Gnomoniaceae

Gnomoniaceae is a family of fungi within the division Ascomycota. It is part of the larger clade Diaporthomycetidae. This family comprises various species of fungi that are commonly found on trees and other woody plants. Their interactions with these host organisms can be biotrophic or necrotrophic in nature.

Members of the Gnomoniaceae family are typically characterized by their two-spored ascospores and explosively dehiscing perithecia. These structures allow for the release of spores into the environment. The fruiting bodies, also known as perithecia, are usually found on twigs, leaves, stems, or roots of the host plant. Some species of Gnomoniaceae may have an intracellular or extracellular, coelomate or parasitic life style.

Gnomoniaceae family includes several well-known species worldwide. Notably, species such as Gnomonia veneta is known to be host specific, only growing on ash. The sexual and asexual phases of this fungus can be differentiated. By contrast, the species Gnomonia banksianae has a wide range of host substrates that include near temperate to arctic, coniferous trees. Generally, the influence of these fungi on ecosystems is limited, often triggering secondary plant responses that might negatively affect the total plant competitiveness.

The Gnomoniaceae family of fungi has been a research focal point for various scientists. Contributions were made towards understanding the impact of phylogenetic divisions and studying structural epiphragms as tools to indirectly observe wood microstructure properties in logs for firewood preparation. Their interactive nature mirrors numerous theoretical examples with other plant groups.