Genetic Diversity of Fusarium Graminearum in Europe and Asia

The biodiversity and phylogeny of Fusarium graminearum isolates originating from different geographical areas was analyzed using isozyme variation, β-tubulin and IGS sequences. Geographically distinct groups of isolates originating from different areas of the Russian Federation, China, Germany and Finland were studied. The complex enzymes (α- and β-esterases, aspartate aminotransferase and superoxide dismutase) and the IGS sequences demonstrated a high level of genetic diversity in F. graminearum. Diversity in the Asian population was higher than in the European one. There was a correlation between genetic clusters of the IGS sequences and geographical origin in F. graminearum. Knowledge of biodiversity and identification of some phylogenetic lineages in F. graminearum will be useful in defining the risk of pathogen evolution as well as benefiting disease management strategies.