Une bourse de six BENEFIT team researcher took part in this study to explore why only about 370 species of Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the Glomeromycotina subphylum have been formally identified despite their long evolutionary history. This is a surprisingly small number compared with the nearly 82,000 species described in the Pezizomycotina subphylum. Here, the researchers point to genome sequencing as a way to reveal the full diversity of AM fungi.
Keywords
- Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM)
- Fungi
- Glomeromycotina
- Species identification
Research Highlights
- Only about 370 species of Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are catalogued, despite coevolving with plants for hundreds of millions of years
- Use of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing can misidentify AM fungal species, failing to capture their genomic diversity and evolutionary history
- Genome sequencing of AM fungi reveals genetic differences and gene flow, enabling accurate species identification beyond rRNA limitations
Editorial Reflections
This study clearly reflects the power of genomics. Specifically, how genome‑based sequencing of AM fungi can reveal genetic characteristics that rRNA sequencing often misses. It also shows how a genome-based approach can reshape our understanding of biodiversity.
Le BENEFIT project aims to develop microbial bio-inoculants to improve crop growth in Canadian agriculture and help reduce reliance on traditional fertilizers. The researchers are developing microbial strains to enhance crop productivity in cereals, brassicas, and legumes in Canadian soils. A contributing author from the team is:
- Nicolas Corradi – Professor & Research Chair, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa
Curious about Team BENEFIT’s ongoing work? Visit queensu.ca/microbes-for-agriculture to learn more.
Food for Thought: Read the full article here. This study highlights a new way to uncover the full diversity of a fungal species. In your view, what are the benefits of identifying the full diversity of a species, and why does it matter?
References
Corradi, N., Antunes, P. M., & Magurno, F. (2025). A call for reform: implementing genome‑based approaches for species classification in Glomeromycotina. New Phytologist, 247(1), 50–54. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.70148
