and aquatic Oomycetes and Chytridiomycetes. Yet
fungi and other eukaryotes generally are not considered in the
context of anoxic environments. In order to characterize anaerobic
fungi, we used molecular techniques to examined two anoxic
environments: sulfide-rich sediment from brackish water at
Berkeley Aquatic Park and subsurface soil from a hydrocarboncontaminated site at Wurtsmith Air-force Base in Michigan. Total
communfty DNA was extracted from soil samples. Polymerase
chain reaction (PCR) used eukaryote-specific oligonucleotide
primers to selectively amplify a portion of the small subunit
ribosomal DNA. These products were cloned, screened for
sequences of putatively fungal origin, and grouped into unique
RFLP types. Representatives of each type were sequenced and
aligned with over 130 complete 18s sequences from known
eukaryotes published in the Genbank database. Fourteen different
environmental sequences grouped with the fungi in phylogenetic
analyses. We found that the two anaerobic environments sampled
contain representatives of diverse fungal lineages, including
Ustilaginomycetes, Urediniomyces, Loculoascomycetes. and
Hemiascornycetes. This study suggests that molecular techniques
can greatly enhance our understanding of fungal diversity and
ecology by allowing direct examination of environmental samples.
PINTO-SHERER, THERESA J., and CHAPELA, IGNACIO,
Ecosystem Sciences Division, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-3 110, USA. A molecular
phylogeny of the Genus Hypoxylon.
Although most endophytic fungi are well characterized
taxonomically, little is known about their phylogeny. A
phylogenetic hypothesis has important contributions to our
understanding of the evolution of symbiosis in terrestrial
ecosystems, coevolutionary relationships with hosts, and
endophytic functions. Moreover, endophytes are a useful model
for general concepts of symbiosis. We report on a phylogenetic
analysis of the genus Hypoxylon (Xylariaceae), a widespread
endophyte of hardwood species with various ecological roles.
We sequenced the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and
beta-tubulin protein coding gene of 18 species and 2 varieties
of the genus Hypoxylon distributed over various hosts. These
sequences were used along with morphological data to do a
variety of phylogenetic analyses, including total evidence
parsimony. Evolutionary and biogeographic implications are
discussed.
J. L. PLA'lT* and J. W. SPATAFORA. Dept. of Botany & Plant
PsSdogy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 9733 1
U.S.A. Lichens, Earth Tongues and endophytes: Molecular
phylogenetic hypotheses of the Leotiales.
Evolutionary pathways of the inoperculate discomycetes hhve led
to diverse morphologies and life strategies. Members of the
Leotiales include lichens, endophytes, saprobes, and plant
parasites. This diversity can obscur phylogenetic relationships
within this complex order. We have utilized nucleotide sequence
data from nuclear rDNA in order to examine phylogenetic
relationships within the Leotiales. The phylogenetic hypotheses
we present are based on sequence data from members of the
Baeomycetaceae, Dermateaceae, Geoglossaceae,
Hemiphacidiaceae, Hyaloscyphaceae, Icmadophilaceae,
Leotiaceae, Loramycetaceae, Orbiliaceae, Phacidiaceae,
Rustroemiaceae, Sclerotiniaceae, and Vibrisseaceae. We will
discuss the results of phylogenetic analyses from both SSU and
LSU which reveal that the Leotiales sensu lato is not
monophvletic. We will also present hypothcses regarding the
monophyly of families within this order.
*POWELL, MARTHA J., Department of Biological Sciences,
The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA, High
pressure quick freeze analysis of the nuclear envelope in a
Chytridiomycete.
An earlier study of mitosis in the aquatic fungus,Powellompce~
variabilis (=Ento~hlpctisvdabilis>, using conventional chemical
fixation reported that new nuclear envelope formed h m vesicles
generated h m the inner membraae of the nuclear envelope.
fater, similar images of nuclear behavior w&-found in aPlasmodiophoromycete, but the authors of this studied provided
another intkrpretathn of nuclear envelope behavior. ~ h k stated
y
that the outer investing cisterna was endoplasrnic reticulum, rather
than nuclear envelope, and the vesicles inside the cisterna
represented fragmented nuclear envelope. One difficulty in
substantiating either interpretation was that the nuclear pores were
not easily and unequivocally discernable with conventional
chemically f m d tissue. The purpose of this study is to compare
nuclear fine structure of E. variabilis as preserved with high
pressure quick freeze and freeze substitution with the images
obtained after conventional chemical fixation. Results provide
improved preservation of nuclear pores which are located in the
outer investing cisterna, supporting the earliest interpretation of
nuclear behavior during mitosis. This behavior pattern of the
nuclear envelope is intriguing because vesicle formation is
typically restricted to the outer membrane of the nuclear envelope
in cells of higher organisms. Moreover unlike cells of most higher
organisms, the Golgi apparatus persists throughout mitosis. This
improved method of preservation reveals plaques on the outer
surface of the nuclear envelope to which microtubules COMeCt.
Because extant Chytridiomycetesare relatives of the most
primitive fungi, analysis of nuclear envelope behavior is valuable
in understanding evolutionary c h g e s in cellular processes
leading to the higher fungi.
*PORTER, DAVID', JAMES, TIMOTHY,Y.~,LEANDER,
CELESTE A.', O'DONNELL, K E W L,),VILGALYS. R., and
LONGCORE, JOYCE E.~, 1. Department of Botany, University of
Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602; 2. ~ e ~ a r t m eof
n tsotany, Duke
University, Durham, NC, 27708; 3. N L W USDA, Peoria, IL
61604; 4. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maine,
Orono, ME 04469. Phylogeny of cbytrid fungi inferred from
nuclear ribosomal gene sequences.
The Chytridiomycota include the orders Chytridiales, Spizellomycetales, Neocallimastigales, Monoblepharidales and Blastocladiales. Although the extreme morphological diversity of these
zoosporic hngi has suggested a complex phylogeny, they have been
neglected in the recent phylogenetic analyses made possible by the
availability of molecular genetic techniques. Our preliminary
analysis of ssurDNA sequences indicates that several chytrid
lineages are closely related to separate zygomycete groups at the
base of the kingdom Fungi. Although the Blastocladiales, Monoblepharidales and Neocallimastigaleseach appear to form monophyletic clades, we have found no support for a monophyletic clade
consisting of all five chytrid orders. For the largest order, the
Chytridiales, we will use the results of our analyses to evaluate
phylogenetic hypotheses based on morphological traits, including
operculation of the zoosporangium, type of thallus development,
and zoospore ultrastmcture.
*RAYNER, ALAN D., Department of Biology and Biochemistry,
V~versityof Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK,Mycelial function in
saprobic fungi
Saprobic fungi commonly inhabia hetaogeneous environments in
which resource availabiity, microclimate and the presence of other
organisms are locally variable and, to a greater or lesser extent,
unpredictable. Mycelia negotiate these environments as versatile,
interconnected, dynamic structures which alter their bqmdary
properties in response to local circumstanixs. 'Selfaerentiation'
of permeable, deformable and hence dissipative fiee surface
enables exploitative mycelial systems to proliferate and compete
for primacy in environments rich in readily assimilable resources.
'Self-integration' via the hsion, sealing and redistribution of
boundaries enables persistent and invasive or migratory hyphal and
mycelial systems to reduce losses in resource-restricted andlor
hostile environments through the minimization of dissipative free
surface. Biotic and abiotic factors affecting the availability of
reducing and oxidising power may be key to feedback processes
regulating the balance between self-integration and selfdifferentiation through changes in boundary chemistry influencing
hydrophobicity and generation of reactive oxygen species and fiee
radicals.
READ, NICK D.Fungal Cell Signalling Group, hstitute of Cell
and Molecular Biology, Rutherford Building, Edinburgh, EH9
3JH, UK. Spitzenkorper dynamics and ksicle traffiicking diring
fungal growth and morphogenesis.
'REDHEAD, S.A., MCGOLDRICK, N., and BAILLARGEON, G., Biological
R m u ~ sU=ORC*
,
Agricultureand A g r i - F d Canada(AAFC), maw%
Ontario, KIA OC6, Canada. Canadian Taxonomic Information System
(CTIS):Agarics and boktes of Canada.
The Canadian department of agriculture (AAFC), like its counterpart, the
USDA, employs research staff devoted to the investigation of the
systematicsof major phyla that impinge upon agricultural practices within
the country. Expertise covers insects, mites, flowering plants, and fungi.
The primary purpose of such research units is to keep abreast of
information on deleterious species (pathogens, pests, and weeds) at basic
recognition levels while simultaneously providing in-house ability to
confirm pest identifications. Increasingly the wealth of data serves two
fronts as it can be used to increase productivity directly or assist other
departments (federal, provinciallstate, regional) with their mandates.
Evolution has not sufficiently segregated, above the species level, the
harmful pathogenslpests from biocontrol agents, the mycotoxigenic fungi
from antibiotigenic fungi, or the edible plants and fungi from poisonous
ones, and therefore knowledge acquired for one group leads to economic
or environmental spin-offs for related taxa. The concentration of
systematics expertise with highly specialized systematics literature, and
major reference collections in both AAFC and the USDA has produced
data on thousands of beneficial and benign organisms. One such product
is the Canadian database on macrofungi (mushrooms) being developed by
AAFCs Biological Resources Program. This agaric database could serve
as the nucleus for a more comprehensive North American coverage in the
ITIS system being dewoped by a federation of partners in the USA,
Canada and Mexico. Geographic and taxonomic literature on Canadian
mushrooms is scattered in over 800 publications that have already been
indexed. The database currently contains over 18,000 records using >
3,700 names hi ca 175 genera These names will be standardized, collated
and made availableon the WWW. Preliminary use of the existing database
has allowed researchers in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and
Quebec to make authoritative statements on the existence of specific taxa.
*RIGGS. W.,and MIMS,C. W.,Deparhnent of Plant Pathology,
University of Georgia,Athens, GA 30602 USA, Ultrast~-~cture
of the thick-walled asexual spores of the plant pathogenic fungus
'RIQUELME,
MERITXELL and BARTNICKI-GARCIA,
SALOMON. Department of Plant Pathology. University of
California, Riverside CA 92521 USA. Morphometric and cytologic
analysis of hyphae in Neurospora crassa ropy mutants.
Thielaviopsisbasicola.
Thielaviopsisbasicola produces two types of asexual spores,
namely transparent, thin-walled endocondia that arise f h m
phialides and dark, thick-walled phragmospores variously
referred to as either aleuriospores or chlamydospores. In this
study TEM was used to examine the development of these thickwalled spores in an attempt to elucidate their exact nature.
These spores
hm
hyphal branches that
arose adjacent to pbialides. The tip of the hyphal branch
elongated and enlarged slightly and then was divided by a
kUISvefie septum into a Ulhucleate apical cell and a uninucleate
This
arose froma
formed inner
layer and was not continuouswith the outer portion of the
hyphal wall. It possessed a small central pore with which
Woronin bodies were associated. The basal cell did not develop
further. However, the apical cell continued to grow and
typically divided 3 or 4 more times to form a short chain of
uninucleate
apical
and from to ofthe
below it then formed thick walls and developed into a
multicelled spore' The
Of the span
layathnt gave rise to sqU
the inner
rpores had a
to h ~ m inlc
t the
lhat mm~n'sed
them. This resulted from the icblysis of each rcphlm and the
rupture of the outer hyphal wall that covered the spore.
44
The Spitzenkorper (Spk) is a dynamic body found at the apex of
elongating hyphae of higher fungi. Previously, we correlated the
trajectory of the Spk in straight and meandering hyphae of a wildtype strain of Neurospora crassa with the direction of growth and
hyphal morphology. The morphological effects of benomyl, a
microtubular inhibitor, suggested that the microtubular
cytoskeleton had a role in maintaining the trajectory of the Spk
and, hence, hyphal directionality. By videoenhanced phasecontrast microscopy and image analysis, we have examined hyphae
of two ropy mutants of N. crassa, ro-1 and ro-3; these
mo~phologic-1 mutants have mutations affecting microtubularassociated motor proteins: the heavy chain of the cytoplasmic
dynein and the pl50Glued subunit of the dynactin complex,
respectively. Colonies of these mutants showed a rope-like
phenotype and restricted growth. When
to the wild type,
hyphae of the mutants were highly curled, branched and distorted;
they grew slower (as measured by area increase per time unit) and
exhibited a remarkable loss of growth directionality. Whereas the
Spk of growing, wild-type hyphae was readily seen by phase
contrast optics, the Spk of both, ro-1 and ro-3 was diffcult to
detect or undetectable. In these contorted ropy hyphae, the Spk was
smaller, more diffuse-and seemed to move more enatidly than in
wild-type hyphae. In general. only the fastest-growing ropy hyphae
exhibited a Spk. Our observations add support to the notion that
the microtubular cytoskeleton plays a major role in the behavior of
the Spk.
*.ROBLES, ROXANNE, BETANCOURT, CARLOS, and
DIGHTON, JOHN, University of Puerto RicoMayagilez Campus, MayagUez, Puerto Rico
00681, Preliminary survey df mycorrhizae
at the coastal habitat of Gu6nica Dry
Forest, Puerto Rico.
A preliminary survey of mycorrhizae was
performed
in the coastal habitat of
Gu6nica
Dry
Forest,
located
at
the
southern part of Puerto Rico. Roots of
nine different plant genera were randomly
collected in order to determine the nature
of their mycorrhizal- association.
The
collected plants were Tabeuia, Turnera,
Lantana, Psychill'is,
Tamonea, Krameria,
Sansevieria, Coccoloba, and Agave. Roots
were cleared and stained according to the
procedures of Phillips and Hayman, and
observations were made under dissecting
and compound microscope.
Mycorrhizae were observed in all
collected
species,
and
all
the
associations were
endomycorrhizae. The
present
survey
represents
the
first
mycorrhizal study in the Guanica Dry
investigation
are
Forest.
Further
determining the influence of site on the
mycorrhizal
infection of other plants
species
with
respect
to
soil
characteristics and detailed studies of
morphological characters of fungus.
'
'
ROSS, IAN K., MCD Biology, University of California, Santa
Barbara, CA 93106 USA, An alternative adfbgal strategy?
Nearly all anti-fungal therapies used to date have severe to life
threatening side effects and fungi are becoming inmashgly
resistant to such therapies. The vegetative cells of filamentous
fungi are in a state of perpetual p r o l i f d o n and have active
telomerase. In most organisms,differenthied cells have limited
ability to proliferate and do not have active telomerase. In
fungi, the closest thing to terminally differenthied cells an
found in the meiotic cells involved in sexual reproduction.
There are no reported cases of the sexual stage of pathogenic
fungi being found in diseased patients. Genes governing
differentiation change the program of gene expression in the
induced cells to one leading to a new cell type in which not
only are di6erentiation genes turned on, but vegetative genes
are turned off. If the genes responsible for this change in
behavior were utikially expressed in vegetative cells, those
cells could well be induced to cease proliferation. It is my
hypothesis that the misexpression in vegetative fungal cells of
the genes regulating the onset of differentiation would cause
profound changes in the behavior of those cells that would lead
to cessation or inhibition of proliferation and thus pathogenic
state. This is an approach that offers the possibility that human
pathogenic fungi may be stopped fiom proliferating by a
specific treatment that should not have any adverse side effects,
and one to which the b g i should not become resistant.
Current work on molecular aspects of development in
Coprimrs congregatus and telomerase activity in higher fungi
will be presented as justification for this concept.
*ROMAINE, C. PETER, CHEN, XI, OSPINA-GIRALDO,
MANUEL D., and ROYSE, DANIEL J., Department of Plant
Pathology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park,
PA 16802 USA, Genetic analysis of the Trichodenna green mold
epidemic in Agaricus bisporus.
Trichoderma green mold developed to epidemic proportions
during the -1990s in commercial mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)
c u l m throughout North America We have examined genetic
aspects of the host-pathogen interaction in an attempt to explain
the dramatic increase in the incidence and severity of the disease.
Fifty-seven of 65 (88%) isolates of green mold collected at
commercial sites in Pennsylvania were identified using arbitrarily
primed (AP)-PCR as Trichodem barzianum biotype 4 (Th4).
AP-PCR analysis revealed that Th4 was closely allied to T.
harzianwn biotype 2 (Th2), the predominant aggressive biotype
on mushrooms in Europe. The results of PCR amplifications
using arbitrary or Th2.14-specific primers distinguished Th4 from
17 preepidemic isolates of Trichodem collected between 1950
and 1990 from mushroom culture. Commercial mushroom strains
were evalupd for disease resistance using an in vitro spawn
protection assay (SPA) in which A. bisporuscolonized rye grain
was inoculated with spores of Th4 and rated for invasion by
green mold. Two hybrid mushroom strains, grown almost
exclusively worldwide since the mid-1980s. were found to be
more susceptible to Th4 in the SPA than a brown strain, but more
resistant than two strains that were popular prior to the
introduction of the hybrid strains. Similarly, in mushroom
production uials, a reduction in yield by Th4 was lowest for a
brown strain (29%). intermediate for a hybrid strain (57%). and
highest for a pre-hybrid strain (100%). We suggest that the onset
of the green mold epidemic was due to the emergence of a new
-genotype of the pathogen and not to a monoculture of a host
genotype with an extreme susceptibility to the disease.
*ROSSMAN, A. Y., NEWELL, S. and SCHULTHEISS, R. A.,
Systematic Botany and Mycology Laboratory, USDA-ARS,
Beltsville, MD 20705; Marine Institute, University of Georgia,
Sapelo Island, GA 3 1327, Bionectria erubescens on smooth
cordgiass along the coast of eastern North America with
comments on a new family, Bionectriaceae, Hypocreales
In the course of work on decomposers of smooth cordgrass
(Spartina alternifora Loisel) along the coast of eastern North
America, a Necfria-like fungus was common. This funguswas
identified as Bionectria erubescens, known previously on
herbaceous debris in warm temperate regions. In summer
1997, an apparent bloom of B. erubescens occurred in
saltmarshes of Georgia and Florida In previous years the
species had been seen only rarely, even in intensive
examinations for ascowp density occurring on < 0.2% of
samples, in summer 1997 B. erubescens was found on 49% of
cordgras-blade samples (n = 81) from three saltmarsh
watersheds of Sapelo Island, GA. Frequencies at individual
subsites ranged fiom 11 to 78%. In autumn (Nov 97)
sampling fiom saltmarshes fiom FL to ME, B. erubescens was
found only in GA and FL marshes. On Spartina, the fungus
occurs on standingdecaying leaf blades low on shoots, is
regularly immersed in seawater, and, is, at least, facultatively
marine. Cultures obtained fiom single ascospores were used to
obtain sequence data that confirm its placement in the genus
Bionecfria..With support fiom molecular data the new family
Bionectriaceae is recognized for members of the Hypocreales
having pallid Nectria-like ascowps.
*RYVARDEN, LEIF, Department of Botany, University of
Oslo, P.O. Box 1045, Blindem, N-0316 OSLO, NORWAY,
The Ganoderma lucidum complex in tropical America.
The types of all species within the G. lucidum complex based
on neotropical collections, have been examined. Besides the
basidiospores, the apical cells of the cuticle are shown to be
reliable characters for determination of species. The apical cells
in the cuticle are much more variable in size, shape and
reaction in Melzer's reagent than in the temperate taxa within
the same complex. A complete list of accepted species with
synonyms will be given with representative illustrations.
Ganoderma lucidum (W. Curt.:Fr.) P. Karsten s. str. has not
been recorded from tropical America. Most specimens so
named in different herbaria are G. resinaceum Boud.,
apparently a rather common and widespread species, at least in
the Caribbean area. G. boninense Pat. originally described from
Bonin Islands in the Pacific, and widespread in tropical Asia, is
reported as new from America. Several new species, mostly
based on collections from the Amazona basin will be described
later.
