Researchers identify new species of fungi

Context

Recently, researchers from Kerala have identified two new species of fungi from the genus Ganoderma that are associated with coconut stem rot. 

About the new fungi species

• Researchers have genotyped the two fungi species, named Ganoderma keralense and G. pseudoapplanatum and identified genetic biomarkers. 
• This discovery was based on morphological characters, DNA sequences of the Kerala collections and phylogenetic analyses by comparing DNA of all Ganoderma species known worldwide. 
• The DNA barcodes have been made publicly available in DNA sequence repositories so that future studies can use them for the early detection of the pathogen.
• Species-specific disease prevention strategies can now be developed.

About Basal stem rot 

• The butt rot or basal stem rot of coconut is known by several names in different parts of India: Ganoderma wilt (Andhra Pradesh), Anaberoga (Karnataka) and Thanjavur wilt (Tamil Nadu), to mention a few.
• The infection begins at the roots, but symptoms include discolouration and rotting of stem and leaves.
• In the later stages, flowering and nut set decreases and finally the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) dies.
• A reddish-brown oozing is seen. This oozing has been reported only in India.
• Once infected, recovery of the plants is not likely.
• Not surprising then, that this causes a huge loss: By some estimates made in 2017, in India, around 12 million people are said to depend on coconut farming.