Inter- and Intra-Continental Genetic Variation in the Generalist Conifer Wood Saprobic Fungus Phlebiopsis gigantea

Phlebiopsis gigantea (Fr.) Jülich is a well-known generalist conifer wood saprobe and biocontrol fungus used in several world countries to prevent stump infection by tree pathogenic Heterobasidion fungal species. Previous studies have reported the presence of regional continental genetic differentiation host-specific fungi, but such for saprobes as P. has not been often studied or demonstrated. Additionally, little information exists on distribution this western North America. The main purposes study were: (I) assess California, (II) explore variability at intra inter-continental levels (III) analyze phylogeographic relationships between American European populations. Seven loci (nrITS, ML5–ML6, ATP6, RPB1, RPB2, GPD TEF1-α) from 26 isolates coniferous forests diverse geographic different hosts were analyzed together with 45 GenBank sequences. One hundred seventy-four new sequences generated using either universal specific primers designed study. mitochondrial ML5–ML6 DNA ATP6 regions highly conserved did show differences any isolates. Conversely, ITS, TEF1-α variable among samples. Maximum likelihood analysis strongly supported presences two subgroups within species without congruence partition, suggesting retained ancestral polymorphisms. RPB1 RPB2 separated ones, while locus samples eastern ones. This reports California first time DNA-based confirmation identifies older genetically distinct subspecific groups, well three differentiated lineages species: one Europe, America latter presumably including individuals rest identified here indicates that should be (or vice versa), and, likewise, commercially available forests. lack host specificity was documented field survey further reinforces need only use local fungus, given exotic genotypes broad microbe may easily spread permanently alter microbial biodiversity native forest ecosystems.