*SAN MARTIN, and FELIPE,ROGERS, J. D. Institute
Tecnol6gico de Ciudad Victoria, Cd. Victoria, Tam.87010,
Mexico and Department of Plant Pathol%y, Washington State
University, Pullman, Washington 99 164-6430 New
ascomycete records from Mexico.
As a result of field work carried out in Mexico during the last
three years, new species and records of Ascomycetes were
identified. Taxa are: Astrosphaeridlla sfellafa,A. stellafa var.
palmicola var. nov., A. tornata, A. trochus, A. vaginata sp.
nov. and Mycopepon smithii var. mexicarium var. nov.
(Dothideales, Melanommataceae); Claviceps afiicana and
Clavicepsfusiformis (Hypocreales, Clavicipitaceae);
Cumarops ustulinoides and C. polysperma (Sordariales,
Boliniaceae);Acanthonitschkia argentinensis,
Calyculosphaeria calyculus, C. fefrasporacomb. nov.,
Fracchiaea heterogena, Scorfechinia acanthostroma,
Spinu[osphaeria fharteri and Thaxteria didyma (Sordariales,
Nitschkiaceae). Taxa of the family Xylariaceae are represented
by: Hypoxylon shearii, H. ticinense, Jumillera cinerea, J
mexicana, J viridis, Kretzschmariella culmorum, Traverso,
Nemania caries comb. nov., Nemania confluens, Nemania
diffusa comb. nov., Nemania guyneddii, Nemania lafissima
comb. nov., Nemania serpens, Podosordaria muli, Rosellinia
evansii, Stilbohypoxylon cf. samuelsii, Usfulinazonata,
Whalleya microplaca, Xylaria casfilloi sp. nov., X diminuta
sp. nov., Xylaria equina sp. nov., X. eugeniae sp. nov., Xylaria
cJ filiformis, X mexicana sp. nov., Xylaria pileiformis and
Xylaria striata var. sonorensis var. nov. Some taxa were
originally reported from Europe or United States, while others
are truly tropical and cited before from Asia, Africa, or South
America. Most of the. specimens are housed in the private
mycological herbarium of Felipe San Martin.
*SALMONES, DULCE, GAITAN-HERNANDEZ,
RIGOBERTO, G u Z M ~ , G A S T ~ N AND MATA,
GERARDO. Departamento Hongos, Instituto de Ecologia,
Apartado postal 63, Xalapa, Ver. Mexico, Studies on
mushroom cultivation in the Institute of Ecology (Xalapa,
Mexico).
Based on the fungal diversity of Mexico and the ancient
tradition of their consumption by the native populations, the
Labohtory of Edible Fungi at the Institute of Ecology
(Xalapa, Mexico) has for several years developed research for
the selection of native fungi species with potential for
commercial exploitation. To date about 100 strains have been
studied, mainly of the genera Pleurotus, Lentinula and
Volvariella, from which information such as mycelial
development, morphology and fruiting body production has
been gained. Additionally, strains of Pleurotus a'jamor, P.
ostreatus and P. pulmonarius with high fruiting body
production with over 100% biological efficiency on barley
straw have been selected by genetic crossbreeding. Special
interest is placed on reusing lignocellulosic wastes abundant
in Mexico for mushroom cultivation, examples include coffee
pulp and sugarcane bagasse, among others. The strains studied
are deposited in the Edible Fungi Strain Collection at the
Institute of Ecology constituting one of the most important of
Latin America. Furthermore, mushroom cultivation has been
promoted through courses in Mexico as in Central and South
America, as well as the publication of scientific articles and
the book "El cultivo de 10s hongos comestibles", being the
first of its kind in Latin America.
*SANCHEZ-VAZQUEZ, JOSB E., HUERTA-PALACIOS,
GRACIELA AND CASTILLEJOS-PUON VASTY. El Colegio
de la Frontera Sur. (ECOSUR). Apdo. Postal 36. Tagachula,
Chiapas. Mexico. Auricularia, an alternative for edible mushrooms in tropical America
Tropical America is one of the most important coffee growing
ateas in the world since it produces around 20% of the world
coffee production. Auricularia is one of the most common
genera of edible mushrooms found in coffee plantations. In
collections carried out in Sococusco region, Mexico up to 16%
of the macromycetes collected belonged to this genus and with
A. fuscosuccinea as the most abundant species. This means that
tropical America has the climatic conditions, the substrates and
the germplasm to consider growing Auricularia a viable alternative. Sawdust, available after pruning the shade trees of Znga
spp, Gliricidia spp. and Leucaena spp, is suitable for mycelial
growth qf this genus and can be stimulated if 3% coffee pulp is
added. ECOSUR has 5 saains of A. fuscosuccinea with mycelial
growth rates of about 12.57 mm/day on Leucm-agar and malt
emact agar. Biological efficiencies of 20.4-332.8 and production rates of 0.17-0.34% on mixtures of com cobs (97%)-Leucaena (3%) have been attained and good organoleptic qualities
have been observed. More research on optimal substrates, strain
improvement, optimization of growing technology and drying of
carpophores is needed in order to produce Auricularia spp.
commercially
SCHADT, CHRISTOPHER W.'*,KAGEYAMA,'STACIEA',
SCHMIDT, STEVEN A' AND GARDES, MONIQUE.'
'Department of EP.0. Biology, University of Colorado; Boulder
~ S , Paul
CO 80309-0334 USA, Z C ~ S ~ C / CUniversitt5
Sabatiermoulouse III,31055 Toulouse Cedex 4 FRANCE.
Characterization of three dominant ectomyconhhe associated with
the alpine sedge Kobresia myosuroides (Cyperaceae).
*SANTOS-FLORES, CARLOS J. ,NIEVES-RIVERA,
ANGEL M., and BETANCOURT, CARLOS, Department of
Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, PR 006805000. A survey on the Lngoldian and water-borne
hyphomycete conidia in foam from six streams at the
Caribbean National Forest, eastern Puerto Rico
Kobresia myosuroides is a common component of alpine and arctic
tundra ecosystems throughout the Northern Hemisphere and is the
only member of the Cyperaceae family that is known to form
ectomycorrhizae. Despite the ecological importance of
K myosuroides and the singular nature of this relationship, no
studies have examined the morphology or identity of the fungi
involved in this symbiosis. Three common morphotypes have been
collected from the Front Range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains
over the past two growing seasons. Of 19 root cores thus far
examined, all contained Cenococcum geophyllum and one
unidentified type with a tan mantle color. Eight of the 19 cores also
contained an unidentified type with an orange mantle color. These
types were characterized on the basis of light and scanning electron
microscopic evaluation of the mantle and Hartig net. In addition,
RFLP analysis of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (lTS) DNA region
was performed. Results of morphological analyses show these
three ectomycorrhizal morphotypes of K myosuroides have similar
structural features to those reported for other Angiosperms. RFLP
analysis performed on these morphotyp confirmed these three
types as being distinct from one another. In addition. each
morphotype RFLP pattern was identical between sample cores.
Progress toward the molecular classification of the fungi forming the
unidentified tan and orange morphotypes will also be presented.
Since 1991, surveys on the Ingoldian and water-borne
hyphomycete conidia in foam have been conducted in the
following streams within the Caribbean National Forest:
Quebrada Grande, Rio Sonadora, Rio Cubuy, Rio Icacos, Rio
Espiritu Santo, and Quebrada Jimenez . Nearly two hundred
hyphomycete species and undescribed conidial-types have been
recorded. The following species are new records for the Island:
Actinocladium amazonicum, Biflage llospora cf: amazonensis,
Ceratosporellafagellifera, Ceratosporiumaequatoriale,
Flab~llosporairregularis,.Isthmolongispora biramifera,
Lateriramulosa ainjlata, L. biinfata, Lateriramulosa sp.,
Pleiochaeta amazonensis, Retiarius c$ bovicornutus,
Tridentaria subuliphora, Triramulisporadefciens, and
Triscelophoruskonajensis.
'Schnittler, M., Federal Agency for Nature,. Conservation,
Konstantinstr. 110, 53 179 Bonn, Germany,Ecoloj$cal studies on
myxomycetes h m the winter~olddesert of the Mangyschlak
Peninsula (Kazakhstan).
*SCHMIT, J O m PAUL, W H Y . JOHN F., and
MUELLER, GREGORY M., Field Museum of Natural
History. Chicago IL 60605 USA Macrofungal diversity in a
temperate oak forest.
During a four-week expedition m April and May 1995 the wintercold desert of the Mangyschlak peninsula (app. 52O13' E, 44OQ1'
N) was surveyed for myxomycetes. AU suitable-microhabitats,
including bark of desert shrubs, small patches of litter, and the
Two 0.1 ha. plots were established in a deciduous forest in
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. and macrofungi were
surveyed on these plots for 3 years. After 3 years. 171 species
have been found including 30 leaf litter inhabiting species. 3 1
ectomycorrhizal species. 22 non-mycorrhizal soil inhabiting
species. and 69 wood inhabiting species. The abundance of
each species was measured by the number of 1 meter diameter
circles needed to enclose all of the fruitbodies found on the
plots. We used these data to test a number of methods of
estimating total species richness From a sample. In general. data
collected in a single year is insufficient for estimating total
species diversity. Furthermore, sampling a single plot for
several years resulted in finding more species than sampling
two plots m the same year.
dung of herbivores, were sampled and d e s c r i i . In subsequent
moist chamber experiments, time of occurrence and number of
sporocarps per moist chamber were noted and recorded.
A whole desert flora consisting of 28 myxomycetes, two protostelids and various myxobacteria was found, and some species
were exceedingly abundant. A bootstrap analysis suggested that at
least all regularly ocwring species were encountered. By means
of multivariate analysis, microhabitat features like substrate type,
water retention, pH, light, height, and wind exposure were
correlated with species abundances to reveal ecological niches for
the more common species. Myxomycetes characterized by roughly
the.same microhabitat requirements (especially pH and substrate)
often have different peaks in development times, thus establishing
successional sequences with the smallest species lacking a
peridium appearing first.
In ecological tenns, myxomycctes can be characterized as rather
opportunistic k-strategists.Theability to exploit rapidly changing
(both temporally and spatially) microhabitats may explain their surprisingly success in the extreme desert habitat studied. Productivity estimates revealed high spore production, sutlicient to
occupy all suitable habitats within the cm-range via spore Mlout.
47
SCHROERS HANS-JOSEF, Centraalbureau voor Schimmelcultures, Baarn, Netherlands, Variation in the mycoparasite
Bionectria ochroleucalGliocladium roseum and closely ielated
taxa .
Bionectria ochroleuca/Gliocladium roseum (= Clonostac@s)
and B. aureofulva/G. solani are characterized by dimorphic
conidiophores and conidia held in pale orange to yellowish
imbricate chains or slimy masses. Strains of both species were
grown from conidia and from ascospores. The teleomorphs are
typically encountered in tropical and more rarely in temperate
climates; the anarnorphs are cosmopolitan. Conidia of G.
carenularum and G. nigrovirens are green but are otherwise
similar to G. roseum and G. solani, respectively. No teleomorphs are known for these green conidial taxa.
Sequences of rDNA ITS-1 did not reveal any differences
between G. roseum and G. cotenulatum, but minor ones were
found when ascospore- and conidial isolates of G. roseum
were compared. Similarly, when G. solani and G. nigrovirens
were compared, no differences were observed. PCR fmgerprints with minisatellite primers confmed the results from
sequence analyses, particularly in G. roseum and G. carenularum.
The coloration of conidial masses appears to be of minor
taxonomic importance. Populations of strains from temperate
climates may be clonal derivatives from sexually active populations of mainly tropical distribution. Other species of Bionectria diverged more strongly, though their anamorphs were
hardly distinct from G. roseum andlor G. solani.
*SEIDL, MICHELLE T., and LIU,YAJUAN., Department of
Botany. Box 355325. University of Washington, Seattle, WA
98195 USA, Molecular phylogenetic studies of two sections in
subgenus Myxacium (Cortinarius,Agaricales, Basidiomycotina).
Based on traditional taxonomic characters for the genus
Cortinarius, subgenus Myxacium is distinguished by the presence
of a gelatinous universal veil. Sections Defbulati and Myxacium
within the subgenus, are exceptional in that members of each are
very similar morphologically, and thus difficult to distinguish.
The two are divided primarily by the presence or absence of clamp
connections. Molecular studies were undertaken to address two
major questions. Is the subgenus Mymium monophyletic? Do
sections Defbulati and Myxaciwn form monophyletic groups?
Estimates of phylogeny are inferred from nuclear ribosomal DNA
sequence data of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS 1 and ITS2)
and the 5.8s gene. Parsimony malysis is used to elucidate
phylogenetic relationships among selected species within the two
sections, and including representatives of the subgenus. Selected
species of Cortinarius and Dennocybe are used for rooting
purposes. Relationships will be discussed on the basis of
molecular results and published taxonomic data.
'SCHROERS, HANS-JOSEF, Centraalbureau voor Schimmelcultures, Baam, Netherlands, SAMUELS, GARY J., Systematic Botany and Mycology Laboratory, USDA ARS, Beltsville,
MD,USA, SEIFERT, KEITH A., Eastern Cereal and Oilseed
Research Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Research
Branch, Ottawa, Ontario Canada, and GAMS, WALTER, Centraalbureau voor Schirnmelcultures, Baarn, Netherlands, Classification of the mycoparasite Gliocladium roseum in
Clonostachys as C. rosea.
Gliocladiwn roseum Bain. is a destructive mycoparasite often
used in the biocontrol of fungal plant pathogens. The fungus
differs from the type species of Gliocladium, G. penicillioides,
in morphololgy, ecology, and DNA sequence data. While G.
penicillioides is connected with a Sphaerostilbella teleomorph,
G. roseum is the anamorph of Bionectria ochroleuca
(Hypocreales). Based on the original description, Clonostachys
Corda isdhe appropriate genus to accommodate G. roseum.
Penicillium roseum Link is found to be an older available
name for G. roseum and the combination Clonostachys rosea
will be proposed. Penicillium roseum will be neotypified by an
ascospore isolate of B. ochroleuca. By choosing an ascospore
isolate of B. ochroleuca as neotype for P. roseum, the previously recognized teleomorph-anamorph relationship, both, at
genus and species level, is firmly established. The genus Bionectria that comprises species of the Nectria ochroleuca
group is recognized as generically distinct from Nectria. By
this, both genera, Clonostachys and Bionectria, now comprise
naturally related species.
SERRANO, MAYDA, and CANTRELL, SHARONA.,
Center for Forest Mycology Research, USDA-Forest
Service, Forest Products Laboratory, Luquillo PR 007731377, Mating system of Tinctopomllus epimiltinus.
Titoporellus e p i m i l h is one of the more common species of
decomposerpolypores causing white rot of mainly large
hardwood logs in the Caribbean National Forest in Puerto Rico.
This fungus colonized complete logs and appeared to exclude
other species. The present study was developed to determine the
mating system of this important fungus Samples were taken from
three sites in the Bisley Experimental Watershed of the Caribbean
National Forest. Ten to fifteen single spores isolate (SSI) were
obtained in MEA. Crosseswere performed between the SSI of the
same fruiting body. After a week a contact zone was visible as a
line of inteation in a negative mating. This reaction was verified
microscopically looking for broken hyphae, false clamps,
chlamydospores, and 'knee reaction". A positive mating was
determine by looking for clamp connections in the contact zone
and in the outer parts of the plate. We have concluded that T.
epimiltinufjlas a tetrapolar mating system, and we suspect that
the genes has multiple alleles based on our prelrminary continuing
study. We report for the fmt time that this fungus produces
abundant medallion clamps in cultunx
*SHAW. B. D., and HOCH, H. C. Plant Pathology, Cornell
University, New York State Agricultural Experiment Station,
Geneva, New York, 14456, USA. Attachment and germination
of Phyllosticta ampelicida pycnidiospores.
*SHOEMAKER, R.A., Biological Resources, Eastern Cereal
and Oilseed Research Centre, Research Branch, Agriculture
and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, KIA OC6, Canada.
Proposals to conserve the names of some plant parasitic fungi
Pycnidiospores of Phyllosticta ampelicida have a distinct
requirement for gemination; they must attach to the substratum
for germination to ensue. Furthermore, the substratum must be
hydrophobic to allow attachment (e. g. their host, grape leaves or
polystyrene). Interestingly, the spores do not normally germinate
on nutrient media because it is hydrophilic and they can not
attach. Pycnidospores are surrounded by a persistent, waterinsoluble sheath that binds Concanavalin A (Con A)-TRITC
lectin but not wheat germ agglutin (WGA)-FITC. In addition
Con A, but not WGA or Galanthus nivalis lectin, disrupts spore
attachment. The sheath is removed with either Novozym or Pglucoronidase, enzymes which digest glucans. Digested spores
lose their ability to adhere. After 40 rnin, digested spores regain
the ability to adhere @rough the secretion of material recognized
by Con A. Proteases do not visibly effect the sheath or disrupt
attachment. Based on lectin effects and enzyme activities these
results suggest a major component of the sheath that is important
for attachment is a glucan. Addition of cationic, chaotropic salts
enhances attachment to both hydrophobic and hydrophilic
surfaces presumably through the masking of electronegative
groups on the sheath or by reduction of the ordered water shell
surrounding the sheath. In particular, Ca" induces both
attachment and germination on normally non-inductive
hydrophilic surfaces, suggesting a role for Ca* signaling in the
germination process.
Until fairly recently, it has not been possible to c o m e names
of species but the procedure is now well established. It seems
to be the appropriate method of maintaining stability of names,
which is particularly vital for economically important plant
parasites that may be subject to governmental regulation.
Some examples of recent proposals to conserve are: Phoma
betae AB. Frank (1892) against Phyllosticta tabifica Prillieux
(1 891), the basionym of Phoma tabifica (Prillieux) Saccardo;
the basionym of Drechslera avenue (Helminthosporium avenae
Eidarn (1891)) against Helminthosporium avenacea Curtis ex
Cooke (1889); the basionym of Pyrenophora tritici-repentis
(Pleospora tritici-repentis Diedicke (1903)) against Sphaeria
sarcocystis Berkeley & M.A. Curtis in Berk. (1876);
Pyrenophora avenae Ito & Kurib. in Ito (1930) against
Pyrenophora chaetomioides Spegazzini (1899). At the generic
level, conservation has been used for a long time. One recent
proposed conservation of interest to plant pathologists concerns
Luttrellia Shearer, (27 June 1978) conserved against Luttrellia
Chochryakov & Gormostai in Azbukina et al. as 'Lutrellia'
(prior to 13 June 1978). The latter name is an obligate
nomenclatural synonym of Exserohilum Leonard & Suggs
because both are based on Helminthosporium turcicum
Passerini.
SILVA, GLADSTONE A l, SANTOS, BARTOLOMEU A ',
*MAIA, LEONOR c.', and ALVES, MARCCUS v2 .
1
Departamento de Micologia and '~e~artamentode Bothica,
Universidade Federal de ~ernambbco.50670420 Recife, PE,
Brasil. Arbuscular mycorrhizae in species of Commelinidae and
Liiidae (Liiopsida), in the State of Pernambuco (Brazil).
