First DNA Barcoding Survey in Bulgaria Unveiled Huge Diversity of Yeasts in Insects

A pioneering DNA barcoding survey in Bulgaria has revealed a remarkable diversity of yeast species associated with insects, particularly within Pirin National Park. The study identified 89 ascomycetous and 18 basidiomycetous yeast isolates from a wide range of insect taxa, including Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Dermaptera, Isopoda, and Collembola. Notably, 18 previously unknown yeast species were uncovered, highlighting the untapped biodiversity within these ecosystems. The research utilized ribosomal markers (D1/D2 domains of LSU and ITS regions) to achieve precise identification, offering new insights into the microbial diversity harbored by insects in protected areas.

Dimitrov, R., Gouliamova, D., Guéorguiev, B., Smith, M., Groenewald, M., & Boekhout, T. (2024). First DNA Barcoding Survey in Bulgaria Unveiled Huge Diversity of Yeasts in Insects. Insects, 15(8), 566. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15080566