Recent Papers

Volume 15 - 2024 Issue 1

30. Identification and characterization of Albonectria, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora species associated with ornamental plants in Southern China
Zhang YX et al. (2024)

29. Lignicolous freshwater fungi from karst landscapes in Yunnan Province, China
Wang WP et al. (2024)

28. Lignicolous freshwater fungi from China Ⅳ: Morphology and phylogeny reveal new species of Pleosporales from plateau lakes in Yunnan Province, China
Shen HW et al. (2024)

27. Unlocking nature’s pharmacy: diversity of medicinal properties and mycochemicals in the family Hymenochaetaceae (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota)
Ghobad-Nejhad M et al. (2024)

26. A reappraisal of families within the order Magnaporthales and description of new endophytic taxa associated with Poaceae plants in China
Feng JW et al. (2024)

25. The 2024 Outline of Fungi and fungus-like taxa
Hyde KD et al. (2024)

24. Bambusicolous Fungi from Southwestern China
Yu XD et al. (2024)

23. Oomycetes as biocontrol agents: unveiling their potential and mechanisms in plant disease control
Li Y et al. (2024)

22. The revision of the taxonomic system of Lycoperdaceae
Li JX et al. (2024)

21. Bambusicolous mycopathogens in China with an update on taxonomic diversity, novel species, pathogenicity, and new insights
Yang CL et al. (2024)

Volume 15 - 2024 - Issue 1

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1. Taxonomy and phylogeny of ascomycetes associated with selected economically important monocotyledons in China and Thailand

Authors: Tian XG, Bao DF, Karunarathna SC, Jayawardena RS, Hyde KD, Bhat DJ, Luo ZL, Elgorban AM, Hongsanan S, Rajeshkumar KC, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Suwannarach N, Dawoud TM, Lu YZ, Han JJ, Xiao YP, Du TY, Lu L, Xu RF, Dai DQ, Liu XF, Liu C, Tibpromma S

Recieved: 06 October 2023, Accepted: 15 December 2023, Published: 22 February 2024

Monocotyledons are one of the important groups of flowering plants that include approximately 60,000 species with economically important crops including coconut (Cocos nucifera), pineapple (Ananas comosus), and rice (Oryza sativa). Studies on these hosts are mainly focused on pathogenic fungi; only a few saprobic species have been reported. This study investigated the saprobic ascomycetes associated with coconut, pineapple, and rice in southern China and northern Thailand. Approximately 200 specimens were collected, and 100 fungal strains were isolated and identified to 77 species based on phylogenetic approaches and morphological characteristics. Among the 77 species, 29, 38, and 12 were found on coconut, pineapple, and rice, respectively, distributed in Dothideomycetes (41), Eurotiomycetes (one), and Sordariomycetes (35). Pseudomycoleptodiscus, Pseudosaprodesmium Pseudosetoseptoria, Pseudostriatosphaeria and Pseudoteichospora are introduced as new genera and Anthostomella cocois, Apiospora ananas, Chromolaenicola ananasi, Epicoccum yunnanensis, Exserohilum ananas, Hypoxylon cocois, Lasiodiplodia ananasi, Muyocopron chiangraiense, Myrmecridium yunnanense, Occultitheca ananasi, Periconia chiangraiensis, Placidiopsis ananasi, Pseudomycoleptodiscus ananas, Pseudosaprodesmium cocois, Pseudosetoseptoria oryzae, Pseudostriatosphaeria chiangraiensis, Pseudoteichospora thailandensis, Savoryella chiangraiensis, Savoryella cocois, and Tetraploa oryzae are introduced as novel species. In addition, 51 species are reported as new hosts or geographical records, and six species are reported as new collections. Pseudopithomyces pandanicola and P. palmicola are synonymized under P. chartarum, P. diversisporus synonymized under P. atro-olivaceus based on phylogenetic analyses and morphological characteristics. Moreover, comprehensive checklists of fungi associated with coconut, pineapple, and rice are also provided.

Keywords: 25 new taxa – Ascomycota – Dothideomycetes – Pseudomycoleptodiscus – Pseudosaprodesmium – Pseudosetoseptoria – Pseudostriatosphaeria – Pseudoteichospora – Sordariomycetes – Taxonomy

 

2. Unveiling fungal diversity in China: New species and records within the Xylariaceae

Authors: Li QR, Habib K, Long SH, Wu YP, Zhang X, Hu HM, Wu QZ, Liu LL, Zhou SX, Shen XC, Kang JC

Recieved: 19 October 2023, Accepted: 15 December 2023, Published: 28 February 2024

In this study, we describe 27 new species of xylarialean taxa based on a comprehensive analysis that combines morpho-anatomy and multi-locus phylogenetics using ITS, rpb2, and TUB2 loci sequences. The newly identified species include Anthostomella guizhouensis, An. yunnanensis, Astrocystis dinghuensis, As. guizhouensis, As. heterocyclae, As. sichuanensis, Collodiscula baoshanensis, C. quadrangularis, Kretzschmaria sichuanensis, K. kuankuoshuiensis, K. landingshanensis, Nemania bannaensis, N. buxi, N. landingshanensis, N. lasiocarpae, N. leigongshanensis, N. mengmanensis, N. subchangningensis, Nigropunctata khalidii, Pandanicola guizhouensis, Rosellinia cerasi, R. guiyangensis, R. guizhouensis, R. limushanensis, R. lishuicola, R. wuzhishanensis, and R. yaorenshanensis. Additionally, we report the occurrence of xylarialean taxa in China or on the Chinese mainland as new geographical findings, which includes Anthostomella leucobasis, An. pseudobambusicola, An. rhaphidophylli, An. smilacis, An. vestita, Astrocystis bambusae, Rosellinia yumingjui, Stilbohypoxylon elaeidicola and Xylaria frustulosa, X. glebulosa, and X. longissima. Morphologically similar species and phylogenetically close taxa are compared and discussed. This extensive exploration enhances our understanding of fungal diversity and distribution, particularly within the context of China’s rich ecological landscape and the Xylariaceae.

Keywords: 27 new species – Taxonomy – Xylariaceae in China – Xylariales

 

3. RETRACTED: New insights into Gymnopus s.l.: its systematic rearrangements and novel taxa

Authors: Hu JJ, Tuo YL, Yue L, Zhao GP, He XL, Song LR, Pu JB, Qi ZX, Qin WQ, Li TH, Jiang DH, Zhang B, Li Y, Li X

Recieved: 31 October 2023, Accepted: 15 December 2023, Published: 28 February 2024

Keywords:

 

4. Study on the diversity of rust pathogens from different hosts in Guizhou Province, China

Authors: Sun JE, Fu L, Norphanphoun C, Chen XJ, Yu LF, Hyde KD, McKenzie EHC, Wang Y, Yang ZF, Liu FQ

Recieved: 16 October 2023, Accepted: 20 December 2023, Published: 06 March 2024

Rust fungi are obligate plant pathogens that belong to Basidiomycota, Puccinomycetes, Pucciniales. Guizhou Province in Southwest China is rich in plant resources and has suitable climate conditions for plant disease development, but there are few studies on rust fungi. In this study over 300 plant samples with typical rust symptoms were collected from 33 counties in various regions of Guizhou Province. These samples come from 98 different host plants in 33 families. According to ITS-BLAST comparison results, the rust fungi belonged to 17 genera of 11 families in Chaconiaceae (Mikronegeria), Coleosporiaceae (Coleosporium), Gymnosporangiaceae (Gymnosporangium), Melampsoraceae (Melampsora), Phakopsoraceae (Phakopsora), Phragmidiaceae (Gerwasia, Hamapora, Phragmidium), Pileolariaceae (Pileolaria), Pucciniaceae (Endophylum, Macropyxis, Puccinia, Uromyces), Pucciniastraceae (Pucciniastram), Tranzscheliaceae (Tranzschelia), and Uredinineae incertae sedis (Nyssopsora, Peridiopsora). Phylogenetic analysis based on combined sequence data of ITS, LSU and tef1α loci, coupled with morphological evidence, support the species identification. Ninety-three species of rust fungi were obtained, comprising 29 novel taxa and 61 known species. Most of the rust species belonged to Pucciniaceae (48.9%), while the most prevalent host family infected was Rosaceae (21.9%). The Rosaceae are particularly susceptible to Phragmidium spp. 

