Multi-locus phylogeny and taxonomy of Exserohilum

Abstract

Exserohilum includes a number of plant pathogenic, saprobic and clinically relevant fungi. Some of these species are of great importance in human activities, but the genus has never been revised in a phylogenetic framework. In this study, we revise Exserohilum based on available ex-type cultures from worldwide collections, observation of the holotypes and/or protologues, and additional isolates from diverse substrates and geographical origins. Based on nine nuclear loci, i.e., ITS, LSU, act, tub2, cam, gapdh, his, tef1 and rpb2, as well as phenotypic data, the genus and species boundaries are assessed for Exserohilum. Three species, i.e., E. novae-zelandiae, E. paspali and E. sorghicola, are excluded from the genus and reallocated in Sporidesmiella and Curvularia, respectively, whereas E. heteropogonicola and E. inaequale are confirmed as members of Curvularia. Exserohilum rostratum is revealed as conspecific with species previously described in Exserohilum such as E. antillanum, E. gedarefense, E. leptochloae, E. longirostratum, E. macginnisii and E. prolatum. Additionally, E. curvatum is revealed as synonym of E. holmii, and E. fusiforme of E. oryzicola. A total of 11 Exserohilum phylogenetic species are described, illustrated and discussed, including one novel taxon, E. corniculatum. The placements of 15 other doubtful species are discussed, and E. elongatum is validated.