Evolution of truffles, morels, and relatives (Pezizales

What are Pezizales?

Fungi in the Pezizales belong to the earliest diverging lineage within the Pezizomycotina (Ascomycota) and they are phylogenetically and morphologically diverse. They are estimated to have diverged from other Fungi 590–467 million years ago and are broadly distributed geographically. Ecologically, species of Pezizales obtain their nutrition by occupying a full spectrum of niches that includes mycorrhizal symbiosis, plant parasitism, bacterial farming, or saprotrophy (degrading dead organic matter) on leaf litter, wood or dung. However, there is much Pezizalean diversity left to uncover, including many cryptic species, and major questions remain regarding their higher-level relationships and ecology.

Our Goal

The main goal of this project is to generate a robust genome-scale phylogenomic framework of fungi in the Pezizales for hypothesis testing, while training the next generation of systematists in state-of-the-art and classic techniques in fungal systematics and biodiversity inquiry. A resolved phylogeny will enable us to address questions regarding the genetic basis underlying (1) morphological transitions from epigeous (aboveground) cup fungi to the hypogeous (belowground) truffle habit, (Fig 1) and (2) ecological transitions between saprotrophism, ectomycorrhizal mutualism, parasitism and bacterial farming. Related to this goal, are the three project aims to the right.

Aims

Aim 1. Leverage broad sampling efforts and citizen science to reconstruct a genome-based phylogeny of the Pezizales

Aim 2. Generate DNA barcodes from type specimens and other authentic materials to document diversity and stabilize taxonomy

Aim 3. Improve understanding of the microbiome’s contribution to Pezizales trophic ecology

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