Keywords: Host jumping – Molecular phylogeny – Plant disease – Rust fungi – Taxonomy

 

5. Culturable Mycobiota from Guizhou Wildlife Park in China

Authors: Zhang ZY, Pan H, Tao G, Li X, Han YF, Feng Y, Tong SQ, Ding CY

Recieved: 29 November 2023, Accepted: 24 April 2024, Published: 30 May 2024

Wildlife parks play a positive role in strengthening the publicity and education of wildlife protection, rational utilization of wildlife resources, and socio-economic development. Due to anthropogenic influences, wildlife parks are characterized by highly heterogeneous environments, which inevitably harbor a great diversity of fungal taxa. Few systematic surveys of soil fungal taxa in wildlife parks have been reported. We investigated fungal taxa in the soil of Guizhou Wildlife Park, China, using culture-dependent methods to enrich the information on fungal diversity in such habitats. Preliminary internal transcribed spacer (ITS) analyses showed that 223 taxa were obtained in this study. Such taxa belonged to 126 genera, 10 undefined genera, 12 classes, and three phyla. This study identifies and describes one new order, one new family, two new genera, 21 new species, two new combinations, one new record from China and one asexual morph based on morphological and phylogenetic distinctions. Tuberculiformaceae is introduced as a new family, in the new order Tuberculiformales with Tuberculiforma as the type genus. In addition, a new genus, Paragongromeriza, with Paragongromeriza sinensis as the type species is introduced. Taxonomic novelties: New section, Guizhouorum is introduced in Penicillium. The novel species identified in this study are Amorocoelophoma sinensis, Aphanoascus guizhouensis, Apiospora olivata, Bisifusarium sinense, Idriella longispora, Marquandomyces sinensis, Nigrograna guizhouensis, Paragongromeriza sinensis, Parasarocladium sinense, Penicillium guizhouense, Phaeodothis sinensis, Pseudogymnoascus wildlifiparkensis, Quasiconcha sinensis, Scolecobasidium guizhouense, Scolecobasidium inverellipsoidisporum, Scolecobasidium parahumicola, Talaromyces longistipes, Talaromyces parapalmae, Tuberculiforma sinensis, Volutella sinensis, Yunnanomyces sexualis. New combinations, Keithomyces echinosporus and Tuberculiforma catenatus. New record in China, Scolecobasidium longiphorum and the asexual morph of Nemania rubi are given as the first reports. This work further demonstrated that wildlife park encompasses a high fungal diversity, including many previously unknown species which enhances our comprehension of soil fungal diversity within urban environments.

Keywords: Ascomycota – new taxa – Paragongromeriza – soil fungi – Tuberculiforma – Tuberculiformaceae – Tuberculiformales

 

6. Hyperdiverse Rhytismatales on twigs of Rhododendron spp.

Authors: Guo MJ, Zhuo L, Wang SJ, Sui XN, Zhou H, Cai SR, Luo JT, Lei RH, Shen XY, Piepenbring M, Hou CL

Recieved: 02 November 2023, Accepted: 24 April 2024, Published: 04 June 2024

Rhytismatales M.E. Barr ex Minter (Leotiomycetes, Ascomycota) is an order mostly consists of plant-associated ascomycetes with a global distribution. Among host plant taxa in diverse relationships, Rhododendron L. is one of the most preferred host genera of Rhytismatales. Rhododendron is the largest genus of Ericaceae Juss. and presents a high species diversity in south-western China. In this study, the species diversity of Rhytismatales on twigs of Rhododendron spp. is investigated based on over 100 specimens recently collected in China. These were examined morphologically and by multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on molecular sequence data from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the large subunit of the ribosomal RNA gene (nrLSU) and the mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU rDNA). Eight monophyletic groups with strong support and distinct morphological characteristics are proposed as new genera, namely Lophodermiopsis, Neotryblidiopsis, Occultimyces, Rhodohypoderma, Septofusella, Septomyces, Shuqunia, and Yingrenia. Thirty-three new species are recognized, and three new combinations are proposed. Apparently, twigs of Rhododendron spp. have been repeatedly colonized during evolution by members of Rhytismatales and most of these species specifically develop their ascomata on this substrate. Radiation on this substrate occurred relatively recently leading to species diversity within genera. Information on all 54 species of Rhytismatales on twigs of Rhododendron spp. are combined in a complete revision of this group of fungi based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses. Keys to genera and species of Rhytismatales on twigs of Rhododendron spp. worldwide are provided. The results of the molecular phylogenetic analysis indicate that a natural classification of Rhytismatales on genus level cannot be defined based on few morphological characteristics, but a combination of many morphological characteristics together with information derived from molecular sequence data, the host relationship, as well as the organ infected are necessary. 

Keywords: 36 new taxa – Host organ specificity – Phylogeny – Taxonomy

 

7. Polyphasic taxonomy clarifies the relationships between Butyriboletus and Exsudoporus, and new taxa and reports of Boletaceae from China

Authors: Wang Y, Ma YH, Wu G, Yang XY, Liu YJ, Rao G, Dai D, Gui XY, Tuo YL, Wang LY, Chen X, Zhang B, Li Y

Recieved: 28 November 2023, Accepted: 23 April 2024, Published: 02 July 2024

The relationships of inter-genus in Boletaceae interested peers for a long time. China benefits from its wide territory and various environments containing plentiful species of Boletaceae. In this study, combining morphology, phylogeny, and biogeography, we discussed in detail the phylogenetic status of Exsudoporus and Butyriboletus and redivided Butyriboletus into three sections. Exsudoporus is now treated as a section under Butyriboletus. The others are sect. Butyriboletus and sect. Rhodocarnei. Biogeographical analyses show that Butyriboletus originated from East Asia at 23 Mya, with the sect. Butyriboletus and the sect. Exsudoporus originated at a close time from North and Central America, and East Asia, respectively. Sect. Rhodocarnei are from East Asia at 23 Mya. The “long-distance” dispersal is considered to be the highest likelihood of Butyriboletus dispersal and allopatric speciation is the major reason for interpreting extant distributions of species. The Land bridge is not the only way for Butyriboletus to dispersal to the other continents, especially between Asia and North and Central America. Atmosphere transport also as an important role in shaping the current distribution structure of Butyriboletus. According to our research, Nigroboletus does not have adequate evidence to warrant a status of genus whether from morphology or phylogeny. Nigroboletus was now treated as a synonym of Xerocomellus. Meanwhile, we reported 16 new taxa here, one new genus Niveoboletus gen. nov., and seven new species Niveoboletus brunneus sp. nov., Rugiboletus caeruloruber sp. nov., Cyanoboletus viscidiceps sp. nov., Xerocomellus velutinoceps sp. nov., Xerocomellus inflatus sp. nov., Xerocomellus fuscoscabrosus sp. nov., and Hortiboletus sinorubellus sp. nov., one new section sect. Rhodocarnei sect. nov., seven new combinations sect. Exsudoporus comb. nov., Butyriboletus permagnificus comb. nov., Xerocomellus roseonigrescens comb. nov., Neoboletus luridiceps comb. nov., Neoboletus austrinus comb. nov., Cyanoboletus gabretae comb. nov., and Neoboletus subvelutipes comb. nov. Additionally, we re-described eight species, five were new records for their provinces. For all species, detailed descriptions, photographs, and line-drawing were provided.

Keywords: 16 new taxa – basidiomycota – biogeography – evolution – long-distance dispersal – phylogeny

 

8. Saprobic ascomycetes associated with woody litter from the Greater Mekong Subregion (Southwestern China and Northern Thailand)

Authors: Ren GC, Jayasiri SC, Tibpromma S, De Farias ARG, Chethana KWT, Faraj KH, Wanasinghe DN, Xu JC, Hyde KD, Gui H

Recieved: 30 October 2023, Accepted: 04 July 2024, Published: 05 August 2024

The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is a global biodiversity hotspot. Over the last decade, the number of studies on microfungal diversity in the GMS has increased greatly. However, in the GMS, the fungi of terrestrial habitats, such as woody litter, are still poorly studied. This research provided morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of saprobic microfungi associated with woody litter collected from Southwestern China and Northern Thailand of GMS areas. Here, we revealed 41 fungal species, including 15 new species and 26 new host records. The newly described species are Anastomitrabeculia xishuangbannaensis, Camarosporidiella xianggelilaensis, Crassimassarina baoshanensis, Cucurbitaria lijiangensis, Homortomyces xianggelilaensis, Melomastia diqingensis, Neoaquastroma ehretiae, Nigrograna lancangensis, N. schimae, Nigropunctata yunnanensis, Pararoussoella lincangensis, Pseudolachnella lancangensis, Scolecohyalosporium baoshanense, Setoarthopyrenia jinghongensis and Stagonosporopsis lijiangensis. The new host records are Angustimassarina kunmingense, Acrocalymma magnoliae, A. pterocarpi, Aplosporella artocarpi, A. prunicola, Aurantiascoma minimum, Boeremia linicola, Clonostachys capitata, Corylicola italica, Crassiparies quadrisporus, Creosphaeria sassafras, Fuscostagonospora banksiae, Hongkongmyces thailandica, Lentithecium yunnanense, Magnibotryascoma mali, Melomastia sichuanensis, Melomastia thamplaensis, Nigrograna kunmingensis, N. magnoliae, N. thymi, Palmiascoma gregariascomum, P. qujingense, Plenodomus artemisiae, P. sinensis, Ramusculicola thailandica and Stylodothis puccinioides. In addition, the sexual morph of Fuscostagonospora banksiae is reported from Rhododendron rubiginosum in China.