The aim of this work was to spdy the mycorrhizal condition of
species of Commelinidae and ~ i d a collected
e
in the State of
Pernambuco. Roots of each plant were washed, cleared in KOH,
stained with Trypan blue in lactoglycerol a d observed under a
light microscope in order to assess presence and to identitjr the
mycorrhizal type. Percentage of root colonization (3 samples1
plant) was evaluated by the gridlime intersect method. There were
observed 49 specimens representing 37 species. From these
specimens 71,4% were colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal hngi
(AMF). Considering the results at the family level, two were not
mycotrophic (Agavaceae and Typhaceae), in six all specimens
showed the association (Arnaryllidaceae, Burmaniaceae,
Dioscoreaceae, Eriocaulaceae, Iridaceae, and Hypoxidaceae) and
four presented specimens with or without AMF (Commelinaceae,
Cyperaceae, Poaceae, and Pontederiaceae). In some roots, other
fungi were observed together with the AMF. Some species varied
regarding presence or not of the association as well as in
percentage of colonization, in different or in the same collkcting
place. The results indicated that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are
widely distributed among species of Commelinidae and Liliidae in
Pernambuco, beihg probably important for their establishment in
those environments.
*SIME, A. DAVID and RONALD H. PETERSEN., Botany
Dept., UniG, of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1 100, Mating
systems and interrelationshipsamong four coastal species of
Melanotus (Strophariaceae, Agaricales).
Melanotus (Pat.) comprises a group of small, saprotrophic,
dark-spored, pleurotoid agarics. Most species have been
reported from the Neotropics, and differ by subtle
micromorphological characteristics. Traditionally, the majority
of the species have been delineated by substratum
characteristics. We have found that based upon morphology and
sexual compatibility the following coastal species are putatively
conspecific:M. textilis, M proteus ss. Watling and Gregory, M.
horizontalis ss. Watling and Gregory, and M. hepatochrous.
.Melanotus textilis was originally described from Washington,
U.S.A, M. proteus from South Africa, M. horizontalis fiom
France and M. hepatochrous from Tasmania. Thus a single
biological species seems cosmopolitan in distribution.
Arnmirati et al. reported pleurocystidia in M. hartiae, the first
such report in the genus, but according to Horak the genus was
without pleurocystidia We have found that M. textilis, M.
proteus, M. horizontalis, and M. hepatochrous all exhibit
embedded pleurocystidia with
membrane-bound, apical
droplets. Specimens under all four names have similar macroand micromorphological features, in addition to being sexually
intercompatible. Furthermore, unusual sexual polarity has been
demonstrated in these specimens. Substrata characteristics
appear to be of limited importance in segregation of these taxa.
Circinately formed, terminal. arthrospores were formed in
culture by .all specimens.
49
*SPIEGEL, FREDERICK W.1 and STEPHENSON, STEVEN
L.2, !Department of Biological Sciences. University of Arkansas,
Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA and 2Department of Biology,
Fairmont State College, Fairmont, WV 26544, USA, Protostelids
of Macquarie Island
Maoquarie Island is a small, oceanic island located lOOOkm
southeast of Tasmania, just north of the Antarctic Convergence.
Earlier studies by one of us (SLS) have reported on myxomycetes
and dictyostelids from this island. This is the first report of
protostelids from the island, the southernmost locality from which
they have been recovered. Litter samples were collected under
stands of PleurophyUum hookeri Buchan. and of Acaem spp.
Samples were plated out using standard techniques for protostelid
identification. The species that fruited were identified by sporocarp
morphology using light microscopy. Amoeba1 and prespore cell
morphology were used whenever possible to corroborate
identification. At least five species occurred in the litter:
Protostelium mycophaga Olive & Stoian.. P. nocturnum Spiegel,
Tychosporiumacutostipes Spiegel, Moore & Feldman.
"Schizop@modwpsis' amoeboidea Olive & Whitney, and
Soliformoturn irregularis(Olive & Stoian.) Spiegel. It is of
interest that most of these species rarely occur in litter in temperate
ecosystems and that the Macquarie Island samples lack any typical
litter species such as Nernatostelium spp.
STENROOS, SOILI, and DePRIEST, PPA
T. Departrnent.of
Botany, NHB-166, National Museum of Natural History,
Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC 20560 USA. Towards a
world monograph of Cladoniaceae (lichen-formingAscomycota).
The diverse and ecologically important Cladoniaceae comprise
approximately 11 genera and over 500 lichen-forming species
worldwide. Most of these species are in the largest genus,
Cladonia Browne. Because of their ubiquity, attractive form, and
relatively large size (to 40 cm tall), these lichens are conspicuous
and frequently collected. The Cladoniaceae is perceivedby lichen
experts to be taxonomically difficult because of poorly defined
species, cryptic and variable characters, and a confusing
nomenclature. Among the lichen-forming h g i the Cladoniaceae
is disproportionately represented in herbarium collections, yet, the
geographical distributions of the species are unresolved. Most of
the species as they are currently circumscribed have cosmopolitan
distributions, perhaps a result of artificially broad taxonomic
concepts that are a product of historical biases rather than
biological reality. This combination of factors has led to erroneous
species circumscriptions, more than 2000 species level names, and
has impeded our understanding of Cladoniaceae evolution. We.
have now formed a partnership between natural history museums
(FH, H, TUR and US) that enhances taxonomic lcnowledge in the
family Cladoniaceae and transfers it among generations of
lichenologists. Our goals are new phylogenetic analyses, species
circumscriptions and monographic studies. We plan to develop
and apply rigorous species concepts, to produce a comprehensive
synopsis of all accepted names, to produce monographic and
phylogenetic treatments, and to make reference materials
available widely and immediately through innovative computer
and internet applications.
STEPHENSON, STEVEN L., *ROLLINS, ADAM W.,
and OVERKING, MARIBETH, *pt. of Biology, Fairmont
State College, Fairmont, WV 26554 USA, Myxomycetes
associated with the litter microhabitat in tropical forests
of Costa Rica.
*STEPHENSON, STEVEN L., LAURSEN, GARY A,
and SEPPELT, RODNEY D., Dept. of Biology, Fairmont
State College, Fairmont, WV 26554 USA, Dept. of
Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska, Fairbanks,AK
99775 USA, and Australian Antarctic Division, Kingston,
Tasmania 7050, Australia, Fungi of subantamtic
Macquarie Island.
Most of what is known about the assemblages of fungi
(including slime molds) associated with particular types
of terrestrial ecosystems and the fundamental roles that
they play in these ecosystems has been derived from
studies carried out in temperate regions of the world.
Relatively little is known about fungal biodiversity and
ecology in colddominated, high-latitude ecosystems.
From late January to early May of 1995, we carried out
a n intensive survey of the fungi of subantarctic
Macquarie Island. As a result of our work, the m y d o r a
of Macquarie island is now known to consist of at least
140 species of basidiomycetes, 55 ascomycetes, and
25 myxomycetes. These totals exceed those known for
the entire south polar region prior to the present study.
Long distance dispersal by wind and birds undoubtedly
accounts for the presence of most of the taxa represented
on this remote island. The closest potential source of
spore inoculum is New Zealand (including the Auckland
Islands and Campbell Island). The vascular flora of
Macquarie Island shows a s h n g biogeographic
relationship with New Zealand. We suspect the same
will prove true for the h g i , the mqjority of which are
saprobic decomposers of vascular plants and bryophytes.
(Supported by grants from the National Science
Foundation and the Australian Antarctic Division.)
50
Most of what is lmown about the assemblages of
myxomycetes (plasmodial slime molds) associated with
particular types of terrkstrial .,?systems has been
derived from studies carried out in temperate e o n s of
the world. The species associated with tropical forest
ecosystems have received very little study. The purpose
of the present study is to obtain data on the distribution
and ecology of the myxomycetes associated with the litter
microhabitat in tropical forests of Costa Rica. Samples
of aerial (dead but still attached plant parts) and forest
floor litter were collected a t three study sites in
southeastern Costa Rica. These samples were returned
to the laboratory and used to prepare a series of moist
chamber cultures for each study site. Based on results
obtained thus far, myxomycetes appear to be relatively
common in the litter microhabitat of tropical forests.
Samples of aerial litter have yielded 18 species, whereas
14 species have been recorded from samples of forest
floor litter. The majority of species appearing in moist
chamber cultures on both types of litter are members of
the Physarales and Trichiales, with members of the
Stemonitales also present but much less common.
Among the most consistently abundant species are
Didymium iridis, 9 sauamulosum. Lamvrodema
scintillans. Perichaena chrvsosverma, and Phvsarum
comvressum. (Supported in part by a grant from the
National Science Foundation.)
*SUTHERLAND, JOHN B., FREEMAN, JAMES P., and
WILLIAMS, ANNA J., National Center for Toxicological
Research, FDA, Jefferson AR 72079 USA, Biotransformation of
phthalazine by Fusarium moniliforme and Cunninghamella
elegans.
The mycelia of Fusarium moniliforme 279 and Cunninghamella
elegans ATCC 36112 were grown in flasks containing 30 ml of
fluid Sabouraud medium and dosed with 50 mg of phthalazine
(2.3diazanaphthalene. a hepatic metabolite of the antihypertensive
drug hydralazine). The cultures were incubated for 3 days at
28°C with shaking at 125 rpm. They then were harvested and
extracted with ethyl acetate, which was dried over anhydrous
sodium sulfate and removed in vacuo. The residues were
dissolved in methanol for analysis. Both fungi oxidized
phthalazine; F. monilifom converted 28% of the substrate to one
metabolite and C.elegans converted 12% to a different metabolite.
The metabolites were purified by HPLC, using an Inertsil ODs-3
analytical column with a 20-min linear gradient of 25-65%
methanol in buffer (50 m M ammonium acetate, pH 5.5). The flow
rate was 1 rnllrnin ,and the W detector was at 254 nrn. The
metabolites were identified by the W absorption and electron
ionization . mass spectra. The metabolite produced by F.
monilifonne had a UV spectrum (A- = 209, 223,241,250, and
279 nm) and a mass spectrum (m/z 63,89,90, 118, and 146 W])
that identified it as l(2H)-phthalazinone. The metabolite produced
= 214,254,296, and 306
by C.elegans had a W spectrum (L
nm) and a mass spectrum (m/z 76, 89, 90, 116, 130, and 146
[M']) that identified it as phthalazine N-oxide.
"TAYLOR.JOSEPHINE, AND GREGORY, PAMELA L,
Department of Biology, Stephen F. Austin State University,
Nacogdochu TX 75962 USA, Infection of dogwood leaves by
the fungal pathogen Clumerelh cingulata.
Glomerella cingulata was isolated from flowering dogwood
(Cornusjlorido) leaves bearing symptoms of leaf scorch in a
Nacogdochu county forest. The pathogen was cultured on
potato dextrose agar where it produced both perithecia with
ascosporu and conidia of its anamorph, CoIIetotrichum sp. A
suspension of conidia was inoculated onto leaves of healthy
seedling1 maintained in a greenhouse. Gernlinating conidia
formed single, unbranched germ t u b u that terminated in
melanizcd appressoria. The pathogen penetrated directly and
produced intercellular and intracellular hyphae. Infection
resulted in necrosis of host cells, with leafscorch symptoms
similar to those observed in nature appearing within 3 weeks
post-inoculation,
SWANN, ERIC C., MCLAUGHLIN, DAVID J.,
FRIEDERS, ELIZABETH M., and SZABO, LES J., Dept. of
Plant Biology, Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul MN 55108
USA, Dept. of Biology, Univ. of Wisconsin-Platteville,
Platteville WI 53818 USA, USDA-ARS Cereal Rust
Laboratory, Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul MN 55108 USA,
The origin of the rust fungi: The Uredinales are not
primitive!
The rust fungi have played an important role in the
development of hypotheses of basidiomycete evolution.
Phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequence data
(ribosomal rRNA genes) contradict the long held view
that rusts are the most primitive group of
basidiomycetes, instead supporting the alternative view.
that the rusts are advanced. Such a shift in thinking
allows a more reasonable interpretation of many of the
characters that previously have been used to place the
rusts at the base of the phylum, i.e., highly developed
parasitism, multiple spore stages, production of
spermogonia and lack of clamp connections. The closest
relatives of the Uredinales include Pachnocybe,
Helicobasidium spp., and the orders Septobasidiales and
Platygloeales (drastically emended). These, along with
the rusts, constitute the monophyletic subclass
Urediniomycetidae, in the class Urediniomycetes.
While some ambiguities remain in the phylogeny of the
basidiomycetes, t b 18s rRNA data provide sufficient
resolution to refu'te the concept of the rusts as primitive.
*THOMAS,DONOVAN D.,and KALES,STEPHEN C.,
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Widsor,
Windsor ON, N9B 3P4, Canada, Chlamydosporogenesisin
Achlya bisexualis is regulated by nutrition and temperature.
Chlamydosporesproduced by certain oomycetes are thick-walled
structures delimited by septa, and often formed in a basipetal
catenulateseries of disarticulating spores. They appear to be a
type of resting sporangium, liberating zoospores directly or fiom
an emerged sporangial hypha.
The effect of nitrogen nutrition on chlamydosporeproduction by
heterothallic female isolates ofAchlya bisexualis was examined
by modifiying the level of glutamate supplied in a defined
medium. The effect of temperature on the production of
chlamydospores was determined using hempseed cultures.
Nutrition experiments indicate that chlamydospore production is
inversely proportional to the glutaxnate concentration, i.e.,
directly proportional to nitrogen stress. Previous experiments had
indicated that carbon stress (in the form of decreased levels of
glucose) bad minimal effects on chlamydospore production.
Growth experiments at temperatures (in the range 10-22C)
showed an inverse relationship between temperature and
chlamydosporogenesis. In addition we noted a reciprocal
relationship between sporangiogenesisand
chlamydosporogenesis, with sporangiogenesis being inhibited
and chlamydosporogenesispromoted at lower temperatures. The
results agree with what might be expected of an opportunistic
colonizer of small particulate substrates in temperate ponds.
Abundant nutrients would be expected to favor vegetative
growth at the expense of relatively persistent resting structures
such as chlamydospores,and lower temperatures might be
expected to elicit a more resistant form of sporangium (the
chlamydospore) at the expense of typical sporangia.
*TORZILLI, ALBERT P., MICKELSON, PATRICK A., and
LAWREY, JAMES D. Biology Department, George Mason
University, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA. Inhibitory effects of
lichen compounds on the lichen mycoparasite
Marchandiomyces corallinis.
Previous field and laboratory studies have demonstrated a strong
correlation between lichen chemistry and the host specificity of
lichenicolous fungi When the lichen pathogenMmchandiomyces
corallinis is cultured on tissue of the lichen Flavoparmelia
baltimorensis, tissue weight loss is similar irrespective of the
presence or absence of endogenous phenolic compounds. In
contrast, degradation of lichen tissues fiom LasaIIiapapuIosa is
greatly inhibited when endogenous phenolics are not removed.
These results are consistent with host specificities as observed in
the field and suggest that M. corallinis has overcome the
chemical defenses of F. baltimorensis but not those of L.
papulosa. To determine the physiological basis of inhibition by
lichen secondary metabolites, we are currently investigating the
effect of these compounds on both the overall growth and cell
wall-degrading activity of M. corallinis. Results show that
growth and cell wall-degrading activity of M. corallinis are
relatively tolerant to the phenolic compounds of F. baltimorensis
but not to those of L. papulosa. Furthermore, in the case of L.
papulosa, the inhibition affects the overall growth of M.
corallinis but not its cell wall-degrading polysaccharidases. This
is contrary to what has been observed previously for the lichen
parasite Nectria parmeliae where lichen compounds inhibit
polysaccharidase activity but not growth.
*TSUI, CLEMENT K. M., HYDE, KEiWN D., HO, WEUCOME
W. H., WONG, WILSON S.'W., YUEN,T. K., HODGKISS, I.
JOHN, Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, The University of
Hong Kong, Pokfblam Road, Hong Kong, Ecological studies on
tropical lignicolous fieshwater fungi.
We have been investigating lipicolous freshwater fungi in the
tropics since 1992 and have identified sevetal new genera. Most
lignicolous fieshwater fungi are ascomycetes or dematia&us *
hyphomycetes, and are a taxonomically diverse group. In
comparison to these fungi found in temperate regions, the tropical
community differs greatly and there is tittle species overlap.
Tropical and temperate isolates have similar optimum growth
temperatures, but the tropical species grow more rapidly at these
optimum temperatures. This probably accounts for the absence of
temperate species in tropical streams. We have now extensively
studied the lignicolous fungi of the Lam Tsuen River in Hong
Kong, and have identitied more than 200 species. At least 20 of
these spedies are new to science. A longitudinal distribution pattern
of the fungi has also been observed. We have also investigated
diversity in other streams in Hong Kong and streams in Australia
(north Queensland), Brunei, Philippines, Malaysia, Mauritius, and
Seychelles and found that fungal communities differed considerably.
In another stream in Hong Kong we have investigated fungal
succession (of hiting structures) on wood, and a distinct pattern
has emerged. Tropical freshwater fungi are thought to be crucial in
wood decay and nutrient cyclii. We are therefore testing the
ability of these fungi to produce a variety of enzymes and their
ability to cause soft-rot decay. We are also investigating the effect
of human disturbance on fungal communities in streams.
*TREDWAY, LANE P., CLARKE, BRUCE B., WHITE,JAMES
F. Jr., Department of Plant Pathology, Cook College, Rutgers
University, New Brunswick. NJ 08901, GAUT, BRANDON S.,
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of
California, Irvine, CA 92697; and RICHARDSON, MICHAEL
D., Department of Horticulture, University of Arkqsas,
Fayetteville, AR 72701, Amplified fragment length
polymorphisms (AFLP) in @ichl& fesfucae and related grass
endophytes.
A new technique, called Amplified Fragment. Length
Polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting, was evaluated for its ability
to reveal molecular markers in Epichi& festucue and related grass
endophytes. AFLP fingerprinting of 26 isolates of E. festucae and
6 other endophyte species with 10 primer pairs resulted in the
amplification of 732 unique restriction fiagments. Of these, 214
(29%) were unique to a single taxon, whereas none were common
to all taxa. Although some differences were observed, neighborjoining analysis of polymorphisms created a phylogeny similar to
that obtained from ribosomal DNA sequences. Within E. festucue,
345 restriction fragments were detected, with 60 (17%) unique to a
single isolate and 46 (13%) common across all isolates. Four
clades of closely related isolates of E. festucue were identified that
corresponded to the host species fiom which they were obtained.
Isolates within each clade had similar growth rates and colony
morphologies in vitro. AFLP appears to be a powefil tool for
revealing polymorphic molecular markers in closely related
organisms and for identifying groups of individuals that are
biologically similar. Future studies will investigate other
phenotypic characteristics that may be associated with variation in
AFLP markers within EpichlM festucae.
*VARGAS, M. M., FIGUEROA, Z., and BUNKLEYWILLIAMS, L., Department of Biology, University of Puerto
Rico, Mayaguez PR 0068 1-9012. Fungi associated with some
freshwater fishes fiom Puerto Rico.
Freshwater fishes were surveyed for hyphomycetous h g i
from several sites inclyding Lajas Experimental Station,
Maricao Fish Hatchery, Guajataca Lake, and the Guanajibo
River in eastern Puerto Rico. Species surveyed were Tilapia
spp., Lepomis macrochirus, and Micropterus salmoida, and
were between 3 and 23 cm long. Tissue samples were taken
from liver, kidney, spleen, heart, skeletal muscle and skin
using aseptic techniques. Samples were inoculated on PDA,
MEA, and BHIA media and incubated at 120,250 and 370C.
Tissues yielded Penicillium, Cumlaria, Cladosporium,
Aspergillus, Fusarium and sterile mycelia. None of the fishes
studied showed disease signs. Our preliminary results suggest
that these fish may either be asymptomatic carriers or the fungi
were waterborne contaminants. These and other questions will
be addressed in future research.
*VOLK, THOMAS J., Dept of Biology and Microbiology,
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse WI 5460 1
[[email protected]]and *HODGE, KATHIE T., Dept. of
Plant Pathology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
[khl [email protected]]. The Impact of the internet on Mycology
VILGALYS, RYTAS and HIBBE'IT, DAVID S. Department of
Botuiy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 and Harvard
University Herbaria, 22 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138.
