Fungi Associated with the Decomposition of the Black Rush, Juncus Roemerianus, in South Florida

SUMMARY

A total of 123 fungal taxa was observed on Juncus roemerianus leaves. Thirty-four taxa were at a frequency of occurrence of 1% or more; of these, five taxa (Fusarium spp., Cladosporium cladosporioides, Drechslera hawaiiensis, Alternaria alternata and Geniculosporium sp.) were in excess of 25%. The observed community structure was affected by the condition of the leaf (living, senescent or decomposing leaves), position on the leaf (tip, middle or base of the leaf), season of the year (wet vs. dry season) and culture technique. Of less significance was station location within the study site. Comparisons with other studies of Juncus and red-mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) litter indicated a distinct fungal community structure associated with Juncus in subtropical estuarine environments.