 

Keywords: 15 new species – 26 new host records – Dothideomycetes – Microfungi – Sordariomycetes – Taxonomy

 

9. A yeast love triangle: multiple hybridizations shape genome evolution in the Pichia cactophila species complex

Authors: Mixão V, Saus E, Hagen F, Boekhout T, Stevens RW, Gabaldón T

Recieved: 28 January 2024, Accepted: 25 May 2024, Published: 27 August 2024

Hybrids are chimeric organisms carrying genetic material from at least two divergent parental lineages. Hybridization can contribute to the emergence of novel lineages with unique phenotypic traits that may facilitate their adaptation to new environments. In recent years, genomic analyses have revealed the hybrid nature of several opportunistic human pathogenic yeasts. One of them is Pichia inconspicua, a member of the Pichia cactophila species complex, for which all sequenced strains isolated from Europe are hybrids with so far unknown parentals. It has been recently proposed that P. inconspicua and P. cactophila s.s. should be ranked as the same species due to their genetic similarity. To obtain a better understanding of the evolution of this clade, we sequenced the genomes of the P. cactophila type strain, of its close–relative Pichia pseudocactophila, and of a putative P. inconspicua clinical isolate from Alaska and compared them with the previously sequenced genomes of Pichia norvegensis, P. inconspicua and the recently described Pichia galeolata. Our results show evidence for the existence of distinct lineages with a hybrid origin within this clade and suggest an intricate scenario of recurrent hybridizations in this species complex, some of them giving rise to lineages with the ability to infect humans. Given their different hybridization histories, we propose that P. inconspicua, P. cactophila, and the new clinical isolate from Alaska should represent three distinct species and suggest the name Pichia alaskaensis for the new taxon. Our results clarify the evolutionary relationships within the P. cactophila species complex and underscore the importance of non–vertical evolution.

Keywords: C. inconspicua – comparative genomic – P. alaskaensis – P. cactophila – P. galeolata – P. norvegensis – P. pseudocactophila

 

10. Species diversity, taxonomy, molecular systematics and divergence time of wood-inhabiting fungi in Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Asia

Authors: Dong JH, Li Q, Yuan Q, Luo YX, Zhang XC, Dai YF, Zhou Q, Liu XF, Deng YL, Zhou HM, Muhammad A, Zhao CL

Recieved: 27 January 2024, Accepted: 18 June 2024, Published: 27 August 2024

Wood-inhabiting fungi play a fundamental role in ecosystem processes, particularly in wood degradation and the recycling of organic matter. Recognized as pivotal contributors to the intricate balance of forest ecosystems, these fungi are renowned as “key players” due to their enzymatic prowess, effectively breaking down woody components like lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. In the current study, we embarked on an extensive collection expedition spanning various ecological niches. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of phylogenetic relationships among fungal wood-inhabiting collections was conducted, based on DNA sequences from multiple loci. These loci encompassed the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, the large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU), small subunit mitochondrial rRNA gene sequences (mtSSU), translation elongation factor 1-α gene (TEF1), RNA polymerase II largest subunit (RPB1), and the second subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2). This multi-locus approach allowed for a robust assessment of the evolutionary relationships within the fungal community. Our analyses revealed the new families Hypochniciaceae and Neohypochniciaceae, and a new genus Donkiella which are introduced forty-two new species, novel species described in this paper include Artomyces niveus, A. yunnanensis, Corticium roseoalbum, Dendrothele yunnanensis, Donkiella yunnanensis, Efibula daweishanensis, Etheirodon roseoalbum, Fibrodontia bambusicola, Hydnoporia pinicola, H. yunnanensis, Lyomyces daweishanensis, L. incanus, L. lincangensis, L. luteoalbus, L. qujingensis, L. sinensis, Neohypochnicium daweishanense, N. farinaceum, N. murinum, N. velutinum, N. yunnanense, N. zixishanense, Peniophorella daweishanensis, P. olivacea, Phanerochaete mopanshanensis, Phlebiopsis daweishanensis, Radulomyces hydnoides, R. yunnanensis, R. zixishanensis, Scytinostroma daweishanense, Skeletocutis rhizomorpha, Skvortzovia incana, Steccherinum lincangense, S. longiaculeiferum, S. weishanense, Subulicystidium yunnanense, Tubulicrinis pini, Xylodon bamburesupinus, X. fissilus, X. hydnoidus, X. olivaceobubalinus and X. pingbianensis. To enhance accessibility and understanding, the paper includes illustrated descriptions of the newly proposed species and comprehensive notes on the genera under scrutiny.

Keywords: 45 new taxa – Basidiomycota – Hymenochaetales – Molecular systematics – Polyporales – Taxonomy – Wood-decaying fungi

 

11. Mycosphere Notes 469-520

Authors: Hyde KD, Wijesinghe SN, Afshari N, Aumentado HD, Bhunjun CS, Boonmee S, Camporesi E, Chethana KWT, Doilom M, Dong W, Du TY, Farias ARG, Gao Y, Jayawardena RS, Karimi O, Karunarathna SC, Kularathnage ND, Lestari AS, Li CJY, Li YX, Liao CF, Liu XF, Lu L, Lu YZ, Luo ZL, Ma J, Mamarabadi M, Manawasinghe IS, Mapook A, Mi LX, Niranjan M, Senanayake IC, Shen HW, Su HL, Tibpromma S, Xu RJ, Yan JY, Yang YH, Yang YY, Yu FQ, Kang JC, Zhang JY

Recieved: 19 January 2024, Accepted: 19 June 2024, Published: 27 August 2024

Fungi are ubiquitous and essential to ecosystem functioning and biotechnology and have been estimated to have a global value of US$ 54.57 trillion annually. This is the eleventh in a series of Mycosphere notes where we provide entries on new species and higher taxa, new host records, geographical (country) records, and habitat records of fungi. Species boundaries were defined using polyphasic approaches based on morphology and molecular phylogeny. In the set of notes, we introduce ten new species, Conlarium multiseptatum, Co. yunnanense, Cudonia gracilistipitata, Cu. yunnanensis, Cyathicula dioscoreae, Cy. rusci, Helminthosporium guizhouense, Neopestalotiopsis neomaricae, Plectania submilleri, and Plenodomus shangrilaense. In addition, we reveal ecological relationships of Ascomycota including 22 new host records (Apiospora guizhouensis, A. phyllostachydis, Colletotrichum dematium, Distoseptispora suoluoensis, Dothiorella plurivora, Gloniopsis calami, Junewangia lamma, Kirschsteiniothelia atra, Lasiodiplodia hormozganensis, Letendraea helminthicola, Melomastia winteri, Nectria asiatica, Neoostropa castaneae, Nigrograna magnolia, Nigrospora macarangae, N. oryzae, N. sphaerica, Parasporendocladia bactrospora, Plenodomus artemisiae, Pseudoacrodictys deightonii, Pseudofusicoccum adansoniae, and Torula mackenziei); five new geographical records (Caesiodiscus populicola, Codinaea aseptate, C. fertilis, Mycotribulus indonesiae, Tricladium terrestre, and Vaginatispora nypae); seven recognitions of both new host and geographical records (Allocryptovalsa rabenhorstii, Barriopsis stevensiana, Distoseptispora thysanolaenae, Massarioramusculicola chiangraiensis, Peroneutypa longiasca, Phomatospora uniseriate, and Thyridaria aureobrunnea); five newly identified habitat records (Conlarium sichuanense, Distoseptispora crassispora, D. nonrostrata, Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola, Talaromyces variabilis); one new host and habitat record (Distoseptispora dehongensis), and one new host, geographical and habitat record (Amphisphaeria uniseptata). An unusual asexual Basidiomycota, Mycotribulus indonesiae (Physalacriaceae), was revealed as a new geographical record. Furthermore, we provide new molecular data for all 52 collected species belonging to two phyla, six classes, 20 orders, 30 families and 39 genera. A list of all genera discussed in Mycosphere notes 1–520 is provided. The fungal species were found as endophytes, pathogens, and saprobes on plant material and litter substrates from terrestrial, freshwater, and cave habitats in China, Italy, Iran, and Thailand. This study extends our understanding of fungal taxonomy, biodiversity, ecology, and distribution, and encourages future research in unexplored geographies, habitats and among fungal hosts that have yet to be studied.

Keywords: 10 new species – 42 new records – Ascomycota – Basidiomycota – Allocryptovalsa – Amphisphaeria – Apiospora – Barriopsis – Caesiodiscus – Codinaea – Colletotrichum – Conlarium – Cudonia – Cyathicula – Distoseptispora – Dothiorella – geographical records – habitat records – host records – Gloniopsis – Helminthosporium – Junewangia – Kirschsteiniothelia – Lasiodiplodia – Letendraea – Massarioramusculicola – Melomastia – Mycotribulus – Nectria – Neoostropa – Neopestalotiopsis – Nigrograna – Nigrospora – Parasporendocladia – Peroneutypa – Pestalotiopsis – Phomatospora – Phylogeny – Plectania – Plenodomus – Pseudoacrodictys – Pseudofusicoccum – Sordariomycetes – Talaromyces – Taxonomy – Thyridaria – Torula – Tricladium – Vaginatispora

 

12. Multi–gene phylogeny and taxonomy of Physisporinus (Polyporales, Basidiomycota)

Authors: Wang CG, Dai YC, Kout J, Gates GM, Liu HG, Yuan Y, Vlasák J

Recieved: 12 January 2024, Accepted: 15 July 2024, Published: 03 September 2024

The polypores in Physisporinus are important wood decayers, in which they grow on both angiosperms and gymnosperms from living trees to rotten wood in almost all the forest ecosystems worldwide. The species diversity of the genus has been investigated, but it is still not well known. Phylogenetic and morphological analyses of this genus are carried out based on samples from Asia, Europe, Australia, and North and Central America. This genus is defined by a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa on generative hyphae, hyphoid cystidia present in most species, hyaline, thin-walled, ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores, and having a white-rotting ecology. Phylogenies are reconstructed by using multiple loci DNA sequences containing ITS, nuc–LSU, nuc–SSU, mt–SSU, TEF1-α, and RPB2. The results demonstrate that Physisporinus and Meripilus belong to Meripilaceae of Polyporales. In addition, 12 new species in Physisporinus are illustrated and described, and three unnamed taxa are discussed with a full description. Our phylogeny demonstrates that all taxa of Physisporinus formed five clades nested in a major clade. A key to accepted 37 taxa of Physisporinus is provided.

