Morphology-Based Characterization of Trichoderma Species

Abstract

The fungal kingdom is diverse, and it is estimated that there are 1.5 million species globally but only around 70,000 known species have been identified to date (Siddiquee 2014). Most of these species are classified as filamentous fungi. Several types of living organisms have been found from different substances that are utilized by humans for various applications. From these, an approximately 10% has been discovered and described until now. As morphology-based identification of fungi is still preliminary required for the given putative genus name. Hibbett et al. (2011) mentioned that still traditional morphology-based classification is authorized in the diverse classification of Fungi. The International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (Melbourne Code) requires morphological Latin or English diagnosis for valid new fungal taxon descriptions (Norvell 2011). Microscopic observations are still a simple, economic, and efficient way to assay of morphological characters, and classification. The observations of the beauty of fungi are still enjoyable for many mycologists; they are very much excited to identify the anonymous species under microscope. In the past 10 years, new fungal species are identified averages of 1196 per year (Hibbett et al. 2011). Among these new fungal species are identified only morphology characters without prior DNA sequencing or molecular data from 1999 to 2009 (Hibbett et al. 2011). Combinations of physiological characteristics and microscopic observations still have practical and scientifically value in examining of fungi. Microscopic observations are commonly applied in fungal research and commercial laboratories.