Colloquium on Basidiomycete Phylogenetics.
This symposium will discuss recent developments in
basidiomycete phylogeny at both the molecular and morphological
levels, along with strategies for cprdination of research efforts
among the systematics commun4.: We have assembled a panel of
active researchers working on diverse basidiolnycete groups,
including David Hibbett. James Johnson. Thomas Bruns, Eric
Swann ,and Jack Fell, who will each briefly summarize their own
recent findings including discussion of issues relevant to taxon
sampling, databasing of sequences, and exchange of research
materials. Ample time is planned for group discussion among the
speakers and audience. One aim of this colloqium is to identify
and bring together researchers working on basidiomycete
phylogeny for the purpose of sharing ideas and infonnation.
Results from these discussions (with plans for future mycological
meetings) and list of participating research groups will be posted
on the WWW at http://www.botany.duke.edu/fungi~phylogeny.
The internet has changed the way we do mycology. It has
promoted fast and easy communication between researchers
through electronic mail and newsgroups. This poster, for
example, was prepared by the co-authors exc)u.sively via e-mail.
One of the newest tools for reaching a b r o a d h g e of people and
educating them about mycology is the World Wide Web, which
can include video and still images as well as text. Many
researchers, teachers and amateur mycologists, especially in
developing countries. do not have access to books or journals
in the field of mycology. Increasing numbers of web sites are
available that provide up-to-date infonnation and illustrations
from nearly every aspect of mycology. Keys and databases are
increasingly available, including such valuable resources as
herbarium and nomenclature databases. One problem is the lack
of peer review on the internet; anyone with a computer can put up
a web site, leading to much misinformation that can be
interpreted as fact. This presentation will discuss some
advantages, problems and the future of the internet as a source of
information. The Mycological Society of America's web page
[http://www.erin.utoronto.cal-w3msa/l, Kathie Hodge's
Mycological Resources on the Internet
[http:Nwww.keil.ukans.edu/-fungilJ, and Tom Volk's Fungi
[http://www.wisc.edu/botany/fungilvolkmyco.hl]
will be used
as a basis for discussion.
*WEIR, A. and BLACKWELL, M., Department of Biological
Sc,ienceS,Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
70803 USA, An investigation of position specificity in
Stigmatomyces using molecular methods.
'WALKER, JOHN F. and MILLER, ORSON, K., Biology Department,
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA, Ectomycorrhizal colonization
of canopy tree seedlings in Rhododendronmaximum L thickets of the
southern Appalachians
Since the early 1940's researchers have noted the highly inhibitory
effect of Rhododendronmaximum L. ( R max) on seedling regeneration.
R. rnax colonizes sites on mesic north facing slopes, in cove forests and
riparian zones in the southern Appalachians. Forest biologists have
expended consideiable resources in efforts to manage R rnax thickets
to enable establishmentof hardwood species. To assess
mycorrhizosphere interactions between R. rnax and canopy tree
seedlings, blocks were established in forests with and without R. rnax
present. Utter and organic layer substrates were recipmlly transferred
between plots in these blocks. The plots were planted with oak and
hemlock seedlings which were hanrested after the first and second
growing season. Seedlings in R. rnax thickets had significantly less
mycorrhizal root tips than seedlings growing away from R rnax (15
44% and 13 20% after one and two years of growth respectively).
Root dry weight and leaf area of the seedlings were reduced in R. rnax
thickets. Seedlings under R rnax thickets experience extremely low
light levels and soluble phosphorous is virtually nonexistent in the soils
at our site. Because of the facilities of ectomycorrhiil fungi to transfer
carbon between tree seedlings and access phosphorous from organic
substrates in the soil, reduced mycorrhizalcolonization in R. rnax
thickets could impare regeneration of canopy tree seedlings in the
Appalachians. The relationship between ectomycorrhizal colonization,
abiotic factors, host tree distribution and occurrence of ectomyconliil
fungus sporocarps will be discussed.
-
-
53
The apparent restriction of some thalli of laboulbenialean fungi not
only to given host species, but to growth on specific body-parts of
their host arthmpods, socalled "position specificity", has attracted
much attkntion. This phenomencm was fmt observed by Peyritsch
(1875) who noted that Stigmatomyces baeri uSually grew on the
upper surface of its female fly host and on the lower surface of the
male. Whilst these observed patterns may be explained by assuming
spore transmission is optimized during copulation, others.
zhter's description of 16 species of Chitonomyces,each
growing in a precise location on the integument of a single species
of African whirligig beetle (Coleoptera, Gyrinidae), can not. We
have obtained rDNA sequence data for 11 species belonging to the
genus Stigmatmyces parasitic on flies (Diptera). Preliminary
analysis of approximately lkb of sequence data for these taxa
reveals that they form a monophyletic grouping within
Laboulbeniales and that geographically isolated collections identified
as the same species using morphological characters show little or no
(0-2 bp) variation in 18s rDNA. Over the same region, however,
different species within the genus vary by up to 50 bp. The spatial
partitioning of more that one species of Laboulbeniales on the body
of a single host species or even individual has been tested with
species of Stigmatomyces parasitic on Parydra sp. (Diptera,
Ephydridae). Thaxter (I93 1) originally described 6 parasite species
on this host genus. 4 l k m the continental United States and 2 from
Jamaica. The rDNA sequence for two of these species. S. borealis
and S. protncdens, which differ considerably in perithecial
morphology, proves to be almost identical (1 bp variation), casting
doubt on the existence of positior~specificityin this instance.
However, data acquisition for more variable DNA regions of more
individuals is needed before position specificity in these taxa can be
equivocally rejected.
*WESTFALL, PATRICK J., MOMANY, MICHELLE C.,
Deparhnent of Botany, University of Georgia, Athens GA
30602 USA, Analysis of septins in Aspergillus nidulans.
The need of a dividing cell to partition its contents evenly into
two daughter cells is faced by all organisms. It is essentially a
two-part process; first a cell must decide where it is going to
divide; then it has to distribute the cytoplasmic and nuclear
contents appropriately between the two new cells. A family of
proteins, called septins, is thought to be essential to fhe cell
division process by marking the cleavage plane, and by serving
as a scaffoldfor the attachment of other proteins that act in
cytokinesis.
Septins were first associated with a series of lOnm rings
formed at the base of the budding daughter cell in the yeast,
Sacchromyces cerevisiae. Since their initial discovery,
homologues to septins have been found in other species
including fruit flies, mice and humans. They seem to be
important developmental proteins, yet very little work has been
done with them in fungal species other than S. cerevisiae.
h e e septin homologues have been found in the filamentous
fungus, Aspergillus nidulans using a degenerate primer PCR
assay. The current project focuses on the analysis of one of
these septins, aspA @spergillus septh AJ. The aspA gene has
been localized to chromosome three based on hybridization to
an ordered cosrnid library. Construction of a null allele by
homologous recombination of a marker gene at the aspA locus
is currently in progress. In addition, fusion proteins of aspA
will be constructed for antibody production, purification, and
localization of the gene product.
WHISLER, HOWARD C., Department of Botany, Univ.of
Washington, Seattle WA 98 195 USA. Is Blastocladiella variabilis
living in the Caribbean ?
With the results from molecular systematics pointing to the
Chytridiomycetes as ancestral to the other fungi and potentially
near the animal world, it would e m appropriate to focus on one
member of this group for more intensive genetic g d molecular
analysis.
In the late 1930's, Harder and Sorgel described a fungus that
appeared idealy suited for such study. Isolated from soil collected
near Monte Cristi in the Dominican ~ e ~ u b l iBlastocladiella
c,
variabilis was claimed to have the morphologic simplicity of a
chytrid and the life cycle advantages of an Allomyces. Although
well established in the literature, this organism has not been reisolated. However, a.set of 159 soil samples taken along a transect
of the Island of Hispaniola in 1977, by Ralph Emerson and this
contributor did provide other species of Blastocladiella in
sufficientabundance to warrant further search in the West Indies
for this intriguing species. A review of the on-going study of these
soil samples, and the description of an effective isolation procedure
may, hopefully, lead to the rediscovery of B. variabilis, or perhaps,
after further failures, to its relegation to mycological history.
*WHITE,MERLIN M., LICHTWARDT, ROBERT W., AND
MISRA, J. K., Department of Botany, University of Kansas,
Lawrence,. KS 66045, USA, Fungi associated with passalid
beetles and their mites.
*WIM(A, KATARINA, and ERIKSSON, OVE E., Dept. of
Ecological botany, U m d University, SE-901 87 Urn& Sweden,
Relationships of the marine ascomycete Papubsu, based on 18s
rDNA sequence analyses.
We report on the occurrence of three Trichomycetes (currently
in the genus Enterobryus) and a branched fungus that live in
separate hindgut regions of passalid beetles, and two
Laboulbeniales, one on the beetle mites. The eastern North
American passalidbeetle (bess bug), Odontotaeniusdisjunctus,
commonly harbours three or four of these six fungi; whereas
other fungal species have been found in more tropical regions.
Enterobryus menuatus, first described more than 150years ago,
however, occurs throughout the range of Passalidae in the
Americas where different genera and species of passalids have
been collected.
Attempts to culture Enterobrps spp. are yet to be successful.
However, successful preliminary culture attempts indicate that
the branched hindgut fungus, believed to be undescribed,
converts to exhibit yeast-like growth in vifro. This sort of
transitional dimorphism (when attempting to culture) appears to
be an uncommon strategy.
Many new species of marine ascomycetes have been found on
Juncus roemerianus along the mid Atlantic coast of the USA
The monotypic genus Papulosa was described in 1993 as a
"unitunicate ascomycete incertae sedis". The keys indicated that
Diaporthales were the closest relatives, but Papulosa has
paraphyses, and an amyloid ring in the ascus, which is not
present in Diaporthales. Cannon (1988) merged Phyllachorales
with Diaporthales, but this still does not permit inclusion of
Papulosa. We have sequenced the 18s rDNA gene from
Papulosa amerospora and Phyllachora graminis for the purpose
of establishing the relationships of the genus Papulosa. We also
inluded Monographella nivalis (Hyponectriaceae) since this
family is not accommodated in any order yet and has been
proposed to'bave affmities with the Phyllachorales. Our
phylogenetic analyses included 33 ascomycetes, representing 8
orders of unitunicate pyrenomycetes, the EurotialeslOnygenales,
the Pleosporales, and Glaziella aurantiaca (Pezizales) as
outgroup. Our results indicate that the closest relatives of
Papulosa are the Ophiostomatales. Phyllachora is not closely
related to Diaporthales, but clusters within the Sordariales, and
another member of Phyllachorales, Glomerella, appears closest
to Hypocreales. Monographella (Hyponectriaceae)groups with
X ylariales.
'WRIGHT. C. A.12, S. BALAlEE3,. R. G. THORN4,E. A.
PAUL192 AND C. A. REDDYlJ., NSF Center for Microbial
Ecologyl, and Departments of Crop and Soil, Science2 and
~icrobiology3., Michigan State University, E. Lansing, M I
48824., Department of Botany4., University of Wyoming,
Laramie, WY. 82071.. Distribution of ligninolytic enzymes in soil
basidiomycetes.
Soil basidiomycetes isolated from a long tern d o g i b
agroecosytem site were examined for the distribution and relative
abundance's of lignin peroxidase (LIP). manganese dependent
peroxidase (MNP) and laccase (LAC). The abundance's of these
ligninolytic enzymes produced by 24 isolates was correlated to
two soil treatments; physical perturbation (tillage) and diversity
(species richness and heterogeneity) of plant material inputs. LAC
was produced by 90% of all isolates. MNP was produced by 40%
of all isolates. No isolates produced LIP in vitro, although the
potential for the production of LIP was evidenced through
molecular probing. .82.5% of the isolates from tilled soils produced
LAC it1 vitro and 62.5% pkoduced MNP. 40% of the isolates from
no till soils produced LAC irt vitro and 40% produced MNP.
100% of the isolates from successional community soils produced
LAC in vitro and 75% produced MNP. These data support the
hypotheses that basidiomycetes isolated from a disturbed site have
a higher distribution of ligninolytic enzymes than isolates from a
nondisturbed site and basidiomycetes isolated from a soil with a
high diversity of-plant material inputs have a higher distribution of
ligninolytic enzymes than those isolated from a soil with a lesser
diversity of plant material inputs.
'WU, QIU-XINI, MUELLER, GREGORY MI.. HUANG,
YONG-QMG2, and QUIST, DAVIDI, ]Botany Department,
Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL 60605; 2Institute
of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080,
China. Preliminary assessment of macrofungal diversity in the
temperate forests of Chang Bai Mountain, China.
Chang Bai Mountain International Biosphere Reserve is situated
in northeastern China. The vegetation in Chang Bai Mountain
consists of typical boreal and temperate components with sinoJapanese elements. These elements occur in a series of uniquely
well-defined zones. We conducted a two-year survey of macrofungal diversity in two of these zones, one located in mixed
forest dominated by Pinus and deciduous trees at 770 m
altitude, and the other in Picea and Abies dominated mature
forest at 1632 m altitude. At each site, 1000 m2 sampling plots
were established. The plots were surveyed once each year either
in late August or early September, and in both years our
fieldwork was preceded by meaningful precipitation. Occurrence
and frequency of species, including saprobic and
ectomycorrhizal fungi, were recorded during the survey. species
richness was high at both sites, but our preliminary data indicate
that there is low species overlap between the two sites with
only a little over 30% similarity in species composition. The
number of macrofungal species decreases significantly with
increase in altitude and decrease in tree diversity. While the
number of species collected at each site remained fairly constant
between years, species overlap between the two years was low.
*WU,MEI-LEE, Department of Mathematics-.and Science
Education, TMTC, Taipei 100 Taiwan ROC, Some Orbilia
species new to Taiwan .
While investigating the saprophytic ascomycetes in Taiwan, three
species of Orbilia have been collected from Fushan Botanical
Garden and Huisun Forestry Station at elevations between 650m
750m. Orbilia inflalula and 0 . delica!ula were found to grow on
decorticated wood and woody stems, while 0. auricolor was
found only on the petiole of the fern of Attgiopteris lygodi~olia.
The three species are described and illustrated based on materials
collected from northeastern and central Taiwan between 1996 -.
1997. All three are reported fiom Taiwan for the first time.
Furthermore, the fern as the substrate for Orbilia is also reported
here for the first time.
-
WU,SHENG-HUA, Department of Botany, National Museum of
Natural Science, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC, Five new species of
Phanemhaete from Taiwan.
Phanemhaete P. Karst. is usually treated by mycologists as a
member of the heterogeneous Corticiaceae. Phanemhaete is
lignicolous, saprobic, and uniformly causes a white rot in wood,
and ca 90 species are known, representing one of the largest
genera within the Corticiaceae s.1. A survey of Phmemhaete
from Taiwan based on specimens mostly collected in recent years
has revealed that numerous species are undescribed. Nine new
species of this genus from Taiwan has recently been presented.
This study further reports five new species of Phanenxhaete h m
Taiwan: I? angustocystidiata, I? P . Z I? lam I? odontio~ddea,
and I? subwontioidea. Descriptions and illustrations are provided
for these five new species. This result indicates that Phmerochaete
species are highly diversified in tropical-subtropical regions, and
numerous species are necessary to be investigated and described.
'YmZ-MORALES, MARIA, KORF, RICHARD P., and
BABCOCK, JAMES F., Department of Plant Pathology,
Cornell University, Ithaca NY 14853 USA, Sclerotium
orobanches, a long-forgotten fungus o n Ep@gus
(Orobanchaceae), and its Phoma synanamorpk
ZHANG, QISHUI., SUBLEK SCOTT, and EDWARDS,
CLIVE A, Soil Ecology Lab, Department of Entomology,
The Ohio.State University, Columbus. OH 43210 USA,
Saprophytic fungal community structure in agroecosystems:
effects of earthworms
Sclerotium orobanches Schwein., described o n the roots
and stems of Epifhgus virgininnus in North America i n
1822, was sanctioned by Fries in the same year; Fries
recorded it in 1828 from Scania (Sweden) and Germany
on Orobanche major. Fries's specimens from Europe are
not in his herbarium, and no other European collections
are known. We have found only two additional North
American references in the literature: Schweinitz's 1832
compilation, and a n 1869 collection by Howe reported in
one of Peck's early annual reports a s New York State
Botanist. Surprisingly, no North American host indices
have recorded it (or any other fungus) on this host. We
have recollected this apparently rare species i n New
York, and describe here both its miaoanatomy and its
synanamorph, a n as yet apparently undescribed species
of Phorna, found both in nature and readily produced in
pure culture. Under some cultural regimes only sclerotia,
under others only pycnidia, and under still others both
sclerotia and pycnidia are produced. No other species of
the genus Phoma is known with such a massive sclerotial
synanamorph.
Interactions between earthworms and kngi can strongly
influence system-level nutrient cycling in agroecosystems.
The grazing of earthworm on soil microorganisms may have
significant effects on fungal species composition and
abundance. We added earthworms to experimental plots in a
corn-soybean agroecosystem in Piketon, Ohio, and sampled
soils from these plots and from control plots with ambient
earthworm populations. We also sampled soils from
earthworm middens (mounds of soil, earthworm casts and
organic litter form at the opening of Lirmbricits terrestris)
and from nearby, non-midden (bulk) soil in a corn
agroecosystem in Wooster, Ohio. Fungal species were
isolated and species abundance distribution was calculated.
Fungal species richness was significantly higher in
earthworm treatment plots than in control plots, and in
middens than in bulk soils. Patterns of species abundance in
earthworm addition plots and middens were best described
by a geometric distribution model. The doininant species in
earthworm addition plots and earthworm rniddens.were
Paecilomyces marpiandii, Acremtjtiium bytyri, and
Penicilliirmjanthirielliim. The results suggest that
earthworm activity may be an important factor controlling
the composition of fingal communities in these soils.
*CALABRESE, GRACIELA, M. and MATIERX, CELINA, M.,
CRUB-University of Comahue, 8400 ~ariloche,Rio Negro,
Argentina, Annohted list of the mosses fiom Puerto Blest and
surrounding area (Nahuel Huapi National Park, S v Argentina).
CASADO, CHRISTINA M., Missouri Botanical Garden, PO Box
299, St. Louis, Missouri 63166-0299, Perspectives on the genus
Streptopogon Wils. (Portiaceae)
Historical records of the mosses fiom Northern Patagonia date
back to 1905 with Du&s explorations. Subsequent short lists
have been published by Herzog in 1940 and 1957. No other
comprehensive list has been published since, only a few
additional scattered records are found in monographic papers.
All historical data together with the study of ca 500 specimens
obtained during recent regular explorations allowed this updated
assesment of the moss flora. The area under survey runs fiom
750 at lake level to over 1000 m a.s.l., near the tree-line, in the
Nothofagus dominated region. The resulting local moss flora
has strong links to the Valdivian and Southern Chilean moss
flora. The total flora amounts to. 120 moss species, in seventy
diierent genera. Detailed investigation has also been made on
the species substrata, life forms and most common moss
communities. The first annotated list of the mosses fiom
Northern Patagonian region at Pt. Blest, within the National
Park Nahuel Huapi is presented together with its ecological
data.
Streptopogon Wils. (Pottiaceae)is a tropical moss genus for which
there are 14 currently accepted species names and 20 names in
synonymy. Ecologically, Streptopogon is an aty-picai member of
the Pottzaceae, occuring on trees (trunk and branches) and rocks in
humid forests as opposed to in arid environments. It occurs
throughout Latin America, central and southern Aliica,
Madagascar and Hawaii. Some species share anatomical
similarities with members of the Calymperaceae, such as
propagula borne at the leaf apices. Others have a percurrent costa
and bear conspicuous primordial utricles at the leaf tips, or filifonn
propagula at the leaf margins. A taxonomic revision of this genus,
its mechanisms of dispersal and reproduction as well as aspects of
its biogeography will be presented here.