Keywords: Meripilaceae – new taxa – polypore – phylogenetic analyses – white rot

 

13. Notes on all Genera of Omphalotaceae: Expanding the Taxonomic Spectrum in China and Revisiting Historical Type Specimens

Authors: Li JP, Oliveira JJS, Pan MC, Deng CY, Antonín V, Xiao ZD, Li FF, Li TH, Li Y, Dai YT, Li CT

Recieved: 23 January 2024, Accepted: 30 July 2024, Published: 04 September 2024

Since the 1990s, Gymnopus sensu lato has undergone significant taxonomic revisions, which have led to elucidative taxonomic and systematic studies in Omphalotaceae. These revisions are characterized by the introduction of five novel genera and the reallocation of specific taxa to existing genera, all aimed at rectifying their polyphyletic status. However, the persistent polyphyletic nature of Gymnopus is underscored by the distinct lineage within the basal clade formed by the reference sequences of G. contrarius, which stands apart from the primary Gymnopus clade. The classification of this ambiguous clade remains a mystery. The species’ original description was re–evaluated and refined based on the examination of the two related type specimens and further bolstered by continuous research on new samples from China. A century–old type specimen from the USA has enabled its sequence to be included in a comprehensive molecular phylogenetic analysis of Omphalotaceae. This investigation employed two markers, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the nuclear large subunit (LSU), were used to explore phylogenetic relationships between genera. Through detailed morphological assessments against recognized genera, this clade was validated as a unique monotypic genus, leading to the proposal of Peckorumyces gen. nov. This new classification bridges existing morpho–phylogenetic gaps and addresses the longstanding polyphyletic issue of Gymnopus. To compare with this unusual “Gymnopus” species, 20 taxa within Omphalotaceae were studied, including 15 new species and five known species. Among these taxa, one genus and three species are new to China. In addition, nine new combinations were made based on phylogenetic analyses. This study is enriched with vivid colour photographs, line drawings of microscopic structures, detailed description of the new genus, and well–sampled phylogeny.

Keywords: Anthracophyllum – Collybioid fungi – Collybiopsis – Connopus – Gymnopanella – Gymnopus – Hymenoporus – Lentinula – Marasmioid fungi – Mycetinis – Neonothopanus – New genus – New species – Omphalotus – Paragymnopus – Paramycetinis – Phylogeny – Pseudomarasmius – Pusillomyces – Rhodocollybia

 

14. Resolving the polyphyletic origins of Pholiotina s.l. (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) based on Chinese materials and reliable foreign sequences

Authors: Song HB, Bau T

Recieved: 20 January 2024, Accepted: 15 July 2024, Published: 05 September 2024

In Bolbitiaceae, the polyphyletic origin of Pholiotina sensu lato has led to the classification of many species of Pholiotina under Conocybe, causing confusion among researchers. This study aimed to reconcile morphology and phylogeny using Chinese materials and reliable gene sequences. To reconstruct the relationships of Pholiotina sensu lato, we conducted maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses using a combined dataset of nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region (nrITS), nuclear ribosomal DNA 28S subunit (nrLSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α). The analysis revealed three major clades within Pholiotina sensu lato: Pholiotina Clade 1, Pholiotina Clade 2, and Pholiotina Clade 3. A new genus named Conocybula was established within Pholiotina Clade 1, sister to Galerella nigeriensis. Conocybula comprises the Conocybula section Cyanopodae and Conocybula section Conocybula. Pholiotina Clade 2 was identified as a new genus called Conobolbitina, which includes Conobolbitina section Conobolbitina, Conobolbitina section Aeruginosa, and Conobolbitina section Verrucisporae. Based on the revision of Hausknecht’s definition of Pholiotina, the monophyletic group of Pholiotina Clade 3, characterised by the presence of a veil, is considered a true Pholiotina. Therefore, Pholiotina now includes only Pholiotina section Pholiotina, Pholiotina section Vestitae, and Pholiotina section Intermediae. This study discovered 30 new taxonomic groups, including two new genera, 17 new species, 11 new combinations, and two new records from China. Keys for the genera, sections, and species within the family Bolbitiaceae in China are compiled. Morphological descriptions and line drawings of the 17 new species and two newly recorded species are provided. By resolving the delimitation of genera, sections, and species within Pholiotina sensu lato, we addressed possible phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary trends among genera and infrageneric ranks in Bolbitiaceae.

Keywords: Bolbitiaceae – morphology – Pholiotina s.l. – phylogenetics – Polyphyletic

 

15. Exploring the taxonomy and phylogeny of Sordariomycetes taxa emphasizing Xylariomycetidae in Southwestern China

Authors: Dissanayake LS, Samarakoon MC, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Hyde KD, Tang X, Li QR, Mortimer PE, Faraj TK, Xu JC, Kang JC, Wanasinghe DN

Recieved: 18 April 2024, Accepted: 30 July 2024, Published: 05 September 2024

Southwestern China has been widely acknowledged as a global biodiversity hotspot, renowned for its high levels of floral, faunal and microbial diversity. However, research on fungi, particularly microfungi, remains limited with comparison to the other kingdoms i.e. Plantae and Animalia. Within the fungal kingdom, the subclass Xylariomycetidae (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota), presents a vast range of macro- and micro-morphological features, yet our knowledge of their taxonomy, diversity and geographical distribution is still lacking. To fill out this knowledge gap, our study focused on a survey of Xylariomycetidae taxa across diverse habitats in the Southwest of China, encompassing the provinces of Guizhou, Sichuan and Yunnan. The primary objective of this study was to examine fresh collections of terrestrial Xylariomycetidae and to investigate their taxonomy and phylogeny via polyphasic approaches. Employing phylogenetic analysis of targeted DNA loci within specific families and genera, encompassing all accessible ex-type and non-type strains as well as holotypes and additional herbarium material, we elucidated novel taxonomic relationships among Xylariomycetidae in Southwestern China. Our analyses revealed 30 previously unidentified species and confirmed the existence of 20 known species within the Xylariomycetidae. We also validly publish Apiospora koreana as a new species as it was previously invalidly published. Fourteen new species are introduced to Amphisphaeriales viz. Amphisphaeria ailaoshanensis, A. kunmingensis, A. magna, A. shangrilaensis, A. xishuangbannaense (Amphisphaeriaceae), Apiospora arecacearum, A. koreana, A. menglaensis, A. senecionis and A. trachycarpi (Apiosporaceae), Neoamphisphaeria shangrilaensis (Appendicosporaceae), Iodosphaeria sichuanensis (Iodosphaeriaceae), Broomella meilishanguensis and Robillarda sichuanensis (Sporocadaceae). In Xylariales, 14 new species were introduced viz. Barrmaelia yunnanensis, B. shangrilaensis, Entosordaria shangrilana (Barrmaeliaceae), Diatrypella kunmingensis, Peroneutypa hongheensis (Diatrypaceae), Fasciatispora sichuanensis (Fasciatisporaceae), Hypoxylon guiyangense, H. guizhouense (Hypoxylaceae), Requienella shangrilana (Requienellaceae), Vamsapriya sichuanensis (Vamsapriyaceae), Collodiscula yunnanensis, Digitodochium ailaoshanense, D. yunnanensis and Nemania leishanensis (Xylariaceae). We identified three new Distoseptispora species, D. chishuiensis, D. liupanshuiensis and D. sichuanensis, in Sordariomycetidae. These findings greatly enhance our understanding of fungal diversity in the region, highlighting the presence of numerous potentially novel species and providing a compelling opportunity for mycologists to explore further research avenues. Additionally, the comprehensive morphological descriptions and molecular sequences generated by this study serve as valuable resources for future taxonomic studies and contribute to a broader understanding of fungal diversity in Southwestern China.

