11th September 2025 (16 Topics)
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New Aspergillus Discoveries
Context:
Indian scientists at MACS–Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, have discovered two new species of Aspergillus (section Nigri) in the Western Ghats and reported two species for the first time from India.
New Species Identified
- Aspergillus dhakephalkarii and Aspergillus patriciawiltshireae were identified as novel species by an Indian team using advanced taxonomic methods.
- Additionally, aculeatinus and A. brunneoviolaceus were reported for the first time in India.
- This marks the first discovery of new Aspergillus section Nigri species by an Indian team.
Taxonomic and Genetic Approach
- The study followed the integrative or polyphasic taxonomic approach, considered the global gold standard.
- Identification used ITS and CaM genes, while BenA and RPB2 were employed for phylogenetic analysis.
- Maximum likelihood multi-gene phylogeny confirmed distinct lineages of the new species with high statistical support.
Ecological and Industrial Relevance
- Black aspergilli are crucial in citric acid production, food fermentation, enzyme technology, and agriculture.
- The Western Ghats, a UNESCO biodiversity hotspot, are underexplored for microbial diversity, highlighting the need for conservation and systematic research.
- The phosphate-solubilisation potential of these fungi indicates agricultural and ecological significance.
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