COLEJ4ARIE'ITE s.~, GLENN,
MARIAN G-2,
FISCHESELIZABETH A. 1, DZURENKO, HOLLY 2, and
WEBB,SARA 1 Department of Biology, Concurdia University,
St. Paul, MN 55104 2 Department of Biology, Seton Hall
University, South Orange, NJ 070793 3 Department of Biology,
Drew University, Madison NJ 07940 Bryophyte Colonization on
Thirteen Year Old Tree Falls
*DE LUNA, EFRAIN', GONZALEZ, DOLORES', NEWTON,
ANGELA E. MISHLER, BRENT D.' & WITHEY, ALISON,
'~nstitutode Ecologia A.C., 91000 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico,
2University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, Preliminary
Twelve Populus tremuloides and Pinus resinosa logs in an old
growth forest at Itasm State Park, NW Minnesota known to have
been blown down in a windstorm in 1983, were studied in detail
with respect to bryophyte flom The data were compared with that
from trees of the same species at the same site blown down in a
recent windstorm, allowing a comparison of the flora of
decomposing logs and standing trees. The followin species were
species:
found on the thinecn year old logs of
Brachytheciwn salebrosum, Caflicladim haldanianwn,
Dicranella heteromalla, Hypnwn pallescens, Platygynwn
repens, and Nowellia curvifolia. Mniwn curpidatum,
Amblystegium serpens, and Haplocladiwn micmphyllwn were
abundant on P. tremuloides but sparse on P. resimsa
Liverworts were more common on P. resinosa, especially on
decorticated bark. The flora of the standing tree was shown to
influence the floxa of fallen logs. The most common bryophyte
species on the decomposed P. nemuloides logs were also
sparsely present on the recently felled logs: A. serpens, B.
salebroswn, H. pallescens, M. cuspidanun and P. repens.
However, old logs lacked the Fdlania of the recently felled logs
All species found on the recently felled P. resinosa trees were also
found on the old logs: C. h a l d a n i m , H. pallescens, L
.
heterophylla, and P. repens.This study demonstrates that the
substrate species influences the bryophyte flora even after t h i n
years of decay, and that the original flora of the standing tree is a
strong influence on the flora of thirteen year old logs.
Pleurocarps include mosses commonly recognized in the orders
Bryales, Hypnales, Leucodontales and Hookeriales. The cladistic,
delimitation of these lineages and their relationships have not
been adequately resolved due to uneven taxon sampling or to
difficulties with morphology. We studied thirty-seven species,
aiming to sample the diversity in the four orders by using anchor
taxa, and avoiding volatile taxa. Morphological variation was
coded in eighty multistate characters. In addition rbcL gene
sequences were obtained from the same taxa. Heuristic searches
were performed with PAUP for each data set separately, and with
the combined matrix. Both consensus trees from the separate
analyses were well resolved but showed discordant results. The
molecular tree indicated two major clades. One clade mostly
included pleurocarp representatives of the Bryales and the
Bartramiaceae and Mniaceae. A second clade consisted of taxa
traditionally placed in the Hypnales, Leucodontales and
Hookeriales, but these orders were not monophyletic. The
morphological tree did not recover the two clades of the
molecular tree. The combined tree recognized a clade consisting
of pleurocarps from the Bryales, Hypnales, Leucodontales and
Hookeriales. The latter three o r d h form a monophyletic group,
but with little internal resolution. These preliminary inferences
can be used to design fiuther sampling for more detailed analyses.
Ltb
*DePRIEST, PAULA T., HALE, BEATRICE W., and
FARR, ELLEN, Department of Botany, NHB-166,
National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian
Institution, Washington DC 20560 USA, Electronic
databases of lichen names in the Parmeliaceae and
Cladoniaceae available from the US Herbarium.
Products of systematics research, including descriptions,
distributions, ecologies, phylogenies, and nomenclatures,
must be made accessible and relevant to an audience
beyond the walls of the herbarium. Recent developments
and increased availability of internet and the World Wide
Web (WWW) provides an opportunity for these products to
reach to a wider audience of lichenologists, amateurs,
biologists, and policy makers. In two recent projects, we
have prepared lists of accepted names, synonyms and
basionyms for electronic distribution via WWW. In the
first roject, we updated a database of species epithets in
parm!oid genera originally produced and informally
distributed by Mason E. Hale. The 4,000 epithets in the
updated database represent approximately 1,500 accepted
species names among 36 parmelioid genera that can be
accessed from either epithets or synonyms. The electronic
database will be released as part of its publication by
Smithsonian Contributions to Botany. In a second project,
we are preparing a relational database of approximately 500
accepted names and 2.500 synonyms and basionyms in the
Cladoniaceae based on Tuevo Ahti's. "Names in current
use. . ."(Regnum Vegetabile 12858-106. 1993).
Ultimately, the accepted names will be linked to .
distribution maps, descriptions, bibliographic citations, and
illustrations, all elements of traditional printed monographs.
',
inferences on the phylogeny of the pleurocarp diplolepidousalternate mosses from rbcL sequences and morphology.
*ESCORCIA, SOBEIDA, and SASTRE-D.J, MES.
Biology Department, University of Puerto Rico,
Mayagilez Campus, P.O. Box 9012, MayagUez, P.R
00681-9012, Chlorophyll concentrations of four
bryophyte species in a fragmented secondary
subtropical moist forest in Puerto Rico.
Total chlorophyll concentration was determined for
Lejeunea trinitensis Lindenb., Neckeropsis undulata
(Hedw.) Reich., Cyrro-hypnum involvens (Hedw.) Buck
& Cnun, and Tmithelium planum (Brid) Mitt. from
three karstic (limestone) zones in the metropolitan San
J u k area of Puerto Rico. Photosynthetic pigments were
extpcted by immersion in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
and read at 645 and 663 nm in a Shimadzu W-120
spectrophotometer. Two-sample paired t-test was
perforded to compare the mean concentration for each
species at their different localities. Chlorophyll
concentrations in N undulata, C. involvens, and T.
planum were significantly higher in areas distant from
the industrial district, but those of L. trinitensis were
significantly lower. This suggests that L. trinitensis is a
stress tolerator because its chlorophyll content increased
at disturbed areas. The chlorophyll a 1chlorophyll b
ratios were calculated and were found not to be
correlated with the atmospheric purity.
FAHSELT, D. Department of Plant Sciences, University of
Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5B7 CANADA,
Quantification of phenolic lichen products using a UV
transilluminator.
*GEISm LINDA H USDA-Forest Seavice, Siuslaw National
Forest, P.O.Box 1148, Corvallis, OR 97339 USA, Air quality
assessment and baselines using lichen communities in national
forests of western Oregon and Washington.
The importance of quantifying lichens compounds is increasing
because precise information on concentrations provides an
indication of innate thallus-to-thallus differences within
populations as well as the distribution of substances in differently
aged thallus parts. Furthermore, environmental factors may alter
phenolics quantitatively and these changes must be evaluated.
Differences in total phenolic levels can be assessed through dry
weight determininations and accurate measurement of individual
compounds can be accomplished using HPLC, but a quantitative
method that could be applied to separated compounds on TLC
plates would be a useful alternative. The possiblity of
quantification of acetone soluble products of Peltigera aphthosa
densitometrically was assessed using a UV transilluminator with
scanning capabilities, and phenolics from sites in the Canadian
Rocky Mountains were compared in this way. The method was
shown to be accurate within 6.7%, and significant site-to-site
differences were observed in some compounds. Light-filtering
experiments performed in the field revealed significantly higher
levels of tenuiorin and methylgyrophoricacid in samples exposed
to ambient visible light and W - A than in those exposed to
visible and both UV-A and B.
A multivariate analysis of lichen communities was used to
assess air quality on the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic
Area and on foui national forests in western Oregon and
Washington: Gifford Pinchot, Mt. Hood, Willamette, and
Siuslaw. Epiphytic macrolichens were surveyed on 1100
permanently marked sites, belonging to a 3.4 mile regional
inventory grid system, during the summers of 1994-1997. One
quarter of the sites were surveyed each year. Methods and
quality control procedures followed the national EPA/USFS
Forest Health Monitoring protocols, which involved a two-hour
search for lichen species and estimations of abundance at each
site. Protocols were implemented by trained personnel and
checked by systematic audits and repetitions. Environmental
variables for the sites were obtained from the USFS PNW
'Region Current Vegetation Survey database.
Gradients
considered in the analysis were air quality, elevation, climate,
distance from the Pacific coast, stand age, and vascular plant
community. Baseline air quality maps, based on current lichen
community composition, are presented.
*GOFFlNET. BERNARD, and SHAW, A. JONATHAN.
Department of Botany, Duke University, Durham NC
27708. USA. Phylogeny of the Splachnaceae, inferred from
bm5 and rps4 sequences (cpDNA), with special emphasis on
the evolution of entomophily.
*GOLLAND, EKATERINA, and EHRENFELD, JOAN G.,
Dept. of Ecology and Evolution, Rutgers University, New
Brunswick, NJ 08903 USA, The effects of Cludonia spp. on
the soil microbial community and the higher plants in the New
Jersey Pinebarrens.
The Splachnaceaecurrently comprise approximately70
species distributed amonn 7 genera. The relationships of the
f&l have traditionally-been thought with the ~unhaceae.
tad on the gametophytic similarities. Phylogenetic
affinities i n i d from analyses of rbcL, rps4, rrnL and 18s
sequences suggest however that the Splachnaceae belong to
a clade of bryalean taxa (Cox & Hedderson 1997; Goffinet et
al. 1998) and analysis of 110 rps4 sequences representing all
major lineages of masses suggest that the Splachnaaxx are
not monophyletic and include the Meesiaceae as well as the
bryaceous genus Leptobryum (Goffinet et al. unpubl.).
Based on a restricted sampling of Splachnaceae in this large
analysis, Splachnrcm appears sister to the remaining taxa
Affinities within the Splachnaceae-Meesiaceae-Lqtobryum
clade were further examined via maximum parsimony and
maximum likelihood analysis of 39 trnL and 46 rps4
sequences, consening Splachnum to a basal position
Both data sets support the monophyly of a clade comprising
Brachymitn'on. Ten-aplodon, Taylonh and Voitia, but the
relationships among the genera are ambiguous. T n L and
rps4 sequences are also congruent with regard to the
pmphyly of the most speciose genus, Tayloriu, with either
Tetraplodon and Brachymitrion (tmL) or only Brachymitrion
(rps4) being nested among clades of Tayloriae . The
affinities of Haplodon appear to be with the Meesiaceae
based on 17x4. Additional, taxa are currently being
sequenced. The implications for the evolution of adaptations
to entomophily, such as sticky spores, false columella, etc.
will be addressed based on the more extensive set of taxa
The NJ Pinebarrens are a series of pine-oak dominated forests,
growing on poor sandy soils, situated in Southern New Jersey.
The understory is generdly composed of ericoid shrubs. Large
areas are covered by Cladoniaceae and mosses and these areas
often persist for over 30 years. This ecosystem is highly
adapted to fire and trees and shrubs reinvade burnt sites
quickly. However, intense fires often consume the organic
layer, leaving patches of bare sand behind. These patches are
usually colonized by lichens and mosses.
We hypothesized that Cladoniaceae can preserve the nutrientpoor status of these patches by antibiotic inhl'bition of soil
decomposers. The vascular plant colonization can be prevented
by: 1)allelopathicinhibition of seed germination and
mycorrhizae formation and 2)lack of nutrients. Thus, lichens
can hinder the succession by shrubs and trees, maintaining a
characteristic open-canopy forest.
The results of vegetation survey confinn this hypothesis: the
presence of lichens is negatively correlated with the presence of
shrubs and organic layer, while the presence of shrubs and
organic layer are positively correlated. Our preluninary analyses
indicate that soil under lichens has lower total h g a l length and
nutrient levels than soil under the vascular plants. These results
seem to indicate a negative effect of lichens on soil microbial
community, nutrient Gatus of the soil, and the higher plants.
58
*HANSON, DAVID T., GRAHAM, LINDA K., SWANSON,
SARAH, AND SHARKEY, THOMAS, D., Department of
Botany, University of Wisconsin, Madison WI 53706 USA,
'Evolutionaryand ecological importance of isoprene emission h m
mosses.
Isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) is a volatile hydrocarbon
emitted in a light and temperature dependent manner by all major
groups of land plants, but is apparently lacking in charophycean
algae. Our emission surveys, combined with others, show that
isoprene emitters are most common in mosses and become
progressively less common in ferns and angiosperms respectively.
These data suggest that light dependent isoprene emission evolved
in mosses. Isoprene has been shown to protect photosynthesis
against high temperature in angiosperms, and is hypothesized to
be most beneficial d h g rapid temperature fluctuations.
Characterization of the light and temperature response of isoprene
emission from Sphagnum suggests a similar fimction in mosses.
Field measurements have shown that Sphagnum capitula
frequently reach temperatures of 30-40 degrees C during the
summer in Northern Wisconsin. At these temperatures, Sphagnum
loses 0.5-4 % of the carbon fixed from photosynthesis as isoprene.
Mosses are believed to be among the earliest land plants, and do
to the low heat capacity of air compared to water, they would have
had to adapt to the wide and rapid temperature fluctuations in a
terrestrial (aerial) environment. We hypothesize that isoprene
emission aided early moss-like land plants in the colonization of
land. Subsequently, many plants may have replaced isoprene
emission with other, less costly, thennotolerance mechanisms.
LaFARGE-ENGLAND, C. Systematics of Leucoloma
Brid. Dicranaceae).Departrnent of Botany. Duke University,
Durham North Carolina, 27708 A Tropical genus centered in
Madagascar. Morphological and molecular data.
Leucoloma Brid. is a pantropical genus with nearly half of
the species endemic to the East African Islands. The majority
of the species are epiphytic and in Madagascar are
predominantly restricted to the narrow strip of eastern
rainforest and isolated remnants of the drier forests of the
central plateau regions. A phylogenetic analysis of the
infrageneric taxa based on morphological data, resulted in a
newly proposed classification. A test of the resulting
hypothesis has been made with preliminary analyses from
molecular data Generic, subgeneric and species levels are
examined for genetic variation. Morphological and genetic
character evolution is examined with respect to parsimony
analayses.
*LADD, DOUGLAS and GRABNER, JENNIFER K., The
Nature Conservancy, St. Louis, MO 63144 USA and University
of Missouri, Columbia, MO 6521 1 USA, The MOFEP lichen
project: profiling the lichen vegetation of the Ozark highlands.
Lichen vegetation was sampled within nine large woodland units
in the Lower Ozark region of southeastern Missouri as part of
the Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP), an
ongoing long-tenn study assessing impacts of various forest
management practices. Corticolous lichens were sampled at base
and breast height of trees within stratified random macroplots.
Temcolous, saxicolous and litterfall lichens were sampled along
line transects in these macroplots. Canopy lichens were sampled
from four branch size classes in recently harvested sites. More
than 250 lichen species were documented from the MOFEP
sites, with all nine units having a high degree of floristic
resemblance. Macrolichens, although less diverse than crustose
taxa, were highest in aggregate relative importance on all but the
youngest canopy branches. Corticolous species association
patterns were correlated with vertical placement and, to a lesser
extent, tree species. Individual species displayed a range of
autecological patterns, with some generalist taxa and other taxa
strongly restricted to specific substrates and microhabitats.
Distinctive species groups are evident in the Ozark highlands,
including a suite of largely crustose pioneer lichens on small
canopy branches, a cohort of predominately foliose taxa and
Pertusaria species on mid-bole sections of trees, and some
lichens, including gelatinous taxa, characteristic of tree bases.
Tree size appears largely unrelated to lichen richness or species
composition, with exceptions likely due to bark characteristics.
*LAWREY, JAMES D.', DEPRIEST, PAULA T . ~and
,
TORZILLI, ALBERT P.', ' ~ e ~ a r t m e of
n t Biology, George
Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA, 2~epartment
of
Botany, NHB-166, National Museum of Natural History,
Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560 USA,'
Phylogenetic position of the genus Marchandiomyces, a
mitosporic group of lichen parasites.
The genus Marchandiomyces is comprised of three species of
mitosporic fimgi that parasitize lichens. A paucity of
morphological characters in the genus has led to much
speculation about the relationship of Mmchandiomyces to other
fungi. We obtained pure cultures of twospecies of
Marchandiomyces, M. corallinus (collected from Virginia) and
M. aurantiacus (from Luxembourg). These cultures were used to
obtain complete nucleotide sequences of the small subunit
ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) from each species. This
information permitted an examination of their positions within
an existing'phylogeny developed for 80 representative
Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes, with three zygomycetous
fungi as outgroups. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequence data
indicated that the two taxa were closely related members of a
basidiomycete clade. Preliminary analysis of the SSU rDNA
sequences of Hobsonia chrisriansenii, a species that is
morphologically similar to M. coraNinus and sometimes
considered a synanamorph, indicates that it is ascomycetous.
LUMBSCH, H. THORSTEN, Universitiit Essen, Fachbereich
9,45! 17 EBsen, Germany, Taxonomy of tropical species in
Lecanora sensu stricto
Lecanora Ach. is a large and heterogenous genus that includes
morphologically and chemically diverse species. In the tropics
some Lecanora groups belonging to subgen. Lecanora have
their centre of distribution. The characters used for the
distinction of species, such as the presence of various
chemosyndromes and the structure of the epihyrnenium and
amphithecium, are discussed and the distribution patterns of
some species are shown. The circumscription of some tropical
groups in Lecanora and the systematic importance of some
characters used for the disctinction of these groups in the
genus, such as the color of the hypothecium, presence of usnic
acid or chlorinated xanthones, and the presence of oxalate
crystals in the amphithecium, are discussed. A revised
circumscriptionof Lecanora sensu stricto is develpped and the
distinction from siniilar genera, as Tephromela, Vainionora,is
shown.
MCLETCHIE, D. NICHOLAS, School of Biological
Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 405060225 USA, Observations of sex mtios. successful sexual
. asexual
. . reproduction in the epiphyllous
reproduction and
pdhWi (Lejeuneaceae,
liverwort,
Bryophyta).
An association between female-biased adult sex ratios and
reduced sexual reproduction is observed in temperate
bryophyte species, but the causes of this bias are not well
understood. Over 1000 plants of the tropical epiphyllous
were censused to
liverwort,
estimate sex ratios, and sporophyte production. These planrs
occurred on 16 branches (177 leaves) of the host plant &gaua
carifusa. Plants of unknown sex (29%) were not used for sex
ratio calculations. Overall sex ratio was female-biased (0.37,
proportion of males). Among branches, sex ratios were
heterogeneous (0.14 0.92). Females on host leaves with
males were more likely to produce sporophytes than females
on host leaves without males (0.70 and 0.45 respectively).
Thus, sex ratios and associated reproductive pattems in
are similar to reported patterns in bryophyte species.
The occurrence of asexual reproduction (via gemmae) was
censused to determine if clonal reproduction differed between
the sexes. Males were more likely to have gemmae than
females (0.33 and 0.24 respectively), indicating that males
were either more likely to produce gemmae or less likely to
disperse gemmae compared to females. This sex specific
pattern suggests that gemma production is one demographic
trait that can influence adult sex ratios and consequently sexual
reproduction in
w,
-
'
w.
*MAGOMBO, ZACHARIA. Missouri Botanical Garden, P.O.
