ABSTRACT: We investigated systematic relationships and morphological and ecological features of an ergot that commonly infects species of the maritime grass Spartina. Phylogenetic analysis of ribosomal DNA Internal Transcribed Spaces 1 sequences demonstrated that the Spartina ergot is placed in a clade with Claviceps purpurea. Structural differences of sclerotia distinguish it from the Claviceps purpurea var. purpurea as seen on rye and other grasses. Sclerotia of the Spartina Claviceps float in 1% saline and fresh water while those of C. p. purpurea sink. In addition, the Spartina Claviceps has a unique alkaloid profile. In regognition of the differences between C. purpurea and the new Spartina ergot a new variety, C. p. spartinae var. nov., is proposed.

KEYWORDS: Ascomycetes, Clavicipitaceae, Spartine, sclerotia, salt marsh

NOMENCLATURAL NOVELTIES:
Claviceps purpurea (Fr.) Tul. var. spartinae R. Duncan & J. F. White, p. 18