Keywords: 31 new taxa – appendage – Ascomycota – ascospores – conidia – unitunicate

 

16. Morphological and phylogenetic studies of Ascomycota from gymnosperms in Sichuan Province, China

Authors: Tian WH, Liu JW, Jin Y, Chen YP, Zhou YF, Wu K, Su PW, Guo XY, Wanasinghe DN, Hyde KD, Liu JK, Maharachchikumbura SSN

Recieved: 25 July 2024, Accepted: 13 August 2024, Published: 11 September 2024

Gymnosperms constitute more than 39% of forest species worldwide, playing a crucial role in terrestrial ecosystems and supplying significant quantities of wood, resin, medicinal plants and other resources key to human economic development. The fungi associated with gymnosperms serve as valuable resources exhibiting diverse biological activities. This study explored the diversity of Ascomycota associated with gymnosperms belonging to Cupressaceae, Cycadaceae, Ginkgoaceae, Pinaceae and Podocarpaceae in Sichuan Province, which harbors the second-largest number of gymnosperm species in China. Through multi-locus phylogenetic analysis and morphological examination, we introduce a new family Neodictyocheirosporaceae (Helotiales), two new genera: Neodictyocheirospora (Neodictyocheirosporaceae) and Neogregarithecium (Dictyosporiaceae), as well as 21 new species and 12 new host or country records. The new species include Aposphaeria sichuanensis, Camposporium pini, Circinotrichum podocarpi, Conlarium metasequoiae, Dictyosporium cycadicola, Ellisembia cryptomeriae, Gregarithecium bambusae, Kiflimonium cryptomeriae, Kylindria cryptomeriae, Memnoniella cunninghamiae, Neodictyocheirospora appendiculate, Neodictyocheirospora sichuanensis, Neogregarithecium sichuanense, Niesslia cryptomeriae, Niesslia podocarpi, Nigrocephalum cycadicola, Parasympodiella cryptomeriae, Phragmocamarosporium ginkgonis, Thyridaria pini, Triposporium cryptomeriae, Vibrissea catenata. New host or country records are documented for Codinaea dwaya, Conidiocarpus caucasicu, Distoseptispora tectonae, Fulvoflamma eucalypti, Gyrothrix encephalarti, Harzia sphaerospora, Musicillium elettariae, Nigrograna locuta-pollinis, Phragmocephala atra, Pseudochaetosphaeronema magnoliae, Velutinus sichuanensis, Xenoroussoella triseptata. Furthermore, we propose the transfer of Fulvoflamma (Helotiales genera incertae sedis) to Mniaeciaceae (Leotiales) based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis. Our findings highlight the discovery of unique and uncommon fungi within less speciose genera such as Gregarithecium, Kiflimonium, Kylindria, Nigrocephalum, Parasympodiella, Phragmocamarosporium, Fulvoflamma, Harzia, Musicillium and Xenoroussoella, emphasizing the distinctive mycota associated with gymnosperms.

Keywords: 12 new records – 21 new species – Neodictyocheirosporaceae – phylogeny – saprophytic fungi – taxonomy

 

17. Exploring fungi: a taxonomic and phylogenetic study of leaf-inhabiting Ascomycota in Musa species from northern Thailand, with a global checklist

Authors: Samarakoon BC, Wanasinghe DN, Samarakoon MC, Bundhun D, Jayawardena R, Hyde KD, Chomnunti P

Recieved: 25 February 2024, Accepted: 15 July 2024, Published: 12 September 2024

Dead and living leaves of Musa (banana) were collected from northern Thailand during the 2017–2021 investigation of microfungi. Thirty fresh collections of ascomycetous taxa from Dothideomycetes, Eurotiomycetes and Sordariomycetes, comprising eight subclasses, ten orders, 23 families and 28 genera, are illustrated in this study. Among them, three new species, 14 new host records and nine new geographical reports are included. The newly described species are Dematipyriforma terrestris (Pleurotheciaceae), Neohelicosporium terrestris (Tubeufiaceae) and Pyrenochaetopsis musae (Pyrenochaetopsidaceae). Eight fungal taxa, viz. Colletotrichum siamense (Glomerellaceae), Curvularia umbiliciformis (Pleosporaceae), Metulocladosporiella musae (Herpotrichiellaceae), Neocordana musae (Pyriculariaceae), Neopestalotiopsis clavispora, N. musae (Sporocadaceae), Phaeosphaeria oryzae (Phaeosphaeriaceae) and Pyrenochaetopsis musae (Pyrenochaetopsidaceae), associated with leaf spots are reported. Fifteen species, viz. Apiospora locuta-pollinis (Apiosporaceae), Bahusandhika indica (Lentimurisporaceae), Dematipyriforma terrestris (Pleurotheciaceae), Dendryphiella vinosa (Dictyosporiaceae), Dictyoarthrinium musae, D. thailandica (Didymosphaeriaceae), Gibellulopsis serrae (Plectosphaerellaceae), Lophiotrema hydei (Lophiotremataceae), Musicillium elettariae (Plectosphaerellaceae), Neohelicosporium terrestris (Tubeufiaceae), Nigrospora sphaerica (Apiosporaceae), Periconia echinochloae (Periconiaceae), Spegazzinia musae (Didymosphaeriaceae), Stachybotrys subcylindrosporus (Stachybotryaceae), Torula mackenziei (Torulaceae) are reported as saprobes. In addition, four species, viz. Albifimbria verrucaria (Stachybotryaceae), Musicillium tropicale (Plectosphaerellaceae), Pseudophaeocytostroma sacchari (Diaporthaceae) and Setoarthopyrenia chromolaenae (Roussoellaceae) are documented as endophytes. Four fungal taxa, viz. Albifimbria verrucaria (Stachybotryaceae), Corynespora torulosa (Corynesporascaceae), Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Botryosphaeriaceae) and Pseudopithomyces chartarum (Didymosphaeriaceae), are identified as exhibiting both endophytic and saprobic lifestyles on the leaves of Namwa banana (Musa acuminata × M. balbisiana; ABB genomic group; Pisang Awak). These findings further support the hypotheses of lifestyle transition in fungi on the same host. This is the first comprehensive study that combines the morphology and phylogeny of the systematics of leaf-occupying microfungi in Musa from northern Thailand. The current research particularly focuses on understanding the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of fungi in relation to Musa species. Furthermore, this study documents the global fungi associated with Musa hosts, and the findings are presented here as a checklist. A total of 760 fungal species associated with Musa are listed, along with their respective geographical localities, updated classifications, and literature. These taxa belong to four major phyla: Ascomycota is the most species-rich (93%), followed by Basidiomycota (6%), and Mucoromycota (1%). This compilation serves as a valuable resource for further research in the mycology and plant pathology of Musa.

 

Keywords: 3 new species – DNA sequences – endophytes – leaf spots – lifestyle change – molecular evidence – Musaceae – saprobes

 

18. A comprehensive overview of genera in Dothideomycetes

Authors: Pem D, Hyde KD, McKenzie EHC, Hongsanan S, Wanasinghe DN, Boonmee S, Darmostuk V, Bhat JD, Tian Q, Htet ZH, Senanayake IC, Niranjan M, Sarma VV, Doilom M, Dong W

Recieved: 16 February 2024, Accepted: 12 June 2024, Published: 13 September 2024

Dothideomycetes is the largest and most diverse fungal class of Ascomycota, comprising of about 20,000 species classified into 50 orders, 223 families and 1941 genera. Species in this class are characterised mainly by bitunicate asci with fissitunicate dehiscence and have different fungal lifestyles, including saprobic, pathogenic, endophytic, epiphytic, fungicolous, lichenicolous, lichenized and rock-inhabiting fungi. Since the last monograph of refined families of Dothideomycetes in 2020, numerous novel species, genera, families, and orders have been discovered. This has expanded information which has led to an increased knowledge in the classification of Dothideomycetes. In this paper, we provide a refined and updated documentation on 1941 generic types of Dothideomycetes as currently recognized. We accept ten orders with 30 families and 452 genera in Dothideomycetidae and four orders with 97 families and 739 genera in Pleosporomycetidae based on morphology and phylogeny. Thirty-six orders containing 59 families, and 390 genera are referred to as orders incertae sedis, and 40 families comprising 93 genera as families incertae sedis due to a lack of molecular or morphological evidence. We list ten taxa that are transferred to other classes and provide short notes based on recent publications. Reference specimens for Melaspileella proximella, Yoshinagaia quercus and Yoshinagella japonica and one epitype for Saccothecium sepincola are provided in this paper.