Box 299. St. Louis, MO 63166-0299, U.S.A.. Taxonomic
relationships among New World Diphysciwn (Musci:
~kbaumiaceae).
Twenty three species of the genus Diphyscium are currently
known to be distributed in the world. They are grouped into three
groups according to leaf characters: (i) species with smooth leaf
cells, (ii) species with pleuripappillose leaf cells, and (iii) species
with unipapillose to mamrnillose leaf cells. Previously twenty
specieswere known to be geographically restricted with 5 species
in the New World, 2 in Oceania, 1 in Africa and 12 in Asia But
recently Diphysciun poscii previously known only fiom M c a
was also found in Honduras. There is a total of 7 species in the
New World. As is the case with Diphyscium else where, some of
the New World species are not well separated and may not be
taxonomicaHly different. In this paper the taxonomic relationships
among the New World species are discussed.
*MILLER,DONNA H., Department of Biology, University of
West Alabama, Livingston, AL 35470 USA, Morphological
anomalies in Cyclodicfyon (Hookeriaceae).
During preparation of a monograph on Cyclodicfyon, several
features quite unlike those observed in typical mosses appeared
in the herbarium specimens beingexamined. As these
anomalies were repeated on different stems, or even in different
collections, documentation seemed worthwhile. Costa
strucm, normally double and extending beyond midleaf,
varied in several ways--some were divided again above the
base to create a multicostate leaf, others generated more than
two costas at the leaf base; one had but half of the usual double
costa so only a single curved vein remained on one side of the
leaf; some had much swollen cells, resembling motor cells, at
the insertion of the costa to the stem. Club shaped appendages
resembling propagula appeared at some leaf bases. Leaf shapes
were usually of a typical oblong to oval shape but several times
distinctly one or two lobed leaves were observed. A
perichaetium was found with two sporophytes. Even though
such structural modifications are not now known to be
consistent, they may serve as clues to possible origin or
relationships among several levels of taxa. The
photomicrographs serve to illustrate some of the variations.
'NEWTON, ANGELA E. & DE LUNA, EFRAIN., Sistematica
Vegetal, Institute de Ecologia A.C., 91000 Xalapa, Veracnrz,
Mexico, Transitions to pleurocarpy: Four complex morphological
character systems.
*MILLER, HARVEY A., Department of Environmental
Sciences, University of West Alabama, Livingston, AL 35470
USA, Bryophytes and lichens used in reclamation.
In surface mining, handling of the overburden involves not
only its removal but also its deposition in a manner which is
environmentally acceptable including establishment of
vegetation on the overburden site. In the alpine New Guinea
region, mines produce large amounts of overburden which
must be placed in an area where mosses and lichens are the
usual pioneer species and remain a significant part of the
vegetation. Species of Stereocaulon, Cladonia, Breutelia,
Dicranum, and Racomitrium colonize large areas and are
important soil holders during the daily rains. The almost
continuous fog and high humidity combined with cool
temperatures create good conditions for propagation of
cryptogams. As part of the reclamation program for
overburden areas, masses of mosses and lichens were
gathered, chopped, and incorporated into the seed mulch being
spread over the soil. The mosses and lichens a% establishing
well on the overburden areas.
Characters used for phylogenetic studies are hypotheses of taxic
and transformational homology. As such, they need to be explicit,
and as far as possible, to represenf independent evolutionary
events. A fundamental concept for this character analysis is the
conjunction test of homology. Complex morphological systems
may consist of two or more elements, each varying
independently, so that a wide range of different forms results.
"Deconstructing" such complexes can provide a number of
informative characters that can be explicitly described, facilitating
comparisons across a wide range of taxa. Four such complexes
associated with the transition to pleurocarpy are branching
architecture, rhimid morphology, axillary hairs and vaginulacalyptra morphology. Branching architecture includes characters
relating to orientation, modularity, point of origin, termination
and leaf differentiation of lo, Z0 and fertile modules. Rhizoid
morphology includes characters relating to point of origin,
branching, surface features, color, distribution, and density.
Axillary hair characters include number, form and color of basal
cells and tenninal cells, branching, insertion, number, distribution
and variation across the leaf base. The vaginula-calyptra complex
includes characters relating to zone of elongation, distribution of
perichaetial leaves and archegonia, foot insertion, and elaboration
of the ochrea and the vaginular collar. Evolution of an individual
character can then be studied in a phylogenetic context on
cladograms resulting from congruence among all characters.
PITTAM, SHERRY,*HANUS, JOE, NEWSOME, MARK, &
CAMACHO, FRANCISCO, Dept. of Botany & Plant Pathology,
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 9733 1. Publirhing
Scientific Databases on the Web:A Solutionfor Biolo@tr.
*PETERSON, ERIC B. AND MCCUNE, BRUCE, Dept.
Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State University, Corvallis
OR 97331 USA, Predicting community composition with a
phenomenological model based on direct gradient analysis.
The Pacific Northwest forest plan requires that surveys be
conducted for many old-growth associated species, including 16
species of Caliciales. Given the experience required to
accurately survey and identify Caliciales, it is likely that surveys
conducted by forest management agencies will be minimal. We
propose that a model capable of predicting Caliciales
community composition in forest stands will greatly supplement
the required surveys. The model makes the consideration of
Caliciales much more practical for use in forest management by
suggesting species to look for in particular stands. The model
analyzes the concentrationof species along gradients in a
database. Gradients include macro-environmental characters
and stand.structure. Output yields probabilities for the
occurrence of each species within a stand slated for survey. The
database includes surveys fiom a representative set of stands.
Accuracy should improve as the number of sampled stands
increases. Software for use of this model is under development.
The model concept and software are likely to be applicable to
other groups of organisms.
61
It is a duty incumbent on research scientists, collections managers,
and others who have built banks of valuable scientific data to make
that infomalion available, insofaras the sensitive nature of the data
permits, to others. In fact, h d i n g agencies are pressing major
database owners (ag.LTER sites) to provide access to warehoused
information. Heretofore, publication of large scale biological
databases on the internet was a difficult, expensive procedure
.requiring computer professionals. Even then the design was often
in£lexible, and objects such as images could not, be managed
effectivelyacross platforms. OAen, softwarehad to be distributed to
remote uys;or clumsy, user-hostilecommand line interfaces were
required. The capabilities of web browsers makes them ideal for
remote database access. However, until recently no easy way
existed for biologists to connect their databases to a network and
then have a remote user query them with a web browser. We will
describe our projects to (i) build a suite of sobare that allows
biologists to build browser-based interfaces to their databases,
without forcing them to become computer programmers and (ii)
demonstrate the efficacy of these by discussing online Web-based
query pages to existing data ranging h m herbaria collections and
fungal surveys, to synoptic keys. We will also present a relatively
non-technical view of how the software functions to mediate
between the high-endcommercial RDB and the user's Web-browser
to allow hypertext browsing of biological datasets.
*PITTAM, SHERRY, HANUS, JOE, WEBER, NANCY, &
NEWSOME, MARK, Dept. of Botany & Plant Pathology, Oregon
State University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 97331, New Approaches in
Education: Combining the Power of Web & Database Technology
Use of the Web and high performance computing for teaching has
been a tantalizing goal for both K-12 and university educators.
Unfortunately, the potential is seldom realized. Connectivity and
computational power do not guarantee that a network resource,
though brimming with important information, will ever be used. We
have utilized a high-end relational database (rdb) (Sybase) and
specializedsoftware developed at Oregon State University installed
on a networked UNIX server to build kyto maintain web
interfaes to the rdb. This opened exciting possibilities to produce
projects coupling the data storage and retrieval capability of the rdb
with the multimedia power of the Web to construct demonstration
teaching tools that have been well received by the teaching comrnunity as well as by interested amateur naturalists. Most importantly,
the computer skills are minimal for interface design, allowing the
scientists who are most familiar with the information to present it in
a manner most suitable for their user community. Three examples
of the power of this approach will be discussed: (i) Lichenland is a
synoptic key incorporatinginstructional annotation and illustrations
for identification of lichens; (ii) Plant Pathogenic Nematodes-A
Self-Teaching Diagnostic Key is a self teaching guide to nematodes
of agricultural importance; and (iii) PezWeb-A key to the fungal
order Pezizales, provides a synoptic key to this order and couples
the taxonomic data to a literature database. All are accessible at
http://mgd.orst.eddeggplant.html.
PRICE, MICHELLE J., Missouri Botanical Garden, PO. Box
299, St. Louis, M O 63166-0299, A revision of the genus
Rhynchostegiopsis MUl1. Hal. (Hookeriales:Musci).
Rhynchostegiopsis is a small Neotropical genus reported fiom
Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean to South America It
has been placed in the Leucomiaceae (Allen, 1987; Buck, 1988) or
Hookeriaceae (Whlttemore & Allen, 1989). Rhynchostegiopsis is
placed in the Hookeriales on account of both gametophytic and
sporophytes characters. The genus, described in 1897, comprises
eight tax& It is characterised by serrate leaf margins, absolutely
ecostate leaves with thin walled, long lax leaf cells, no central
strand, no pseudoparaphyllia and well developed endostomialcilia
Rhynchostegiopsis rturicolor and R. cupressina are considered
synonomys of Rfrexuosa (Wijk et al., 1962), and R. lutescens has
been placed in synonomy with R. tunguraguana (Crum, 1994).
Rhynchostegiopsis species are found on logs, soil and trees in
humid forests over a range of elevations.
*REYES-COL~N, CARMEN M., and SASTRE-DJ, IN&,
Biology Department, University of Puerto Rico,
Mayaguez Campus, P. 0 . Box 9012, Mayagiiez, P.R.
00681-9012, Floristic relationships among forests of
Puerto Rico using liverwort and hornwort richness.
*ROSSO, ABBEY L., MUIR, PATRICIA S., and
MCCUNE, BRUCE. Dept. of Botany and Plant Pathology,
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 9733 1. Responses of
shrub epiphyte communities to overstory thinning in forests
of western Oregon.
The liverwort and hornwort flora of Puerto Rico consists
of 264 species distributed in 92 genera and 27 families.
The Lejeuneaceae is the most diverse family with 112
species, followed by the Plagiochilaceaeand
Lepidoziaceaewith 32 and 25 species, respectively.
The highest species richness was found in the Luquillo
Tropical Rain Forest, with 67% of the hepatic flora. A
species list was made using the information found in the
literature, different herbaria, and recent collections by
bryologists. A cluster analysis (UPGMA) was conducted
to establish possible floristic relationships among forests.
Forests with similar rainfall levels were grouped together.
Two main groups were observed: high to medium
elevation forests and lowland elevation forests. Some
forests that appear to be quite dissimilar clustered
together; possibly due to lack of knowledge of their
bryoflora.
Concern about effects of forest management on biological
communities has led to increased interest in the potential use
of thinning to foster old growth characteristics and enhance
biodiversity in managed forests of the Pacific Northwest. We
surveyed lichens and bryophytes on tall shrubs as part of a
larger interdisciplinary study of the effects of thinning in
young stands. Shrub epiphyte communities were compared
between unthinned young stands, thinned young stands, old
growth, and apparent "hot spots" of epiphyte diversity in 17
study blocks in western Oregon. Multivariate analyses
indicated there were differences between communities in the
Coast versus the Cascade Ranges, as well as between stand
types. In both ranges, communities in thinned stands were
less similar to those in old growth and.hot spots than were
communities in unthinned stands. Shrub characteristics, such
as stem age, as well as stand characteristics, apparently
influenced the diversity, abundance and composition of shrub
epiphytes. The average age of shrub stems was lower in
thinned stands than in unthinned stands suggesting that
traditional thinning altered understory epiphyte communities
in part by damaging the shrubs.
SANDERS, W. B. University Herbarium, University
of California at Berkeley, C A 94720-2465 USA.
Thallus morphogenesis in some fruticose lichens:
integration versus independence of fungus and alga in
axis growth, apical branching, and lateral branching.
The terete thallus axes of many common fruticose
lichens, such as Usnea. Alectoriar, and Brvoria, develop
from apical morphogenetic zones in which fungal
growth and algal cell division are intimately
associated. Distinct thallus layers differentiate from
this integrated mixture of symbionts. Apical
branching occurs by division within this zone, while
lateral branching involves the emergence of a new
integrated apex from differentiated thallus tissue. A
contrasting pattern of morphogenesis is found in a
fruticose Aspicilia sp. known from California. At
branch apices the mycobiont extends distally from the
medulla beyond the lichenized cylinder. This
prothallic growth becomes secondarily incorporated
into the lichenized thallus by subsequent development
of algal layer and cortex. Apical and lateral branches
are initiated by the mycobiont without direct
participation of the photobiont. Some other fruticose
lichens show intermediate and variant patterns of
symbiont integration in thallus morphogenesis.
*STARK, LLOYD R., Department of Biological Sciences,
University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154-4004 USA,
MISHLER, BRENT D., Department of Integrative Biology,
University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-2465 USA,
MCLETCHIE, D. NICHOLAS, Center for Evolution, Ecology
and Behavior, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 405060225 USA, and BOWKER, MATTHEW A., Univ. of Nevada,
Las Vegas, Male rarity and sporophytic rarity in Mojave Desert
populations of Syntrichia caninenis (Pottiaceae. Bryophyta).
Female-biased sex ratios are often observed in dioicous species
of mosses, with the basis of this phenomenon unknown. In the
Nevada Mojave Desert, a field survey was undertaken to
determine the frequency of sex expression and sporophyte
production within populations of the common desert moss,
Synirichia caninenis. Individual stems of S. caninemis were
randomly sampled and examined under a dissecting microscope
for size and sex expression. Habitats were characterized as to
spatial relationship to blackbrush shrubs (Coleogyny). The
likelihood of a stem expressing sex over the course of its
above-ground lifespan was only 0.16. Of those stems
expressing sex, females outnumbered males 14: 1. Frequency
of mixed-sex populations (0.02) corresponded with frequency
of sporophytic populations (0.03). Populations that produced
sporophytes were restricted to soil on the north-facing side of
Coleogyny, and consisted of larger plants that expressed sex
more frequently than plants growing in more exposed locations.
We hypothesize that females are sperm limited, and are
presently investigating mechanisms resulting in male rarity.
SHAW,A.JONATHAN, Department of Botany, Duke University,
Durham NC 27708 USA, Molecular phylogeography of
Mielichhofena elongata and M. mielichhoferiana.
The internal transcribed spacer (ITS)region of nuclear ribosomal
DNA was sequenced from 75 populations ofMielichhoferia
elongata and M. rnielichhoferiana. ITS-I and ITS-2, respectively,
are 367-372 bp and 348-360 bp in length. There were 150
autapomorphic and 84 phylogenetically informative sites in ITS-1,
and 60 autapomorphic and 24 informative sites in ITS-2. 16 and 5
unambiguous indels were coded as additional characters in ITS-1
and -2, respectvely. Sequence divergence among populations ofM.
elongata ranged fiom 0 to 7.1% (mean = 2. I%), and in M.
mielichhoferiana from 0 to 3.3% (mean = 1.1%). Populations of
M. elongata fiom California, characterized by little variation at
isozyrne loci, had a mean sequence divergence of 0.55%; Colorado
populations that are highly variable at isozyrne loci had a mean
divergence of 1.8%. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that M.
elongata is monophyletic but M.mielichhoferiana is paraphyletic.
Two clades, one North American and one European, were resolved
within M. mielichhoferiana. Two major clades were also resolved
within M. elongata. One is entirely North American (including the
high arctic) and the other includes populations fiom both North
America and Europe. One population from California had a highly
unusual, apparently recombinant ITS sequence that contains a
combination of markers otherwise diagnostic for the two species.
The hybridization event that appears to have produced this
sequence involved plants ofM. elongata in the non-California
clade, although the recombinant plants presently occur in Fresno
County, near typical California plants ofM. elongata.
*STUBBS, CONSTANCE S.. Department of
Biological Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, ME
04469 USA, Dispersal of corticolous lichens by the
slug, Arion subfuscus.
Foraging generalist Arion subfuscus. "the dusky
slug," climbs tree trunks in Maine forests to graze
upon lichens, nonlichenized fungi, and other slug
edibles after periods of heavy rain (June--October).
Observations indicated the lichen diaspores, soredia
and lichen fragments, accumulated, at times. in a
mucous ball (slime ball) that formed at the posterior
end of its body. Studies, investigating the frequency
and rate af soredia acquisition in slime balls, the
viability of these accumulated soredia, and their fate
through the deposition of these slime balls to new
substrates, indicate that A. subfuscus is an effective
dispersal agent of Hypogyrnnia physodes.
*WHEELER, JOHN A., WALL, DENNIS P., AND MISHLER,
BRENT D., University Herbarium and Department of
Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley CA
94720 USA, Preliminary analyses of the phylogenetic
relationships of Calymperaceae using rbcL sequences.
Calymperaceae (consisting of Calymperes, Syrrhopodon, and
Mitthyridium) is a widespread and diverse group of mosses that
mainly occurs in tropic& and subtropical habitats. Calymperes
and S'hopodon are both widespread and variable genera with
many species; paleotropical Mitthyridium may be a relatively
recent radiation possibly derived from within a paritphyletic
Syrrhopodon. Various historical and modem workers align the
group with Pottiaceae or Leucobryaceae; other recent
molecular-based work suggests a relationship to Grimmiaceae.
Circumscriptionof C.alymperaceaeand its relationships to a
wide sample of putative outgroups will be examined using
sequences'fiom the plastid-encoded rbcL gene. Fundamental
questions to be addressed include: is Calymperaceae a natural
(monophyletic)group? What is the sister'group to
Calymperaceae? Are each of the constituent genera
(Calymperes, Syrrhopodon, and Mitthyridium) natural? Taxa
that demonstrate a homogeneous rate of sequence evolution (via
relative rate tests) will be evaluated for the Dresence of a
molecular clock A d this will be used to hypothesize the basic
timing of evolutionary events in this phylogenetic arena (e.g. is
Mitthyridium a recent radiation as the circumstantial evidence
suggests?). This work will serve as the foundation for future
monographic study of Calymperaceae (supported by NSF PEET
grant # 9712347).
*ZHU, RUI-LIANG and SO, MAY LING, Biology Department,
Hong Kong Baptist University, 224 waterloo Road, Hong Kong,
China, A revision of the genus Cheilolejeunea (Hepaticae,
Lejeuneaceae) in China.
Cheilolejeunea is a large and diverse genus of approximately 80
species. Most of t b species in this genus are distributed in the
subtropical and tropical regions while only a few species extend
into the temperate regions. This genus comprises 23 in Africa, 21
in Borneo, 17, including varieties in Australia, 13 in Western
Melanesia, 12 in Japan, and 9 in India. Our recent studies reveal
that the genus contains 19 species in China, including 6 new to
China, C. fitzgeraldii (Steph.) X.-L. He, C. pluriplicata (Pears.)
Schust., C. s e p n t i m w t t . ) Mizut, C. subopaca w t t . ) Mizut,
C. verrucosa Steph, and C. vitta (Steph. ex Hoffm.) Schust. &
Kachr. Pycnolejeunea eximia Jovet-Ast & Tixier is transfemed to
Cheilolejeunea. Cheilolejeunea latidentata Chen & Wu and
Cheilolejeunea subplanilobula Chen & Wu are proposed as
synonyms of Cheilolejeunea eximia (Jovet-Ast & Tixier) Zhu &
So and Cheilolejeunea longiloba (Hoflin.) Kachr. & Schust.
respectively. Cheilolejeunea rigidula (Nees ex Mont.) Schust. is
excluded fiom China. Spores of several species are studied under
scanning electron microscope. Geophytography and ecology are
discussed, and descriptions and illustrations are presented for
each species.
