SEQUENCING AND ANALYSIS OF FUSARIUM GENOMIC DIVERSITY

The major objective of this agreement is to generate complete genome and transcriptome sequences for representative species within the genus Fusarium. The fungal genus Fusarium includes devastating plant pathogens, threatening practically every major food crop around the world. In addition, many species produce metabolites that are highly toxic to animals and plants. Fusarium is one of the most extensively studied fungal genera, with a highly advanced state of accumulated knowledge with respect to its basic biology, pathology, and species-level phylogeny. However, there is an increasing need to develop a comparative genomic framework and associated tools that enable a global understanding of the biology, diversity, ecology, pathology, and evolution of the most agriculturally important groups within this genus. We aim to create such a framework by generating complete genome and transcriptome sequences for representative fusaria in order to: (a) improve diagnosis and detection; (b) improve understanding of the pathology and evolution of Fusarium; (c) facilitate the quick translation of basic knowledge to disease and toxin management; and (d) preserve and share accumulated data, ¿experience-based¿ knowledge, and tools for future research and education.