Taxonomy and evolution history of two new litter-decomposing Ciliochorella (Amphisphaeriales, Sporocadaceae)

The genus Ciliochorella is a group of pestalotioid fungi, which typically occurs in subtropical and tropical areas. Species from the Ciliochorella genus play important roles in the decomposition of litter. In this study, we introduce two new species (Ciliochorella chinensis sp. nov. and C. savannica sp. nov.) that were found on leaf litter collected from savanna-like vegetation in hot dry valleys of southwestern China. Phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS and tub2 sequence datasets indicated that C. chinensis and C. savannica respectively form a distinct clade within the Ciliochorella genus. The comparison of the morphological characteristics indicated that the two new species are well differentiated within this genus species. Analysis of the evolutionary history suggests that Ciliochorella originated from the Eurasian continent during the Paleogene (38 Mya). Further, we find that both new species can produce cellulase and laccase, playing a decomposer role.

Automated summary

The genus Ciliochorella is a group of parasitic fungi that are mainly found in subtropical and tropical regions, playing important roles in litter decomposition. This study introduces two new species (Ciliochorella chinensis sp. nov. and C. savannica sp. nov.) discovered in leaf litter collected from savanna-like vegetation in southwestern China. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that these new species form distinct branches within the Ciliochorella genus. Morphological comparisons also highlight the differentiation of these new species within the genus. Furthermore, both new species are capable of cellulose degradation and laccase production.