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Ultrastructural characteristics and variability of vegetative reproduction in Fellomyces penicillatus

Marie Kopecká1, Wladyslav Golubev, Vladimíra Ramíková

  • 1Department of Biology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic. mkopecka@med.muni.cz

Journal of Basic Microbiology
|December 7, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Two yeast strains, VKM Y-2977 and VKM Y-2978, were identified as Fellomyces penicillatus based on physiological, mycocin sensitivity, and ultrastructural analyses. Despite morphological differences in conidiophore length, both strains share key characteristics of this yeast species.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Yeast Taxonomy
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • The yeast isolate Pa-202 yielded two strains, VKM Y-2977 and VKM Y-2978, requiring detailed characterization.
  • Previous classifications may not fully account for morphological variations within species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To taxonomically classify yeast strains VKM Y-2977 and VKM Y-2978.
  • To investigate and compare the physiological properties, mycocin sensitivities, and ultrastructural features of these two yeast strains.

Main Methods:

  • Light, phase-contrast, fluorescence, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy were employed.
  • Physiological properties and mycocin sensitivity patterns were assessed.
  • Ultrastructural analysis focused on conidiophores, cell necks, actin cytoskeleton, microtubules, and nuclei.

Main Results:

  • Strain VKM Y-2977 exhibited long stalk-like conidiophores, while VKM Y-2978 showed shorter ones, resembling typical budding yeast.
  • Ultrastructural examination revealed similarities in actin cytoskeleton, microtubules, and nuclei between strains, though obscured by a capsule.
  • Despite variations in conidiophore and neck length, both strains shared fundamental characteristics.

Conclusions:

  • Both yeast strains VKM Y-2977 and VKM Y-2978 are classified as Fellomyces penicillatus.
  • Morphological variations, specifically in the length of stalk-like conidiophores and necks, do not preclude classification within the same species.

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