The aim of this project is to describe the species of fungi identified in NZ in association with Facial Eczema.
Background
Pseudopithomyces chartarum (formerly known as Pithomyces chartarum) is currently believed to be the sole causal agent of facial eczema (FE) in ruminants.
Preliminary analyses of 84 suspected Pse. chartarum isolates from the environment have been carried out by AgResearch and Manaaki Whenua. This analysis indicates that the New Zealand isolates of Pse. chartarum separate into three major groups. This suggests that Pse. chartarum group may contain more than one species. This project will build on the preliminary work to provide the first details of the Pse. chartarum groups in New Zealand.
Farmers provided grass samples from around NZ to grow additional fungal isolates directly linked to farming environments. These fungal isolates will be analysed to compare genetic relatedness of isolates from facial eczema affected farms with environmental isolates and those from the same genus or closely related species. Representative isolates from each group will have their genetic code further analysed in depth, their form and structure described, and any new species will be named.
Genetic analyses will help provide insights into potential differences between species and may provide clues into their lifestyles, such as saprophytic (living on dead matter) vs biotrophic (living on another living organism) potential. This project will provide fundamental knowledge needed to understand how best to assist New Zealand farmers in managing the risk of FE.
Genetic analyses will help provide insights into potential differences between species and may provide clues into their lifestyles, such as saprophytic (living on dead matter) vs biotrophic (living within another living organism such as a plant) potential. This project will provide fundamental knowledge needed to understand how best to assist New Zealand farmers in managing the risk of FE.
Benefit to farmers/industry
Knowing that there are several Pseudopithomyces species in pasture enables accurate and impactful management tools and solutions for FE.
Timeline and investment
This project is a 12-month pilot study due for completion February 2023.
B+LNZ investment into this project is $186,500.
Partners
This project is led by AgResearch and Manaaki Whenua, Landcare Research and funded by B+LNZ
Lead Scientists: Christine Voisey and Bevan Weir.
B+LNZ point of contact: Cara Brosnahan.