A Surprising Discovery in Thai Flowers
While most people picture blossoms as insect magnets, a recent study reveals that they also host a secret world of microorganisms. Researchers from Chiang Mai University and Kasetsart University have identified sixteen previously unknown fungal species living inside the petals, stamens, pollen and nectar glands of flowers collected in northern Thailand. All of the newcomers belong to the dark‑pigmented, yeast‑like genus Aureobasidium, a group already known from water, skin, plants and even icy habitats.
The Expedition and Sample Collection
In the spring of 2024 the team ventured into the provinces of Chiang Mai and Phayao, gathering blossoms from thirty‑one different plant species. Their haul included popular ornamentals such as bougainvillea and the maiden’s palm, alongside a variety of wild flora. From each flower they isolated fungal material, eventually cultivating fifty‑four distinct Aureobasidium strains in the laboratory.
From Known to Novel
Out of the fifty‑four isolates, twelve matched five species already described in scientific literature, four of which had never before been recorded in Thailand. The remaining forty‑two isolates proved to be entirely new to science, representing sixteen distinct species that had never been documented.
Why This Genus Matters
The decision to focus on Aureobasidium was not random. Professor Nakarin Suwannarach explains that this genus repeatedly appeared in earlier flower surveys, and the visual diversity of its colonies hinted at hidden taxonomic richness. However, distinguishing one species from another proved challenging because many strains look alike under a microscope, and standard DNA barcoding sometimes fails to provide clear separation.
Combining Morphology, Physiology, and Genetics
To overcome these hurdles, the scientists employed a multi‑pronged approach. They first compared five conserved DNA regions across all isolates. Next, they examined colony morphology, temperature tolerance, and the ability to metabolize various nutrients. By integrating genetic fingerprints with observable growth traits, they could reliably separate closely related lineages and confirm the novelty of each strain.
Names That Tell a Story
Each of the sixteen new species received a name that reflects its origin or honors a contributor to Thai mycology. For instance, Aureobasidium bougainvilleae was isolated from bougainvillea blossoms, while A. catharanthi came from the maiden’s palm (Catharanthus roseus). Two species—A. saisamorniae and A. savitreeae—pay tribute to Thai fungal experts Saisamorn Lumyong and Savitree Limtong, respectively. Professor Suwannarach emphasized that naming is a way to embed a narrative about place, plant host, or the people who paved the way for discovery.
Potential Applications Beyond Academia
The significance of these findings extends beyond taxonomy. Certain Aureobasidium strains are known producers of valuable enzymes and pigments, which can be harnessed in biotechnology, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. The newly uncovered diversity may therefore hold untapped biochemical potential, prompting future investigations into industrial uses.
Overall, the study dramatically expands the catalog of known Aureobasidium species in Thailand and underscores how much of the microbial world remains concealed within everyday ecosystems such as flower beds.
Source: https://scientias.nl/zestien-nieuwe-schimmelsoorten-ontdekt-in-thaise-bloemen/#respond