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08:57
Using Phylogenetic Analysis to Investigate Eukaryotic Gene Origin
Published on: August 14, 2018
Molecular phylogeny and evolution of Monilinia (Sclerotiniaceae) based on coding and noncoding rDNA sequences
American Journal of Botany
|June 29, 2011
Summary
Phylogenetic analysis reveals Monilinia fungi are not monophyletic, with distinct lineages identified. Cospeciation with hosts occurred, but host jumps also shaped Monilinia evolution.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Molecular Systematics
Background:
- The fungal genus Monilinia comprises economically important plant pathogens.
- Understanding the evolutionary relationships within Monilinia is crucial for disease management and taxonomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phylogenetic relationships of Monilinia species and closely related genera.
- To test the monophyly of the genus Monilinia.
- To elucidate the evolutionary history and host associations of Monilinia.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) regions, including internal transcribed spacers (ITS), 5.8S, small subunit (SSU), and large subunit (LSU) genes.
- Phylogenetic analyses using maximum parsimony.
Main Results:
- The genus Monilinia was found to be non-monophyletic.
- A clear distinction was observed between the sections Junctoriae and Disjunctoriae.
- Four distinct evolutionary lineages were identified within the Disjunctoriae, associated with different host types (Crataegus, rosaceous stone fruits, ericaceous capsular fruits, ericaceous berries).
- Evidence suggests a combination of cospeciation and host jumps in the evolution of Monilinia-host interactions.
- Sclerotinia pirolae was confirmed as a member of the Disjunctoriae.
- Botrytis and Sclerotinia are the closest relatives to Junctoriae, while Ciborinia is closest to Disjunctoriae.
- Accelerated rRNA evolution was noted in Monilinia species infecting ericaceous berries.
Conclusions:
- The current classification of Monilinia requires revision due to its non-monophyletic status.
- Host-parasite co-evolutionary patterns, including host jumps, have significantly influenced Monilinia diversification.
- The study provides insights into the evolutionary history and systematic placement of Monilinia and related genera.
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