Ustilaginomycotina

A subphylum of fungi in the phylum Basidiomycota

Ustilaginomycotina is a subphylum of fungi within the phylum Basidiomycota. This group is primarily composed of smut fungi, which are known for their parasitic relationship with plants, particularly grasses. The subphylum includes several important plant pathogens that affect agricultural crops.

Taxonomy

Ustilaginomycotina was established as a subphylum in 2006 by Bauer and colleagues. It is one of the three subphyla of Basidiomycota, the others being Agaricomycotina and Pucciniomycotina. The subphylum is divided into three classes: Ustilaginomycetes, Exobasidiomycetes, and Malasseziomycetes.

Classes

• Ustilaginomycetes: This class includes the majority of the smut fungi, which are characterized by their production of teliospores. The most well-known member is Ustilago maydis, the causative agent of corn smut.
• Exobasidiomycetes: Members of this class are also plant pathogens, but they have a different life cycle and morphology compared to Ustilaginomycetes.
• Malasseziomycetes: This class includes fungi that are primarily associated with animals, particularly mammals, and are known for causing skin conditions.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Ustilaginomycotina fungi typically involves both asexual and sexual reproduction. In the case of Ustilago maydis, the fungus infects the host plant, Zea mays (corn), and induces the formation of galls. These galls contain the teliospores, which are the resting spores of the fungus. Upon germination, the teliospores undergo meiosis to produce basidiospores, which can infect new host plants.

Ecological and Economic Importance

Ustilaginomycotina fungi are significant both ecologically and economically. They play a role in the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. However, as plant pathogens, they can cause substantial damage to crops, leading to economic losses. The study of these fungi is important for developing strategies to control plant diseases and improve crop yields.

Related pages

• Basidiomycota
• Fungal plant pathogens
• Corn smut

References

• Bauer, R., Begerow, D., Sampaio, J.P., Weiss, M., & Oberwinkler, F. (2006). The classification of Basidiomycota. In: The Mycota VII Part A. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.
• Piepenbring, M. (2007). Life cycle of Ustilago maydis on corn, Ustilaginales Basidiomycota. [Image].

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  Life cycle of Ustilago maydis on corn, Ustilaginales Basidiomycota