Abstract Detail

Systematics Section

Kaonongbua, Wittaya [1], Bever, James [2].

Xerospora xerophila gen. et sp. nov., a new arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus from a semi-arid region of North America.

While investigating the biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the US grasslands, we encountered a previously undescribed species of AM fungi in desert grassland from New Mexico. Both morphological and molecular data strongly support the hypothesis that this AM fungus is an undescribed species and a member of a distinct genus within the family Diversisporaceae (Glomeromycota). Therefore, we erect a new genus, Xerospora gen. nov., to accommodate the new species, Xerospora xerophila sp. nov. Spores of X. xerophila are globose, subglobose or occasionally oblong; 231.2-206.4 µm in average dimensions; dark yellow, pale brown, brown or dark reddish brown and frequently with adhering debris and soil particles. Each spore comprises of a single spore wall with 2 layers. The composite thickness of the spore wall is approximately 25 µm. The outer layer (L1) is yellow, pale brown or brown, 5-20 µm thick with the mean of 11.9 µm and laminated. Some of the outer-most sub-layers of this may degrade over time and start attracting soil particles. The inner layer (L2) is hyaline, 5-20 µm thick with the mean of 12.4 µm and both laminated and semi-flexible. The inner-most sub-layers of this may be mistaken for an additional spore walllayer. To date, X. xerophila has only been reported from the type locality.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Indiana University, Biology, 1001 E. 3rd St., Jordan Hall 142, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
2 - Indiana University, Department Of Biology, Jordan Hall, 1001 East Third Street, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA

Keywords:
Diversispora
Glomeromycete
molecular phylogeny
mycorrhiza
Taxonomy.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Khorassan Ballroom/Chase Park Plaza
Date: Monday, July 11th, 2011
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PSY004
Abstract ID:525