Keywords: Ascomycetes – biochemical importance – bitunicate – diversity – ecosystem – families – fissitunicate – GenBank – generic types – genus – herbarium – industrial relevance – morphology – orders – quarantine – species – subclass – taxonomy

 

19. Taxonomy and phylogeny of Colletotrichum on important forest plants in China

Authors: Sui XN, Guo MJ, Wang QT, Wang HQ, Zhou H, Huang XB, Yu ZF, Hou CL

Recieved: 05 February 2024, Accepted: 26 July 2024, Published: 17 September 2024

Colletotrichum spp. are well-known and highly significant plant pathogenic fungi worldwide. It is widely distributed across tropical, subtropical and temperate regions, where it causes the anthracnose disease in various forest plants. This devastating fungal infection results in detrimental consequences such as defoliation, fruit drop, branch dieback and in severe cases, even plant mortality. In this study, morphological characteristics combined with multi-gene phylogenetic (ITS, act, gapdh, chs-1, his3, tub2, sod2, cal, apmat, and gs) analyses were used to study 169 Colletotrichum strains isolated from 972 forest plants specimens collected in 12 provinces of China. The results revealed the presence of 23 distinct species, which include eight new species, i.e. C. cunninghamiae, C. guiyangense, C. hubeiense, C. jixiense, C. lunanense, C. parthenocissigenum, C. subplurivorum, and C. wenzhouense, one new record from China, and 14 known species, among them, 11 host species were reported for the first time. Furthermore, there are seven species reduced to synomymies in this study, i.e C. spicati and C. celtidis are reduced to synomymies under C. karsti, C. citrulli is reduced under C. gloeosporioides, C. analogum under C. camelliae, C. mengyinense under C. fructicola, C. yulongense under C. henanense, and C. simulanticitri under C. nymphaeae. Pathogenicity tests were conducted, revealing that the newly discovered species C. luanense, along with C. aenigma, C. gloeosporioides, and C. siamense, there are recorded on the new host plants, exhibited high rates of infestation and infectivity across various hosts. Contrarily, C. pseudomajus was exclusively isolated from branches of Camellia sinensis, demonstrating a remarkable host-specificity. The comparative genomics analysis revealed that C. pseudomajus possesses two specific carbohydrases, GT61 and AA14, which may explain its organ-specificity towards Camellia sinensis branches. This study provides valuable insights into the diversity of Colletotrichum species affecting forest plants, laying the foundation for effective control strategies against forest anthracnose.

Keywords: Anthracnose – Carbohydrate-enzyme analysis – Morphology – Multi-locus phylogeny

 

20. Longistipes gen. nov. and four novel species of Hyphodiscaceae along with six new collections of Leotiomycetes in Yunnan Province, China

Authors: Li CJY, Chethana KWT, Eungwanichayapant PD, Luo L, Yang ZL, Dong WJ, Guo YY, Liu CH, Alotibi F, Hyde KD, Zhao Q

Recieved: 14 June 2024, Accepted: 13 August 2024, Published: 18 October 2024

During the investigation of discomycetes in Yunnan, China, ten saprotrophic species were discovered on fallen leaves and decaying wood. Among them, four species were identified as new species within Hyphodiscaceae based on phylogenetic analyses of the combined LSU and ITS datasets and morphological evidence. Longistipes is established as a new genus with two new species, L. albus and L. niger, typified by L. niger. This genus is distinguished by unique characteristics such as long stipes, white and long hairs, and broad lanceolate paraphyses that exceed the length of the asci. Additionally, two new species, Hyphopeziza macrospora and Hyphodiscus pseudotanii, are introduced. Three known species, Chalara bambusicola, Nagrajchalara neonawawii and Nagrajchalara yongnianii, are described for the first time in their sexual morphs, with C. bambusicola being reported for the first time on Gleditsia sp. Furthermore, Dicephalospora chiangraiensis is reported as a new geographical record from China, and new collections of Erioscyphella hainanensis and Lachnellula subtilissima are discovered in Yunnan Province. All described species are supported by detailed descriptions, illustrations, and multi-gene analyses.

Keywords: 5 new taxa – Helotiales – new geographical records – new sexual morphological records – one new genus

 

21. Bambusicolous mycopathogens in China with an update on taxonomic diversity, novel species, pathogenicity, and new insights

Authors: Yang CL, Xu XL, Zeng Q, Liu LJ, Liu F, Deng Y, Wang FH, Sun QR, Jeewon R, Hyde KD, Jayawardena RS, Mckenzie EHC, Wanasinghe DN, Liu YG, Xiao QG, Han S, Yang H, Li SJ, Liu L, Xie JL

Recieved: 02 July 2024, Accepted: 10 September 2024, Published: 21 October 2024

Bambusicolous fungi inhabit bamboo tissues and play vital roles in bamboo ecosystems, mostly composed of saprobes, epiphytes, pathogens, and endophytes. Each category of fungus plays a distinct role: saprobes aid in decomposition, endophytes and epiphytes enhance plant health by establishing biochemical defense barriers, while pathogens can cause harmful effects like abnormal growth or death, thereby significantly influencing the overall health and quality of bamboo forests. In China, there is a rich diversity of bambusicolous mycopathogens but the information is scattered across various literature. Therefore, there is a need to systematically consolidate and provide an updated list of bambusicolous mycopathogens. This paper presents a comprehensive taxonomic account of bambusicolous mycopathogens in China with the following objectives: 1) to describe new specimens collected from Sichuan Province based on morphology and multigene phylogeny; 2) to update our current knowledge on the biodiversity of mycopathogens from China; 3) to discuss further research directions or areas. We have systematically gathered taxonomic information from diverse literature sources, such as articles, monographs, taxonomic websites, and other materials, to identify and screen fungal species associated with various bamboo diseases, including culm base rot, culm/timber rot, culm/leaf rust, dieback, shoot blight, rhombic spot, branch blight, witch’s broom, tar spot, and leaf spot/blight. We have documented a total of 336 bambusicolous mycopathogens, providing additional details on host species, geographical distribution, disease type, epiphytology, and phylogenetic relationships based on DNA sequence data. The bambusicolous mycopathogens belong to 161 genera, 89 families, 41 orders, 11 classes and three phyla. Ascomycota (272 species, 133 genera), is predominant among these bambusicolous mycopathogens. Within this phylum, Sordariomycetes (159 species, 61 genera) have the most species, followed by Dothideomycetes (78 species, 50 genera), Eurotiomycetes (23 species, nine genera), Ascomycota genera incertae sedis (eight species, eight genera), Leotiomycetes (two species, two genera), Lecanoromycetes (one species, one genus), and Pezizomycetes (one species, one genus). Within the Basidiomycota (60 species, 25 genera), the majority of species (55%) are in Pucciniomycetes (33 species, five genera), followed by Agaricomycetes (25 species, 18 genera), Exobasidiomycetes (one species, one genus), and Ustilaginomycetes (one species, one genus). Only four species (three genera) in the Mucoromycota were recorded. The top five largest bambusicolous mycopathogenic orders include Hypocreales, Phyllachorales, Pleosporales, Pucciniales, and Xylariales, comprising 39, 39, 32, 30, and 22 species, respectively. The most species-rich genera are Phyllachora (33 species, Sordariomycetes), Puccinia (25 species, Pucciniomycetes), Fusarium (15 species, Sordariomycetes), Apiospora (12 species, Sordariomycetes), Colletotrichum (nine species, Sordariomycetes), Aspergillus (seven species, Eurotiomycetes), and Penicillium (seven species, Eurotiomycetes). In addition, our freshly collected specimens unveil 23 species across nine orders within four classes, including a new genus, 12 novel species, 11 previously unreported host associations, and seven new geographical records. These species are associated with diseases based on symptoms observed or based on previous studies reporting their potential pathogenicity. Future in vitro studies are needed to verify the pathogenic nature of these bambusicolous fungi via Koch’s postulates.

Keywords: 12 new taxa – Bambusicolous mycopathogens – Mycopathogenic classification – Phylogeny – Taxonomy

 

22. The revision of the taxonomic system of Lycoperdaceae

Authors: Li JX, Cao B, Phurbu D, He MQ, Zhu XY, Parra LA, Zhao RL

Recieved: 15 March 2024, Accepted: 09 September 2024, Published: 25 October 2024

The members of Lycoperdaceae, commonly known as puffballs, are widely distributed as saprotrophic fungi. The current taxonomic system of this family has been extensively debated, primarily due to conflicts between morphological based system and the phylogenetics one. In this study, we reconstructed a comprehensive phylogeny of Lycoperdaceae, represented by 96 species across 19 genera, using multiple gene sequences; internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large ribosomal subunit (nrLSU), the second largest RNA polymerase subunit (rpb2), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α). Additionally, we estimated the divergence times for each taxon, considering it as an additional criterion for taxonomic ranking. Based on updated phylogenetic results and examination of morphological characters, Lycoperdaceae is divided into a total of 19 genera, with a divergence time range of 26.7–75.5 Ma. This includes the identification of five new genera: Fuscospina, Leptocaulis, Lycoperdiscus, Pseudoperdon, and Sinoperdon. Four previously known Lycoperdon s.l. subgenera (Bovistella, Morganella, Utraria and Vascellum) and Bovista subg. Globaria were elevated to the generic level. Moreover, we proposed and described 22 new species and 25 new combinations from the genera Bovista, Calvatia, Globaria and Lycoperdon s.l. Simultaneously, morphological examination revealed key features, such as capillitium types and paracapillitium, which could potentially be informative to delineate species at the generic level. This study enhances the understanding of the phylogeny and evolution of Lycoperdaceae, bridging diversity gaps within Asia and contributing to the global species diversity of Lycoperdaceae.

