Phylogenetic tree

Fungus

Evolutionary biology

Biology

Phylogenetics

Gene

Species complex

Fusarium oxysporum

Botany

Genetics

Taxonomy (biology)

Taxon

Persoonia - Molecular Phylogeny and Evolution of Fungi

Fusarium oxysporum is the most economically important and commonly encountered species of Fusarium. This soil-borne fungus is known to harbour both pathogenic (plant, animal and human) and non-pathogenic strains. However, in its current concept F. oxysporum is a species complex consisting of numerous cryptic species. Identification and naming these cryptic species is complicated by multiple subspecific classification systems and the lack of living ex-type material to serve as basic reference point for phylogenetic inference. Therefore, to advance and stabilise the taxonomic position of F. oxysporum as a species and allow naming of the multiple cryptic species recognised in this species complex, an epitype is designated for F. oxysporum. Using multi-locus phylogenetic inference and subtle morphological differences with the newly established epitype of F. oxysporum as reference point, 15 cryptic taxa are resolved in this study and described as species.

Epitypification of <i> Fusarium oxysporum</i> – clearing the taxonomic chaos

Epitypification of Fusarium oxysporum – clearing the taxonomic chaos