Variability of Carotenoid Biosynthesis in Meiotic Offspring of Fusarium Temperatum Strains

Fusarium temperatum is a new emerging species recognized as important and toxigenic pathogen of maize, prevalent in temperate region of northern hemisphere. The present study aimed to identify the variability of this species in terms of carotenoid biosynthesis under various light condition in relation to fungus mating type. Analysis of offspring subpopulation of 80 isolates obtained by crossing parental Fusarium temperatum strains indicated that light wavelength and fungal genotype significantly affected pigment yield. The highest levels of carotenoids were observed after incubation of isolates under blue light. Occurrence of the more extreme fungus phenotypes than either parent was stated in 20% to 42 % isolates depending on light condition. It means that transgressive segregation can significantly change fungus population from generation to generation and drive the species evolution. No phenotypic differences in carotenoid biosynthesis were found between MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 F.temperatum strains