Keywords: Divergence times – Lycoperdon – Phylogenetics – Puffball – Taxonomy

 

23. Oomycetes as biocontrol agents: unveiling their potential and mechanisms in plant disease control

Authors: Li Y, Ahmadi F, Wan S, Kariman K

Recieved: 20 March 2024, Accepted: 02 October 2024, Published: 04 November 2024

Plant disease outbreaks represent significant global food security and environmental sustainability challenges, resulting in reduced primary productivity, biodiversity, and critical food/feed shortages worldwide. The indiscriminate use of synthetic fungicides has already caused substantial harm to human health and ecosystems. Certain human diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and autism, have risen dramatically over the past decades, a trend partially attributed to the use/overuse of fungicides in modern agriculture and horticulture. Given these alarming signs, it should be time to reconsider plant disease management strategies. The use of certain beneficial microorganisms, referred to as biological control agents, holds promise as an eco-friendly approach to combating plant pathogens. Oomycetes are often cast as the bad guys in the plant world, causing chaos through destructive diseases like late blight, damping off, and dieback, which might have catastrophic consequences such as the Irish potato famine. However, not all oomycetes are harmful! Some are good guys in disguise, showing promising potential to help us fight plant diseases, acting as effective biological control agents. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of biocontrol oomycetes is crucial for achieving desirable outcomes and developing innovative strategies. The biocontrol mechanisms of oomycetes can be categorized into five classes: i) mycoparasitism, ii) exudation of lytic enzymes, iii) competition with pathogens over nutrients and space, iv) induced systemic resistance (ISR), and v) production of injection cells (gun cells). This review elucidates the biocontrol mechanisms employed by oomycetes, highlighting their potential practical implications as well as their positive impact on plant growth. Edaphic and environmental factors influencing the efficacy of biocontrol oomycetes are also discussed, alongside diverse strategies aimed at enhancing their biocontrol efficiency or broadening the spectrum of target pathogens. Despite advancements in understanding biocontrol oomycetes, their commercial application faces challenges due to inconsistent field performance influenced by environmental conditions, soil types, inoculum viability, competing microorganisms. Enhancing biocontrol oomycetes efficacy through the development of stable formulations, genetic modification, synthetic biology, combining multiple strains, and integrating with other agronomic practices can help overcome these challenges and promote their adoption in sustainable agriculture. Performing comprehensive risk assessments to avoid non-target effects, and streamlining regulatory approval processes are also crucial. Understanding how biocontrol oomycetes counteract plant pathogens will improve our fundamental knowledge of interactions between beneficial and harmful microbes, enhance our ability to predict plant disease development dynamics influenced by oomycetes-pathogen interactions, and facilitate the development of new tools for plant disease management with minimal environmental footprint.

Keywords: Biocontrol – induced systemic resistance – lytic enzymes – mycoparasitism – Oomycetes – sustainable agriculture

 

24. Bambusicolous Fungi from Southwestern China

Authors: Yu XD, Zhang SN, Liang XD, Zhu JT, Hyde KD, Liu JK

Recieved: 21 July 2024, Accepted: 28 October 2024, Published: 14 November 2024

During an ongoing investigation of bambusicolous ascomycetous fungi in southwestern China, a diverse range of asexual and sexual morphs of saprobic fungi were collected from freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Based on detailed morphological comparisons and multi-gene phylogenetic studies, we introduce one new family, Neodictyosporiaceae, along with seven new genera, viz. Aculeatosporella, Antebambusa, Ascosichuania, Flavosporella, Multiseptoconidium, Nigroconidius and Sichuanomyces, and describe 29 new species, viz. Aculeatosporella bambusae, Antebambusa sichuanensis, Ascosichuania bambusicola, A. fusiformis, Bambusicola meishanensis, Conioscypha muchuanensis, Conlarium bambusae, Dictyosporella bambusicola, Distoseptispora chengduensis, D. muchuanensis, Flavosporella bambusae, Hongkongmyces sichuanensis, Multiseptoconidium fuscosporellum, Neodictyosporium bambusae, N. cheirosporum, N. sexuale, N. sichuanense, Nigroconidius bambusae, N. septatus, Pseudosetoseptoria bambusae, Periconia muchuanensis, P. sichuanensis, Roussoella aseptata, R. saprophytica, R. striata, R. terricola, Sichuanomyces bambusicola, Triplosphaeria bambusicola and T. fusiformis. Furthermore, we report 16 new records, including asexual morph, sexual morph, geographical, habitat and host, they are Acrodictys pyriformis, Distoseptispora aquamyces, D. atroviridis, D. dehongensis,
D. euseptata, D. meilingensis, D. suoluoensis, D. yongxiuensis, Neoaquastroma cylindricum, Neodeightonia subglobosa, Neoheleiosa guizhouensis, Nigrograna magnoliae, Pleopunctum ellipsoideum, P. pseudoellipsoideum, Pseudopolyplosphaeria guizhouensis and Sporidesmium chiangmaiense. Detailed, illustrated descriptions and notes for each taxon are provided, along with a brief note for each genus and family.

Keywords: 37 new taxa – Dothideomycetes – multi-gene – Phylogeny – Sordariomycetes – Taxonomy

 