*ZANELLI, MARCO, CERIAM, CRISTINA and SGORBATI,
SERGIO, Dept. of Biology, University of Milan, 20133 ITALY,
Flow cytometric analysis of nuclear DNA content of different
Homalothecium sericeum populations.
The aim of this work is to study the nuclear DNA amount of the
gametophyte generation of a number of Homalothecium
sericeum populations fiom diierent italian localities. We used
flow cytometry techniques to measure the DNA content of nuclei
extracted fiom the gametophytes. Nuclear suspensions were
filtered and stained with two DNA fluorocromes. The first one
was DAPI, used to obtain the best resolution of the nuclear DNA
fluorescence; the second one was propidium iodide used for
measuring the absolute DNA content of the sample by means of
a suitable biological internal standard (chicken erytrocytes,
DNA=2.33 pg). The results show that populations of nuclei with
different DNA content were often present in the same sample.
All the individuals presented a population of nuclei with a DNA
content of 0.607 pg f 0.008 s.e., that we considered the "c"
DNA value of the aploid complement of the H. sericeum
gametophyte. In an individual exists a population of nuclei with a
DNA content corresponding to a "2c" value. In a few other
individuals of different stations, additional populations of nuclei
with variable but always smaller DNA content with respect the
"c" DNA value of the species observed. To our knowledge, this
work presents the first determination of the nuclear DNA content
of the division Bryophyta. Flow cytometric analyses revealed an
unexpected, complex situation of the DNA content in H.
sericeum, which requires further investigation in order to
ascertain the extent and the significance of the DNA content
variations present in these plants.
I ?IM
I
MSAIABLS Meeting News
ALERT
The 1-800 telephone number for the
A
I
i
San Juan,
Puerto Rico
s
B
A
Condado Plaza Hotel and Casino
in the previous Inoculum is incorrect.
The correct telephone number
is:
Please pass this information on to others. The telephone number in the MSA web page is correct.
Meeting information
Registrations Waivers for student help:
There are still slots available for student help in exchange for a registration waiver.
See the previous Inoculum for details.
Workshoplforay information:
Registration rebates: The decision regarding the submitted grant proposal to defray the
cost of the ascomycete workshop is expected soon. Receipt of this grant will allow a
reduction in fees for participants of that workshop. If the proposal is successful rebates
will be available from Jean Lodge. Jean will inform attendees regarding the process for
obtaining the rebates.
Housing alternative: For those desiring housing other than the dormitories during the
workshops, phone numbers are available for hotels in Luquillo that are convenient to
the workshop site. Contact Jean Lodge (1-787-888-3801) for these numbers
Workshop and Foray status report: If you are wondering about the availability of space
in the workshops and on the forays, be assured that there is plenty of space in all of
these activities. None of them is nearing capacity at this moment. However, consider
that for the workshops students have priority status. Non-students are being put on a
waiting list in order of receipt of registrations for slots available when the registration
becomes "open".
Phone messages during the meeting:
Messages may be left for MSAIABLS meeting participants at the following
number: 1-787-721-1000. A message board will be available and for the
hotel residents, messages can be directed to the voice mail in the room.
MSA Auction:
Once again the MSA Endowment Committee will host the annual MSA auction at the
Social. This will be held on Monday evening, June 15. This event is most enjoyable
and is a major source of Society funds that are used to support student travel awards
and other important society activities. So, search your shelves and laboratory and the
dark recesses of your offices (if you can still get into them) and send or bring your
difficult-to-part-with treasures to be auctioned for the good of the Society. The auction
depends .on you for success; so, make a donation to this good cause. Then come to the
auction and spend, spend, spend. The Social will be replete with good food and drink
to provide the appropriate mood for the event.
Some of the always popular items for the auction are:
*Classic out of print books and reprints.
*Teaching materials (slides, videos, material for culturing, identified specimens).
*Mycoiogical art or crafts (tacky is okay.......p referred by some).
*photomicrographs or other mycological illustrations (e.g. original plates)
*Mycological attire, clothing with mycological designs, etc.
*Other "myco-stuff' including, cooking implements or other accessories for the
moldy home.
*Let your imagination be your guide....or just wander aimlessly.....if there is a
difference.
Notify Jeff Stone, as soon as possible, about the items that you will donate to be
auctioned. Bring your items with you to Puerto Rico (if at all possible, to save Jeff and
Jean a major hassle of transporting ALL of these items) or send them to Jean Lodge or
Jeff Stone at the following addresses:
Jean Lodge
Center for Forest Mycology Research
Forest Products Laboratory
Palmer, PR 00721
Phone: 787-888-3801
Jeff Stone
Dept. Of Botany and Plant Path.
Cordley 2082
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 9733 1-2902
Phone 541-737-5260
Optional activities:
Numerous activities are available for those wanting alternatives to the forays or the
MSNABLS daytime activities. A day of snorkeling is available on June 11 (Thurs.)
for about $65.00 including lunch and transportation from San Juan. Information on the
complete selection of activities in and around San Juan is available from the San Juan
Convention Bureau (telephone - 1-800-866-7827).
E-mail hook-up:
An e-mail line may be available to conference attendees but this is not confirmed at this
time.
MYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 1998
Mycological Society of America 1 American Bryological and Lichenological Society
June 11-16 1998 San Juan, Puerto Rico
The 62nd Annual Meeting of the Mycological Society of America (MSA) will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Organized
in cooperation with the American Bryological and Lichenological Society, this meeting will give mycologists, lichenologists
and bryologists an opportunity for scientific exchange in a small group setting. Regular contributed sessions will be held fi-om
Sat. June 13 to Tues. noon June 16 at the Condado Plaza Hotel and Casino. Located on the beach in the Condado region of the
city, the hotel offers spectacular views of the ocean and the attractions of nearby historic Old San Juan. Two forays, the
'Tropical Fungal Foray on Thursday,' on June 1lth and the 'Taste of Puerto Rico Foray' on June 12th will emphasize tropical
fungal diversity. Workshops offer an opportunity for more intensive study of tropical Corticiaceae, ascomycetes or slime
molds.
REGISTRATION AND RESERVATION f m s are available in the December, 1997 issue of Inoculum Vol. 48 (6), pp. 4-5.
May 15, 1998 is the deadline for early registration.
PRELIMINARY PROGRAM OUTLINE
Friday
starting
time
8:OO
June 12
Saturday
June 13
room 1
room 2
S1
Oral contr.
Ecology
1190
16:OO
20:OO
2 1:00
Tuesday
June 15
room 1
room2
MSA
xxx
breakfast
June 16
room 2
room 1
S2
S6
S7
Oral contr. Symposium Oral contr.
Hyphal
Systematics/
Ecology
growth
Evolution
xxx
xxx
S11
xxx
Karling
Lecture
xxx
S 12
S13
S15
S16
Oral conh. c)ral contr.
Pathology/ Ecology,
Physiology
System.
/Evolution
<--lunch->
Council
meeting
14:OO
1590
1790
18:OO
19:OO
Monday
June 14
room 1
room 2
Council
meeting
990
930
1O:OO
12:OO
13:OO
Sunday
Mixer
Presidential
address
S3
Symposium
xxxxx
S9
S4
Oral contr.
S8
Oral contr. symposium Oral contr.
System./ Mushroom System./
Oral contr.
Evolution
Evolution
Cultivation
International Systematics/ cell biology
collaboration
Evolution
S9 Posters
S 14 posters
S5 Posters
committee
MSA social
member
S10
meeting
Discussion
basid.
systematics
'I'he planning committee for this meeting includes Hal Burdsall, conference manager, Jean Lodge, foray and workshop chair;
and Mary Palm, President and council representative. For further information please contact Mary Berbee, program chair, by
photle: (604) 822-3780, FAX: (604) 822-6089, or e-mail: [email protected]. We believe that this first Caribbean
MSAIABLS meeting will be a truly memorable experience for all attendees.
inoculum MSA Endowment Funds
The Newsletter
of the Mycological
Society of America
Supplement to Mycologia
Volume 49, No. 2
April 1998
lnoculum is published six times a
year and mailed with Mycologia, the
society's journal. Submit text copy
to the editor by electronic mail (as
message or MS Word attachment),
a s hard copy with PC formatted
diskette (specify word processor
format on the diskette), or as hard
copy. Line drawings and highcontrast black-and-white photos are
welcome. The editor reserves the
right to select, delete, correct and/or
edit copy submitted for publication
in accordance with the policies of
Inoculum and the Council of the
Mycological Society of America.
Lorelei L. Norvell, Editor
Contributions
I wish to contribute $
fund(s):
Mentor Travel Funds:
-Trappe
-Alexopoulos
-Uecker
-BarksdaleIRaper
-Wells
-Bigelow
Research Funds:
-Butler
-Backus Graduate Award
-Den i son
-Martin-Baker
-Fitzpatrick
-A.
-Fuller
Other Funds:
-Korf
-Alexopoulos Prize
-Luttrell
-Uncommitted Endowment
H. and H. V. Smith Award
Other (specify)
-Thiers
I wish to pledge $
Pacific Northwest Mycology Service
6720 NW Skyline Boulevard
Portland, Oregon 97229-1 309
Phone: 503-297-3296
Fax: 503-296-6745
E-mail: [email protected]
a year for
years
to the following hnd(s):
to the uncommitted endowment, or
to some other specified purpose:
MSA Officers
President: Mary E. Palm
Rm. 329, Bldg. 0 1 l a
BARC-West
Beltsville, MD 20705
301 -504-5327
[email protected]
to the following named
Name and
Address:
President-Elect: George C. Carroll
503-346-4522
[email protected]
Vice President: Linda M. Kohn
905-828-3997
[email protected]
Secretary: Maren A. Klich
USDA, ARS, SRRC
1100 Robert E. Lee Blvd.
New Orleans, LA, USA 70124
504-286-4361
[email protected]
Treasurer: Richard J. Howard
Science & Engineering Laboratories
DuPont Central Research & Develop.
PO Box 80402
Wilmington, DE 19880-0402
302-695-1494
[email protected]
Past President: James H. Ginns
[email protected]
-Check
-Credit Card Type (Visa, Mastercard, etc.):
Credit Card No.:
Exp. Date:
Signature:
Please send lhis cornpleted fonn andyour
contribution to:
Dr. JeEey Stone, Chair, MSA Endowment Committee
Depamnent of Botany and Plant Pathology, Cordley 2082, Oregon State
University, Corvallis, OR 9733 1-2902
Mycological News
Systematic Biology - Mycologists on Board!
Three MSA members have recently
joined the Editorial Board of
Systematic Biology: Associate Editor
David Hibbett and Board Members
Mary Berbee and Francois Lutzoni.
Systematic Biology is the leading
journal of phylogenetic biology and
presents papers including empirical
and theoretical studies using
molecular and morphological
approaches. The purpose of this
announcement is to encourage MSA
members to consider submitting
phylogeny-related articles to
Systematic Biology. Inclusion of
mycological articles in Systematic
Biology will benefit mycology by
bringing fungi to the attention of a
broad community of evolutionary
biologists. The Editor has invited
editorial board members with
expertise in various areas, including
mycology, so that papers can be
handled by editors and reviewers
knowledgeable in diverse fields.
Consult a recent issue for information
on the submission process.
-- David Hibbett
Boyd Professorship
Louisiana State University has
recently named Meredith Blackwell
Boyd Professor, the most prestigious,
distinguished professorship bestowed
on a faculty member. MSA long ago
recognized Meredith's potential as a
mycologist by awarding her in 1983
the Alexopoulos Prize, which
acknowledges outstanding
contributions to mycology early in
one's career. Meredith has since
served MSA in many capacities,
including President in 1992- 1993.
She is currently Secretary-General of
the International Mycological
Association.
Congratulations Meredith!!!
--President M a v Palm
Mycologist Wins UK
Outstanding Thesis Award
Alex Weir, Department of Biological
Sciences, Louisiana State University,
has been awarded the Irene Manton
Prize of the Linnean Society of
London for the best PhD thesis in
Botany for the United Kingdom for
1997. Under the terms of Professor
Manton's will, the award takes the
form of "a small piece of sculpture or
other work of fine art" from Professor
Manton's collection and a generous
cash award contributed by the society.
Alex completed his degree in 1997
working jointly at University of
Newcastle upon Tyne with Gordon W.
Beakes and at The Natural History
Museum, London, with Peter M.
Hammond. His award-winning
thesis, Comparative Biological and
Taxonomic Studies on Tropical and
Temperate Laboulbeniales (Fungi,
Ascomycota), included an assessment
of numbers of Laboulbeniales from
beetles collected in North Sulawesi,
and indicates that tropical diversity
may be high because host species are
numerous, especially beetles. You can
find out more about Alex's work on
the world wide web at
http://lsb380.plbio.lsu.edu/
LabPersonnel/Alex.html
and
http://www.chem.lsu.edu/
-wwwpb/BlackwelI/aboul.htm1
--Meredith Blackwell
Mycologists Flood California at Harry D. Thiers Foray
A crowd of 450 registrants braved coastal landslides,
flooded sloughs and Pacific gales to attend the Dr. Harry
D. Thiers North American Mycological Association
(NAMA) Foray at Asilomar on the Monterey Peninsula
February 13-16. Dr. Dennis Desjardin served as Chief
Mycologist and keynote speaker, while Harry Thiers gave
a beautifully illustrated talk on Californian Boletes. Other
MSA members invited to serve as speakers, lead
workshops and/or field trips into new swamps and higher
ground, and identify fungi (and who sampled a vast array
of gustatory fungal delights) included Ben Woo, Nancy
Smith Weber, Rod Tulloss, Jim Trappe, John Taylor,
Walt Sundberg, Paul Starnets, Elio Schaechter, Judy
Roger, Ron Petersen, Lorelei Norvell, Orson Miller,
Andy Methven, Dave Largent, Alan Bessette, and
~acquelineBaar. Patrick L a c o c k (new project leader)
a n d ~ a c kMurphy (out-going
leader): of the
NAMA-Field Museum of Chicago vouchering project,
supervised the input and documentation by NW
and
NAM.4'98 sponsored graduate students fiom Humboldt
Walt Sundber and Ellen Thiers with honoree Dr. Harry Thiers
during an ~sfiomarrainbreak. Photo courtesv Scott Redhead.
State U (Sarah Bergemann, Wil Franklin), San Francisco
State U (J. R. Blair, Kelly Collins, Brian Perry, Kristin
Thiers Foray, continued
Peterson, Atik Retnowati), U of
California (Martin Bidertando), U
of Washington (Sharmin Gamiet,
Brandon Matheny, Michelle Seidl)
and Virginia Tech (Cathie Aime).
Walt Sundberg (Southern Illinois
U), who was appointed Institutional
Trustee by NAMA President Allein
Stanley, joins other institutional
trustees Joe Ammirati (U of
Washington), Orson Miller
(Virginia Tech), Ron Petersen (U
of Tennessee), and Robert Shaffer
U of Michigan). MSA was
officially represented at the NAMA
Trustee's Meeting by non-voting
participants MSA Liaison
Committee chairman (Norvell) and
past chairman Scott Redhead and
by voting trustees Miller and
Petersen. During the meeting,
NAMA trustees voted to invite a
MSA Liaison Committee member
to serve on their Inter-Society
Liaison Committee (voting rights
granted if the representative is a
NAMA member) and requested that
the NAMA-sponsored MSA
scholarship (in 1998 to be named in
honor of Helen Smith) be granted
to a promising doctoral candidate
specializing in the study of
macrofungi.
-- Lorelei Norvell,
MSA Liaison Committee
Mexican Mycological
Society Elects Officers
The Department of Plant Pathology
at Washington State University is
proud to announce that on February
27 two former students were elected
President and Vice-President of the
Mexican Mycological Society. Dr.
Felipe San Martin, who received
his MS and PhD (1992) in the
Department under the supervision
of Prof. Jack Rogers, was elected
President and Dr. Guillermo
Fuentes-Davila, who received his
MS with Prof. Ruben Duran and his
PhD (1988) with Dr. R
Gabrielson, was elected VicePresident.
Rutgers Adjunct
Gerald Bills has been appointed
adjunct professor in the Department
of Plant Pathology, Rutgers
University. He is looking forward
to interactions with his mycological
colleagues Jim White and Peter
Oudemans and to helping out on
some teaching assignments.
Obituaries
Department of Plant Pathology,
Washington State University
announces the deaths of two retired
faculty members:
Dr. Charles "Chuck" Gould,
formerly of the Western
Washington Experiment Station,
Puyallup, died at the Arizona home
of a son in January, 1998.
Dr. Charles Gardner Shaw, a
well-known mycologist and plant
pathologist who spent a long career
at Washington State University,
died at home 12 February, 1998. He
was born 12 August, 1917 in
Springfield, MA and married Esther
Anne Tennant 17 August, 1940.
Children from the union are Sharon
Anne Taber; Charles Gardner Shaw
111 ("Terry"), and Mark Tennant
Shaw. Gardner, as he preferred to
be addressed, earned the B. A. at
Ohio Wesleyan; the M. S. at Penn
State, and the Ph.D. at University of
Wisconsin under M. P. Backus. He
served in the Marine Corps during
WWII. Gardner joined Washington
State University (then Washington
State College) in 1947, becoming
Chairman in 1961 and serving
through 1972. He retired in 1983.
Career highlights: A well-known
teacher and researcher in mycology
and forest pathology, Gardner was a
world authority on downy mildew
fungi. He was the driving force
behind the WSU Mycological
Herbarium, advisor of many
graduate students and authored over
130 scientific papers. He was twice
chief-of -party for USAID-WSU
with the Jordanian Ministry of
Agriculture.
Mycological Classifieds
Read the Mycological Classifieds
for announcements of courses,
employment opportunities,positions
wanted, and mycological goo& and
services offered or needed.
Positions Available
New York Botanical Garden
Herbarium -- Mycology
Curatorial Assistant. The New
York Botanical Garden Herbarium
has an open position for a
Curatorial Assistant to participate
in the incorporation of fungus
collections ;ecently donated by
Kansas State University. The
position has funding for one year,
pending confirmation of receipt on a
National Science Foundation grant
for the project.
Job duties: segregate exsiccati
ffom non-exsiccati specimens;
repair damaged specimen packets,
update nomenclature on specimens,
catalog specimens into NYBG's
institutional specimen database, and
file specimens in the herbarium.
Reports to: Administrative
Curator of the Cryptogamic
Herbarium (Dr. Barbara M. Thiers).
68
Experience and qualifications
required: a) course work in
mycology, or herbarium experience
with mycological collections
preferred, b) experience with
computer databasing and wordprocessing, c) organized, neat,
detail-oriented, and d) good verbal
and written communication skills
Education: B.S. or M.S. in
botany or mycology, with emphasis
on taxonomy preferred.
To apply send rBsumC and
names of three referees to: Barbara
M. Thiers, New York Botanical
Positions Available, continued
Garden, Bronx, NY 10458-5126. If
you have questions regarding the
position, please Email
[email protected]. You can learn
more about the New York Botanical
Garden at our website
<http:l/www.nybg.org>. The New
York Botanical Garden is an
Affirmative ActionIEqual
Opportunity Employer.
Research Biological Technician.
USDA Forest Service, Tree1 Root
Biology Team, Athens, GA. (GS
404 71819, salary range $26,075 to
$4 1,470 per year). This is a
preliminary outreach announcement
for a permanent, full time biological
technician. Applicants must be US
citizens. Major duties involve
working with root disease fungi,
insectlfungal interactions,
photosynthesis, and physiology1
biochemistry of roots and stems of a
variety of forest tree species.
Expertise and experience in one or
more fields such as mycology1
microbiology, plant pathology,
botany, and related subjects are
desired. Generally, a MS degree or
BS degree with appropriate
experience is necessary. An ability
and desire to learn is a must. The
position involves work in both
laboratory and field, often under
arduous conditions, and at times
requires considerable travel.
