Penicillium parvulum and Penicillium georgiense, sp. nov., isolated from the conidial heads of Aspergillus species

Abstract

Two new Penicillium species were isolated from peanut-field soils in Georgia. The species were noted particularly because they sporulated on the conidial heads of Aspergillus species. Phenotypic descriptions were prepared with standard media. LSU-rDNA sequences were determined for the new species and compared to existing homologous sequences from Penicillium species with parsimony analysis. The monoverticillate species, P. parvulum, was related most closely to E. cinnamopurpureum, while the furcate species, P. georgiense, appeared in the tree near P. thiersii. Because P. parvulum was closely related to E. cinnamopurpureum additional loci were sequenced (beta-tubulin and calmodulin) for these and some other closely related species to establish the status of the species through genealogical concordance. Some proposed synonymies from prior studies were examined and resolved.

• genealogical concordance
• molecular systematics
• species recognition
• synonymies

We appreciate the help of Patricia Eckel, who prepared the Latin diagnoses. The mention of firm names or trade products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture over other firms or similar products not mentioned.