Anamorph/Teleomorph Connections
Considerable debate in the mycological literature has centered
on the use of molecular techniques and cultural studies to connect
anamorphic and teleomorphic states (see Reynolds and Taylor, 1993).
This project will provide practical examples of the way in which
these studies might be undertaken, and the light that they may
shed on the problem. Our primary approach will be to culture
accessions obtained from the teleomorphic phase in the wild, in
the hopes of establishing the anamorph counterpart. In some cases
it may be possible to connect anamorphs with teleomorphs using
molecular data (e.g., LoBuglio et al., 1993, 1994). These studies
will also make possible an analysis of the degree of congruence
and evolutionary divergence of the teleomorphic and anamorphic
phases of the life cycle. The evolution of complex life-cycles
is an issue of considerable theoretical interest, and detailed
insights from fungi may have an important bearing on alternative
views.