Functional diversity in Dichomitus squalens monokaryons

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Forest Pathology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Dichomitus squalens is a white-rot fungus prevalent in northern temperate and boreal forests.
• It primarily colonizes softwood, playing a role in wood decomposition.
• Understanding its diversity is crucial for applications in bioremediation and biofuel production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the genetic and physiological diversity within Dichomitus squalens.
• To investigate variations in growth and lignocellulose-degrading enzyme profiles among different strains.
• To assess the extent of diversity within this fungal species.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and culturing of eight D. squalens monokaryons from a single dikaryon.
• Inclusion of an unrelated dikaryon and a newly formed dikaryon.
• Assessment of growth rates and lignocellulose-acting enzyme profiles for each strain.

Main Results:

• Significant variability in growth rates was observed among the D. squalens strains.
• Lignocellulose-acting enzyme profiles showed high diversity across the studied monokaryotic and dikaryotic isolates.
• The results indicate substantial physiological and genetic heterogeneity within the D. squalens species.

Conclusions:

• Dichomitus squalens possesses a high degree of genetic and physiological diversity.
• This variability impacts its growth and enzymatic capabilities.
• Further research into specific strains could unlock tailored applications in lignocellulose degradation.