Chapter 37 - Komagataella Y. Yamada, Matsuda, Maeda & Mikata (1995)

Abstract

This chapter studies the genus Komagataella. In the determination of asexual reproduction, yeast cells arise by multilateral budding on a narrow base and are spherical to ovoid in shape. Neither pseudohyphae nor true hyphae are produced. In sexual reproduction it is seen that asci may be unconjugated or show conjugation between a cell and its bud or between independent cells. Asci produce one to four hat-shaped ascospores and the spores may be quickly or slowly liberated. Known species are homothallic. In physiology and biochemistry it is seen that glucose is fermented but other sugars are not. This study further examines the phylogenetic placement. The type of species mentioned is Komagataella pastoris. The species accepted are Komagataella pastoris, Komagataella phaffii, and Komagataella pseudopastoris. The systematic discussion of the species includes growth on 5% malt extract agar, growth on the surface of assimilation media, Dalmau plate culture on morphology agar, formation of ascospores, origin of the strains studied, authentic strain, systematics, ecology, biotechnology, agriculture and food, and clinical importance.