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ABSTRACT: Pilobolus, a widely distributed coprophilous fungus, grows on herbivore dung. Species of Pilobolus traditionally are described with imprecise morphological characteristics potentially leading to misidentification. In this study we used PCR analysis of taxonomically informative sequences to provide more consistent species identification from isolates obtained in Yellowstone National Park. We collected Pilobolus park-wide from six taxa of herbivores over 9 y. Multiple transfers of single sporangium isolates provided pure cultures from which DNA was extracted. Sequence analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of DNA that code for rRNA genes were used to distinguish among similar species. We describe several species of Pilobolus associated with herbivores in various habitats, including two species not previously reported, P. heterosporus and P. sphaerosporus. Our results show that phylogenetic species identification of Pilobolus based on sequence analysis of pure culture isolates provides a more reliable means of identifying species than traditional methods.
Mycologia 06/2011; 103(6):1208-15. · 2.03 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The three genera traditionally classified as Pilobolaceae have been identified on the basis of morphological characteristics. In the absence of distinctive morphological differences phylogenetic techniques have proven to be superior for developing phylogenies. Molecular techniques have been used primarily for studies of higher fungi; there are few investigations of the Zygomycota using genetic sequences for classification. DNA sequences coding for three regions of rRNA were used to investigate phylogenetic relationships of the three genera traditionally considered within the Pilobolaceae. Evidence indicates that Pilaira should be removed from Pilobolaceae and the family redescribed. Sporangiospore size is the morphological characteristic that most closely correlates with rDNA clades of phylogenetic trees. This study demonstrates that traditional morphological characteristics alone are not adequate to differentiate species of Pilobolus.
Mycologia 08/2010; 103(1):36-44. · 2.03 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Collecting dung as a source of fungi is not a task that invites much enthusiasm. If given a choice, we do not think anyone would pick collecting dung as a pastime. However, there are many, very interesting fungi that grow upon and cause the decomposition of dung. These fungi can be used as research tools and as models for classroom use. Quick and easy methods for collecting fungi growing on dung can make the task, while not totally inviting, at least less of a chore. We will present a quick, easy, and inexpensive means of (1) collecting the samples and (2) maintenance of samples in culture.
Micología Aplicada Internacional. 01/2001;
