Genome sequencing a nematophagous fungus

The fungus is a biocontrol agent of economically important plant parasitic nematodes (e.g. root knot nematodes), which cause extensive damage to crops worldwide. There is currently no means to control these plant disease agents. This problem is of particular importance because the use of the fumigant methyl bromide (an ozone depleting and greenhouse effect agent) has been forbidden. Additionally, other nematocides (carbamates and organophosphorates) pose significant health and environmental hazards. Sequencing of the P. chlamydosporia genome will help understand the pathogenicity and the environmental adaptation of the fungus and help to optimise its use in sustainable agriculture. Comparison with other recently sequenced pathogens will help to understand the evolution of mechanisms of pathogenicity in these fungal pathogens of biotechnological interest.