Draft Genome Sequence Resource for Blumeriella jaapii, the Cherry Leaf Spot Pathogen
Jingyu Peng1, J Alejandro Rojas2,3, Hyunkyu Sang4
1Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, U.S.A.
Phytopathology
|April 28, 2020
Summary
Scientists sequenced the genome of Blumeriella jaapii, the fungus causing cherry leaf spot (CLS). This research provides a valuable resource for understanding and managing this important plant disease in tart cherries.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Mycology
- Genomics
Background:
- Cherry leaf spot (CLS), caused by Blumeriella jaapii, is a major disease affecting tart cherries in the Midwestern US.
- Premature defoliation from CLS increases tree susceptibility to winter injury and mortality.
- Current CLS management relies on fungicides from three main classes: quinone outside inhibitors, sterol demethylation inhibitors, and succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the first high-quality genome assembly of Blumeriella jaapii.
- To provide a genomic resource for investigating fungicide resistance mechanisms in B. jaapii.
- To expand the genomic knowledge of phytopathogenic fungi within the Dermateaceae family.
Main Methods:
- Hybrid genome assembly using PacBio long reads and Illumina short reads.
- Sequencing and assembly of the Blumeriella jaapii genome.
Main Results:
- A draft genome of Blumeriella jaapii was successfully assembled.
- The genome size is 47.4 Mb, comprising 95 contigs with an N50 value of 1.5 Mb.
- This represents the most complete genome sequence for the Dermateaceae family to date.
Conclusions:
- The high-quality B. jaapii genome is a crucial resource for fungicide resistance studies.
- This genomic data enhances understanding of phytopathogenic fungi in the Dermateaceae family.
- Facilitates future research into managing cherry leaf spot disease.
Keywords:
Mycology