Interested persons should contact by
mail or FAX: Dr. William J.
Otrosina, USDA Forest Service, 320
Green Street, Athens, GA 30602.
FAX 706 546 2 143. A brief r6sumC
would be helpful. This position is
expected to open in May, 1998.
Abbott Laboratories -- Fungal
Geneticist/Physiologist
As a lead Scientist in our
Fermentation Microbiology R&D
Group, you'll participate in the
strain improvement of fungal
microorganisms involved in the
production of secondary
metabolites. This position requires
a Ph.D. with postdoctoral or
industrial experience and a solid
background in fungal physiology or
genetics. A demonstrated
proficiency in the screening,
isolation or construction of fungal
strains with desired metabolic
characteristics would be
advantageous. Familiarity with
both classical and molecular genetic
approaches desirable. Good
communication skills and the ability
to work productively in a
multidisciplinary team setting are
essential.
For immediate consideration,
forward a cover letter and r h m d
detailing your work experience to:
Abbott Laboratories, Job Code 98PAH-0129, Dept. 39Y, Bldg. Al,
1401 Sheridan Rd., North Chicago,
IL 60064-4000. To learn more
about our company, see our website
at www.abbott.com. An EOE, we
are as committed to employee
diversity as we are to our diverse
array of products and services.
Mycological Services
Artist Marie F. Heerkens, an "artist
who loves mushrooms and all there
is to know about them." would like
to supply drawings for a
professional mycologist in need of
them. She may be reached at <
[email protected] > or 7763 Main
St. Fishers, Victor, NY 14564.
Mycological Classijeds continued on
page 68
The Mycologist's Bookshelf
Requests to review books continue
to increase since this column was
first introduced in the fall of 1997.
I would like to express my
appreciation to those individuals
that have contributed book reviews.
To those in the society who have not
had an opportunity to review a book
for Mycologia, now is a good time
to become involved. Thanksfor
your help.
-- John ZaR, Book Review Editor
Books received fiom December
1997 through February 1998:
1. Anatomie der Hymenomyceten.
[Anatomy of the Hymenomycetes],
1997, H. Cldmenpn. In German
with English summary and figure
captions. Cost: 80 Swiss Frances (65-70 US$). Send orderslinquiries
to F. Fliick-Wirth, Internationale
Buchhandlung, CH-9053 Teufen,
Switzerland. Under Review
.2. Tropical Mycology, 1997, K. K.
Janardhanan, C. Rajendran, N.
Natarajan, and D. L. Hawksworth
(eds.), Science Publishers, Inc., P.
0. Box, 699, Enfield, NH 03748,
USA. No price quoted. Review
Needed.
3. Larger Fungi of South
Australia, 1997, C. A. Grgurinovic.
Send orderslinquires to: The Chief
Botanist, State Herbarium of South
Australia, North Terrace, Adelaide,
South Australia, 5000. Cost:
$95.00 A & US plus $10.00 postage
for Australia, and $25 A & US for
overseas. E-mail inquires:
[email protected]
Review Needed.
4. British Lichen Society, CD No. 1.
Identification of Parmelia Ach.
British Lichen Society, Penmore,
Perranuthnoe, Penzance, Cornwall,
TR20 9NF, UK. Cost: L12 for
single users, L 24 for multiple users
at one site. E-mail inquires:
[email protected] Review
Needed.
5. Biology of the Fungi, 1995,
J.G.Vaidya. Publisher Satyajeet
Prakashan, B-7 Atharvaved, S. No.
29 18, Kothrud, Pune-4 11029 India.
Cost: $100 US. Review Needed.
Mycological Classijieds, continued
Courses
A two day workshop, "Medically
Important Mycotoxigenic Fungi",
is to be held May 14-15 prior to the
1998 annual meetings of the
Medical Mycological Society of the
Americas and the American Society
for Microbiology in Atlanta, the
ninth year that a special topics
medical mycology workshop has
been co-sponsored by the Texas
Department of Health and the
National Laboratory Training
Network. This year's program
features two outstanding teachers
and successfbl mycological authors:
Dr. John Pitt, from CSIRO Food
Science in Australia and world
authority on foodborne fungi
including Penicillium, and Dr.
Richard Summerbell, widely
acclaimed medical mycologist from
the Ontario Ministry of Health in
Toronto. Both experts will share
extensive information on the
identification and properties of
medically important fungi that may
produce mycotoxins (e. g.
Aspergillus, Penicillium, other
Eurotialean fungi, selected
dernatiaceous fungi, Fusarium,
Trichoderma and other
Hypocrealean fungi). Media for
detecting toxigenic species, tests for
mycotoxin production and the
significance of mycotoxins in
disease will be discussed. This is a
rare opportunity to hear these
mycologists and get hands-on
microscopical experience under
their direction.
To obtain registration forms,
please send your e-mail address,
conventional mail address and FAX
number to me (see below).
Enrollment fee $300 ($250 before
April 10th. Confirmations and
directions to the Georgia State
Health Department Laboratory will
be sent upon receipt of registration.
Early registration is advised.
Further information can be obtained
from James L. Harris, Ph.D.
(Training Coordinator, Bureau of
Laboratories) -- phone 5 12-4587566, FAX 5 12-458-7294, Email:
[email protected]
A Mycology Workshop consisting of
lectures and laboratory on Clinical
and Environmental Molds is being
presented at the University of
Alberta by Lynne Sigler, on Thursday June 25, 1998, immediately
following the Edmonton CSMLS
National Congress.
Learning objectives:
-identi@ common & uncommon
clinical and environmental
filamentous fungi e.g. members of
the genera Aspergillus, Fusariurn,
Bipolaris, Scedosporium, Paecilomyces, Phoma, Scopulariopsis,
Lecythophora, Epicoccum, yeastlike fbngi, zygomycetes, etc.
- gain expertise in recognizing
contaminants
- learn about some toxigenic
molds fkom indoor environments
e.g. Penicillium, Stachybohys
To receive a registration
brochure, phone or fax Anna
Strand, Devonian Botanic Garden,
Edmonton, @ PH: 1-403-987-3054;
FAX 1-403-987-4141. Direct
inquiries concerning course content
to Prof. Lynne Sigler, phone: 1-403987-481 1 or Email:
[email protected]
Software Available
Erast Parmasto has released the
new Version 1.1 of CORTBASE, a
nomenclatural taxabase of corticioid
fungi (Corticiaceae s.1. and related
families) for DOS PCs that provides
information on 7740 species names
(incl. 4186 basionyms). For details,
see Mycotaxon 6 1: 467-47 1, 1997.
This fkeeware is distributed for
handling1 postage cost, or in
exchange with mycological
publications. Fax +372 7 383 013;
<[email protected].
Publications Wanted
M. C. Juventino Garcia Alvarado
(Apartado Postal 333, Xalapa
9 1001, Veracruz, Mexico
<[email protected]>)is
teaching mycology and working on
mycorrhizae, edible mushrooms,
and fungal biosystematics in the
Genetics Forest Center of the
Universidad Verzcruzana. He
would welcome any reprints, books,
pictures or slides to build his
teaching and working library.
Publications Available
American Journal ofBotany.
Vol. 45 (1958) to Vol. 81 (1994)
Phytopathology
Vol. 54 (1964) to Vol. 67 (1977)
Vol. 76 (1989) to Vol. 84 (1994)
Vol. 85 (1995) NOS. 1-7
The above journals (unbound but in
good condition) are available to
anyone willing to pay the shipping
costs. Contact Roger Goos Dept. of
Biological Sciences, 10 Ranger
Road, U of Rhode Island, Kingston,
RI 02881-0816 (401)874-2630 or
<[email protected]>
Change of Address
Send all corrections of directory information, including e-mail addresses, directly to Allen Press
phone: 800-627-0629 (US and Canada)
Mycological Society of America
Attn. : Processing Department
913-843-1221
fax: 913-843-1274
PO Box 1897
Lawrence, KS 66044-8897
e-mail: [email protected]
Note: A copy of the directory is on the MSA Home Page (see Page 1). A form is included so members may submit directory corrections
Calendar of Events
1998 (April 25-26). Mid-Atlantic
States Mycology Conference,
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA.
Contact: Dr. Orson K. Miller Jr.
<russula@vtvm 1.cc.vt.edu>.
1998 (May 14-15). Workshop:
Medically Important
Mycotoxigenic Fungi. Atlanta, GA,
John Pitt and Richard Summerbell
will lead a workshop for food,
medical and environmental
mycologists prior to the annual
meetings of the Medical
Mycological Society of the
Americas and the American Society
for Microbiology. Contact: Dr.
James L. Harris, Training
Coordinator (Bureau of
Laboratories) phone 5 12-458-7566,
FAX 5 12-458-7294 e-mail:
[email protected]
X.US (See additional information
under Mycological Classifieds).
1998 (June 3-5). 11th Biennial
Workshop on the Smut Fungi.
Moscow, Idaho. The workshop will
be held at the University Inn in
Moscow, beginning on June 3 with
registration and evening reception.
June 4-5 oral and poster
presentations will include disease
management, detection methods,
genetics, and systematics of smut
fimgi. For registration information
materials contact: Lori Carris, Email:[email protected].
Department of Plant Pathology, PO
Box 646430, Washington SU,
Pullman, WA 99164-6430.
1998 (June 11-16). Mycological
Society of America. San Juan,
Puerto Rico. M. Berbee, Program
Chair.
1998 (July). International
Congress of Mycorrhizae.
Uppsala, Sweden. See
<http://www.slu.se/icom2/
icom2.html>.
1998 (July 1-3). ADEBIO
Symposium Monascus culture
and applications, University of
Toulouse, France. The symposium
will cover food, cosmetics and
-
toxicological aspects of Monascus.
For further contact: Philippe Blanc,
Genie Biochimique et Alimentaire,
INSA, Complexe Scientifique de
Rangueil, F-3 1077 Toulouse Cedex.
Fax. 33 561 55 94 00.
<[email protected]>.
1998 (July 6-9). International
Asia-Pacific Mycological Conf. on
Biodiversity and Bietechnology,
Hua Hin, Thailand. Organized by:
National Center for Genetic
Engineering and Biotechnology
(BIOTEC), National Science and
Technology Development Agency
(NSTDA), Co-organized by The
Committee for Mycology in Asia
(MLA). The program features two
keynote lectures (Dr. Amy Y.
Rossman, US National Fungus
Collection, USA on "Fungal
Diversity in the Asia-Pacific
Tropics7'and Dr. Joe Baker, O.B.E.,
Office of the Environment,
Australia on "BioprospectingBiotechnology Bioactive
Compounds fiom Natural
Resources" and a number of
symposia and papers.
For additional information visit
the Web site: <http://www.biotec.or.
th/diary/mycology/mycology.htm>
or contact Ms. Parichat Kaewraksa,
Asia-Pacific Mycological
Conference on Biodiversity and
Biotechnology. National Center for
Genetic Engineering and
Biotechnology (BIOTEC), 53912
Gypsum Metropolitan Tower, 15th
Floor, Sri-Ayudkya Road, Bangkok
10400, haila and, phone: +66 2 642
5322 ext 116. Fax: +66 2 248 8305.
<[email protected] th>.
1998 (August 2-6). AIBS/
Ecological Society of America,
Baltimore, MD.
1998 (August 9-14). Microbial
Biosystems: New Frontiers. 8"
International Symposium on
Microbial Ecology, Halifax, Nova
Scotia, Canada. Contact: Dr. Colin
R Bell, Microbial Ecology
Laboratory, Department of Biology,
Acadia University, Wolfiille, Nova
71
Scotia, Canada BOP 1x0. Phone
902-542-2201 ext. 1328. Fax: 902542-3466. <[email protected]>.
Web Site:<http://dragon.acadiau.ca/
-cbelVisme8.html>.
1998 (9- 16 August). 7th
International Congress of Plant
Pathology, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Organized by British Society for
Plant Pathology. Deadline for hotel
accommodation, early registration
and visits and tours is 30 April. See
<http://www.bspp.org.uWicpp98>.
1998 (August 17-2 1). 8th
International Fusarium Workshop
will be held at IMI, Egham, Surrey,
UK during the week in between the
7th International Congress of Plant
Pathology, Edinburgh, and the 6th
International Mycological Congress,
Jerusalem. The International
Fusarium Workshop is held under
the auspices of the ISPP Fusarium
Committee and the convenor of the
meeting is David Brayford. Contact
him at: International Mycological
Institute, Bakeham Lane, Egham,
Surrey, TW20 9TY, UK; or via
<http://www.cabi.org/institut/imi/im
i.htm>; or (preferably) by email at:
<[email protected]>.
1998 (August 18-20). African
Mycological Conference, RMC4,
organized by AMA. (Abstracts
deadline past.) Papers for
presentation at RMC4 should reach
the organizing committee by 1 May
1998. For M h e r information
contact: The Organizing Committee
RMC4, c/o Department of Botany,
P. 0 . Box 30197, University of
Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya, Phone:
+254-2-4420 14 ext. 247012456,
Fax: +254-2-44 1661. Submitted:
Prof. Dirk Wessels, The General
Secretary, Afiican Mycological
Association, Department of Botany,
University of the North, Private Bag
X1106,0727, Sovenga, South
Africa.
Fairmont, W V 26554.
<[email protected]>.
Calendar of Events, continued
1998 (August 23-28). Sixth
International Mycological
Congress, Jerusalem, Israel.
1999 (August 1-7). The
International Botanical Congress
will be held in St. Louis, MO.
1999 (January 2 1-26). AAAS,
Anaheim, CA.
1999 (July 26-30). The Third
International Congress on the
Systematics and Ecology of Myxomycetes will be held in Beltsville,
Maryland. Contact: Lafayette
Frederick, Biology Dept., Howard
University, Washington, DC 20059
or Steve Stephenson, Dept. of
Biology, Fairmont State College,
1999.(August 16-20) 9th Int.
IUMS Mycology, International
Bact. & Applied Microbiol.
Congr. ,Sydney, Australia
1999. Amer. Phytopath.
Soc./Canad. Phytopath. Soc.,
Montreal, Quebec.
1999. III Congreso de la
Asociacion Latinoamericana de
Micologia. Caracas, Venezuela.
2002 August. International
Mycological Congress (IMC 7),
University of Oslo, Norway. In addition to lectures, symposia and poster
sessions, there will be a large mushroom exhibition arranged by the
Norwegian mycological
organization, and exhibitions of
stamps with fungi and mycological
books. Pre- and post-congress
excursions will be arranged as well
as local excursions during the
congress. Leif Ryvarden welcomes
ideas and suggestions. Botany Dept.
Biological Institute, Box 1045,
Blindern, N-03 16 Norway. Phone:
47-22854623. Fax: 47-22856717.
<[email protected]>.
Mycological Society of America -- Gift Membership Form
Sponsoring a gift membership in MSA offers tangible support both for the recipient of the membership as well as for
mycology in general. Providing both Mycologia and Inoculum, a gift membership is an excellent way to jkrther the efforts of
our mycological colleagues, especially those who cannot afford an MSA membership. In addition to a feeling of great
satisfaction, you also will receive a convenient reminderfor renewal of the gift membership the following year.
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SUSTAINING MEMBERS
OF THE MYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA
MSA is extremely grateful for the continuing support of its Sustaining Members.
Please patronize them and, whenever possible, let their representatives know of our appreciation.
American Cyanamid Company
d o Dr.Hilisa Esteban
Agricultural Research Division
P . 0 . h ~400
Princeton,NJ 08543-0400
Amgen Incorporated
Dr. Daniel Vapnek, Amgen Center
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1789
Biophannaceutical research and development
Amycel - Spawn Mate
P.O. Box 189
Watsonville, CA 95077-01 89
Producers of quality Agaricus and specialty
mushroom spawn, compost nutrient
supplements and other technical services for
commercial mushroom production.
Carolina Biological Supply Company
2700 York Road,
Burlington, NC 272 15
Serving science education since 1927.
Lane Science Equipment Co.
225 West 34th Street, Suite 1412,
New York, NY 10122-1496
Complete line of mushroom storage cabinets,
especially herbarium cabinets, airtight for
permanent protection.
Merck Research Laboratories
Merck & Co., Inc.,
Rahway, NJ 07065-0900
Myco Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Suite 2200
One Kendall Square
Cambridge, MA 02 139
Pharmaceutical development h m a
comprehensive base of mycology, fungal
genetics, and chemistry.
Mycosearch, Iuc.
Five Oaks Office Park, Suite 6,
4905 Pine Cone Drive,
Durham, NC 27707
Dowelanco
Attn: Dr. G.M. Kemmitt
306 H1
9330 Zionsville Rd.
Indianapolis,
. . IN 46268
Mycotaxon, Ltd.
PO Box 264, Ithaca, NY 14851
DuPont Company
Science and Engineering Laboratories
Life Sciences Division, E40212231,
Wilmington, DE 19880-0402
Pfizer, Inc.
Central Research Div., Eastern Point Rd.
Groton, CT 06340
field & forest products, inc.
N3296 Kozuzek Road,
Peshtigo, WI 541 57
Producers of specialty mushroom spawn.
Fungi Perfecti
PO Box 7634, Olympia, WA 98507
phone 206-426-9292, fax 206-426-9377
Innovators in the domestication of wild edible
fungi. Paul Stamets, President.
Janssen Pharmaceutica
P. 0. Box 200,
Titusville, NJ 08560-0200
Publishers of Mycotaxon, an international
journal of the taxonomy and nomenclature of
fungi and lichens.
Fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals by means
of microorganisms.
Phillips Mushroom Farms
PO Box 190
Kennett Square, PA 19348 USA
Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.
Attn: Dr. James A. Beny
Plant Breeding Division
PO Box 1004
Johnson, Iowa 50131-1004
World leader in genetic research for
agriculture.
Rohm and Haas Co.
Research Laboratories, Dr. Willie Wilson
727 Norristown Road,
Spring House, PA 19477
Novartis Pharma Inc.
c/o Dr.M.M.Drefiss
Research CTAILFU
S-506.4.11
CH-4002 Base1
Switzerland
Novartis Seeds,Inc.
Dr.David Kendra
3 17 330th Street
Stanton,MN 55018-4308
Producers and distributors of agricultural
seed.
Schering-Plough Research Institute
2015 Galloping Hill Road,
Kenilworth, NJ 07033-0539
Pharmaceutical research and development.
Sylvan Spawn Laboratory, Inc.
Attn: R. W. Kerrigan
Sylvan Research, Bldg. 2
West Hills Industrial Park
Kittanning, PA 16201
Specialists in the largescale production of
pure fungal inocula for the biotechnology and
commercial mushroom industries.
Triarch Incorporated
Ripon, WI 54971
Quality prepared microscope slides,
catalog-listed, or custom-prepared to your
specifications.
Uniroyal Chemical Company, Inc.
70 Amity Road,
Bethany, CT 06525
Producers of crop protection/production
chemicals; fungicides, insecticides, miticides,
herbicides, plant growth regulants, and foliar
nutrients.
Upjohn Company
d o Joyce Cialdella 7295-25-228
Chemical & Biological Screening
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Warner-Lambert Company
Pharmaceutical Research Division,
2800 Plymouth Road,
Ann Arbor, MI 481 06-1 047
Specialty monomers, industrial biocides, and
agricultural chemicals.
You are encouraged to inform the Sustaining Membership Committee of firms or foundations that might be approached about Sustaining
Membership in the MSA. Sustaining members have all the rights and privileges of individual members in the MSA and are listed as a
Sustaining Members in all issues of Mycologia and Inoculurn.
An Invitation to Join MSA
THE MYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA
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AREAS OF INTEREST: [Mark most appropriate area(s)]
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e-mail: [email protected]