Naemacyclus culmigenus, a newly reported potential pathogen to Miscanthus sinensis, new to Japan

Since the summer of 2010, a discomycete with erumpent apothecia associated with a leaf blight of Miscanthus leaves, were often collected. The morphological characteristics of the fungus suggested it was a member of the Helotiales rather than the Rhytismatales and this was supported by a phylogenetic analysis. Based on a morphological comparison with the type specimen of Naemacyclus culmigenus, currently known from Poaceae (Andropogon and Panicum), it was identified as N. culmigenus, new to Japan. The molecular phylogenetic analysis showed that the generic delimitation of Naemacyclus and related species requires clarification, as does their higher classification within the Leotiomycetes.

► Detailed description of Naemacyclus culmigenus new to Japan is provided with photos and line drawings.
► Naemacyclus culmigenus was found to be a possible pathogen of Miscanthus sinensis recognized as a new host.
► Result of molecular phylogenetic analysis supported Leotiomycetes with erumpent ascoma including N. culmigenus as a group.