25. The 2024 Outline of Fungi and fungus-like taxa

Authors: Hyde KD, Noorabadi MT, Thiyagaraja V, He MQ, Johnston PR, Wijesinghe SN, Armand A, Biketova AY, Chethana KWT, Erdoğdu M, Ge ZW, Groenewald JZ, Hongsanan S, Kušan I, Leontyev DV, Li DW, Lin CG, Liu NG, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Matočec N, May TW, McKenzie EHC, Mešić A, Perera RH, Phukhamsakda C, Piątek M, Samarakoon MC, Selcuk F, Senanayake IC, Tanney JB, Tian Q, Vizzini A, Wanasinghe DN, Wannasawang N, Wijayawardene NN, Zhao RL, Abdel-Wahab MA, Abdollahzadeh J, Abeywickrama PD, Abhinav, Absalan S, Acharya K, Afshari N, Afshan NS, Afzalinia S, Ahmadpour SA, Akulov O, Alizadeh A, Alizadeh M, Al-Sadi AM, Alves A, Alves VCS, Alves-Silva G, Antonín V, Aouali S, Aptroot A, Apurillo CCS, Arias RM, Asgari, B, Asghari R, Assis DMA, Assyov B, Atienza V, Aumentado HDR, Avasthi S, Azevedo E, Bakhshi M, Bao DF, Baral HO, Barata M, Barbosa KD, Barbosa RN, Barbosa FR, Baroncelli R, Barreto GG, Baschien C, Bennett RM, Bera I, Bezerra JDP, Bhunjun CS, Bianchinotti MV, Błaszkowski J, Boekhout T, Bonito GM, Boonmee S, Boonyuen N, Bortnikov FM, Bregant C, Bundhun D, Burgaud G, Buyck B, Caeiro MF, Cabarroi-Hernández M, Cai M Feng, Cai L, Calabon MS, Calaça FJS, Callalli M, Câmara MPS, Cano-Lira J, Cao B, Carlavilla JR, Carvalho A, Carvalho TG, Castañeda-Ruiz RF, Catania MDV, Cazabonne J, Cedeño-Sanchez M, Chaharmiri-Dokhaharani S, Chaiwan N, Chakraborty N, Cheewankoon R, Chen C, Chen J, Chen Q, Chen YP, Chinaglia S, Coelho-Nascimento CC, Coleine C, Costa-Rezende DH, Cortés-Pérez A, Crouch, JA, Crous PW, Cruz RHSF, Czachura P, Damm U, Darmostuk V, Daroodi Z, Das K, Das K, Davoodian N, Davydov EA, da Silva GA, da Silva IR, da Silva RMF, da Silva Santos AC, Dai DQ, Dai YC, de Groot Michiel D, De Kesel A, De Lange R, de Medeiros EV, de Souza CFA, de Souza FA, dela Cruz TEE, Decock C, Delgado G, Denchev CM, Denchev TT, Deng YL, Dentinger BTM, Devadatha B, Dianese JC, Dima B, Doilom M, Dissanayake AJ, Dissanayake DMLS, Dissanayake LS, Diniz AG, Dolatabadi S, Dong JH, Dong W, Dong ZY, Drechsler-Santos ER, Druzhinina IS, Du TY, Dubey MK, Dutta AK, Elliott TF, Elshahed MS, Egidi E, Eisvand P, Fan L, Fan X, Fan XL, Fedosova AG, Ferro LO, Fiuza PO, Flakus A, W. Fonseca EO, Fryar SC, Gabaldón T, Gajanayake AJ, Gannibal PB, Gao F, García-Sánchez D, García-Sandoval R, Garrido-Benavent I, Garzoli L, Gasca-Pineda J, Gautam AK, Gené J, Ghobad-Nejhad M, Ghosh A, Giachini AJ, Gibertoni TB, Gentekaki E, Gmoshinskiy VI, Góes-Neto A, Gomdola D, Gorjón SP, Goto BT, Granados-Montero MM, Griffith GW, Groenewald M, Grossart H-P, Gu ZR, Gueidan C, Gunarathne A, Gunaseelan S, Guo SL, Gusmão LFP, Gutierrez AC, Guzmán-Dávalos L, Haelewaters D, Haituk H, Halling RE, He SC, Heredia G, Hernández-Restrepo M, Hosoya T, Hoog SD, Horak E, Hou CL, Houbraken J, Htet ZH, Huang SK, Huang WJ, Hurdeal VG, Hustad VP, Inácio CA, Janik P, Jayalal RGU, Jayasiri SC, Jayawardena RS, Jeewon R, Jerônimo GH, Jin J, Jones EBG, Joshi Y, Jurjević Ž, Justo A, Kakishima M, Kaliyaperumal M, Kang GP, Kang JC, Karimi O, Karunarathna SC, Karpov SA, Kezo K, Khalid AN, Khan MK, Khuna S, Khyaju S, Kirchmair M, Klawonn I, Kraisitudomsook N, Kukwa M, Kularathnage ND, Kumar S, Lachance MA, Lado C, Latha KPD, Lee HB, Leonardi M, Lestari AS, Li C, Li H. Li J, Li Q, Li Y, Li YC, Li YX, Liao CF, Lima JLR, Lima JMS, Lima NB, Lin L, Linaldeddu BT, Linn MM, Liu F, Liu JK, Liu JW, Liu S, Liu SL, Liu XF, Liu XY, Longcore JE, Luangharn T, Luangsa-ard JJ, Lu L, Lu YZ, Lumbsch HT, Luo L, Luo M, Luo ZL, Ma J, Madagammana AD, Madhushan A, Madrid H, Magurno F, Magyar D, Mahadevakumar S, Malosso E, Malysh JM, Mamarabadi M, Manawasinghe IS, Manfrino RG, Manimohan P, Mao N, Mapook A, Marchese P, Marasinghe DS, Mardones M, Marin-Felix Y, Masigol H, Mehrabi M, Mehrabi-Koushki M, Meiras-Ottoni A de, Melo RFR, Mendes-Alvarenga RL, Mendieta S, Meng QF, Menkis A, Menolli Jr N, Mikšík M, Miller SL, Moncada B, Moncalvo JM, Monteiro JS, Monteiro M, Mora-Montes HM, Moroz EL, Moura JC, Muhammad U, Mukhopadhyay S, Nagy GL, Najam ul Sehar A, Najafiniya M, Nanayakkara CM, Naseer A, Nascimento ECR, Nascimento SS, Neuhauser S, Neves MA, Niazi AR, Nie Yong, Nilsson RH, Nogueira PTS, Novozhilov YK, Noordeloos M, Norphanphoun C, Nuñez Otaño N, O’Donnell RP, Oehl F, Oliveira JA, Oliveira Junior I, Oliveira NVL, Oliveira PHF, Orihara T, Oset M, Pang KL, Papp V, Pathirana LS, Peintner U, Pem D, Pereira OL, Pérez-Moreno J, Pérez-Ortega S, Péter G, Pires-Zottarelli CLA, Phonemany M, Phongeun S, Pošta A, Prazeres JFSA, Quan Y, Quandt CA, Queiroz MB, Radek R, Rahnama K, Raj KNA, Rajeshkumar KC, Rajwar Soumyadeep, Ralaiveloarisoa AB, Rämä T, Ramírez-Cruz V, Rambold G, Rathnayaka AR, Raza M, Ren GC, Rinaldi AC, Rivas-Ferreiro M, Robledo GL, Ronikier A, Rossi W, Rusevska K, Ryberg M, Safi A, Salimi F, Salvador-Montoya CA, Samant B, Samaradiwakara NP, Sánchez-Castro I, Sandoval-Denis M, Santiago ALCMA, Santos ACDS, Santos LA dos, Sarma VV, Sarwar S. Savchenko A, Savchenko K, Saxena RK, Schoutteten N, Selbmann L, Ševčíková H, Sharma A, Shen HW, Shen YM, Shu YX, Silva HF, Silva-Filho AGS, Silva VSH, Simmons DR, Singh R, Sir EB, Sohrabi M, Souza FA, Souza-Motta CM, Sri-indrasutdhi V, Sruthi OP, Stadler M, Stemler J, Stephenson SL, Stoyneva-Gaertner MP, Strassert JFH, Stryjak-Bogacka M, Su H, Sun YR, Svantesson S, Sysouphanthong P, Takamatsu S, Tan TH, Tanaka K, Tang C, Tang X, Taylor JE, Taylor PWJ, Tennakoon DS, Thakshila SAD, Thambugala KM, Thamodini GK, Thilanga D, Thines M, Tiago PV, Tian XG, Tian WH, Tibpromma S, Tkalčec Z, Tokarev YS, Tomšovský M, Torruella G, Tsurykau A, Udayanga D, Ulukapı M, Untereiner WA, Usman M, Uzunov BA, Vadthanarat S, Valenzuela R, Van den Wyngaert S, Van Vooren N, Velez P, Verma RK, Vieira LC Vieira WAS, Vinzelj JM, Tang AMC, Walker A, Walker AK, Wang QM, Wang Y, Wang XY, Wang ZY, Wannathes N, Wartchow F, Weerakoon G, Wei DP, Wei X, White JF, Wijesundara DSA, Wisitrassameewong K, Worobiec G, Wu HX, Wu N, Xiong YR, Xu B, Xu JP, Xu R, Xu RF, Xu RJ, Yadav S, Yakovchenko LS, Yang HD, Yang X, Yang YH, Yang Y, Yang YY, Yoshioka R, Youssef Noha H, Yu FM, Yu ZF, Yuan LL, Yuan Q, Zabin DA, Zamora JC, Zapata CV, Zare R, Zeng M, Zeng XY, Zhang JF, Zhang JY, Zhang S, Zhang XC, Zhao CL, Zhao H, Zhao Q, Zhao H, Zhao HJ, Zhou HM, Zhu XY, Zmitrovich IV, Zucconi L, Zvyagina E

Recieved: 24 September 2024, Accepted: 11 November 2024, Published: 19 November 2024

With the simultaneous growth in interest from the mycological community to discover fungal species and classify them, there is also an important need to assemble all taxonomic information onto common platforms. Fungal classification is facing a rapidly evolving landscape and organizing genera into an appropriate taxonomic hierarchy is central to better structure a unified classification scheme and avoid incorrect taxonomic inferences. With this in mind, the Outlines of Fungi and fungus-like taxa (2020, 2022) were published as an open-source taxonomic scheme to assist mycologists to better understand the taxonomic position of species within the Fungal Kingdom as well as to improve the accuracy and consistency of our taxonomic language. In this paper, the third contribution to the series of Outline of Fungi and fungus-like taxa prepared by the Global Consortium for the Classification of Fungi and fungus-like taxa is published. The former is updated considering our previous reviews and the taxonomic changes based on recent taxonomic work. In addition, it is more comprehensive and derives more input and consensus from a larger number of mycologists worldwide. Apart from listing the position of a particular genus in a taxonomic level, nearly 1000 notes are provided for newly established genera and higher taxa introduced since 2022. The notes section emphasizes on recent findings with corresponding references, discusses background information to support the current taxonomic status and some controversial taxonomic issues are also highlighted. To elicit maximum taxonomic information, notes/taxa are linked to recognized databases such as Index Fungorum, Faces of Fungi, MycoBank and GenBank, Species Fungorum and others. A new feature includes links to Fungalpedia, offering notes in the Compendium of Fungi and fungus-like Organisms. When specific notes are not provided, links are available to webpages and relevant publications for genera or higher taxa to ease data accessibility. Following the recent synonymization of Caulochytriomycota under Chytridiomycota, with Caulochytriomycetes now classified as a class within the latter, based on formally described and currently accepted data, the Fungi comprises 19 Phyla, 83 classes, 1,220 families, 10,685 genera and ca 140,000 species. Of the genera, 39.5% are monotypic and this begs the question whether mycologists split genera unnecessarily or are we going to find other species in these genera as more parts of the world are surveyed? They are 433 speciose genera with more than 50 species. The document also highlights discussion of some important topics including number of genera categorized as incertae sedis status in higher level fungal classification. The number of species at the higher taxonomic level has always been a contentious issue especially when mycologists consider either a lumping or a splitting approach and herein we provide figures. Herein a summary of updates in the outline of Basidiomycota is provided with discussion on whether there are too many genera of Boletales, Ceratobasidiaceae, and speciose genera such as Colletotrichum. Specific case studies deal with Cortinarius, early diverging fungi, Glomeromycota, a diverse early divergent lineage of symbiotic fungi, Eurotiomycetes, marine fungi, Myxomycetes, Phyllosticta, Hymenochaetaceae and Polyporaceae and the longstanding practice of misapplying intercontinental conspecificity. The outline will aid to better stabilize fungal taxonomy and serves as a necessary tool for mycologists and other scientists interested in the classification of the Fungi. 

Keywords: classes – classification – families – genera – orders – phyla

 

26. A reappraisal of families within the order Magnaporthales and description of new endophytic taxa associated with Poaceae plants in China

Authors: Feng JW, Chen XY, Chen KY, Druzhinina IS, Voglmayr H, Crous PW, Kubicek CP, Zhang CL

Recieved: 13 August 2024, Accepted: 14 October 2024, Published: 27 November 2024

The order Magnaporthales belongs to the class Sordariomycetes within the phylum Ascomycota. Through phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenated multi-locus sequence alignment, five families have been successively introduced within Magnaporthales. This order comprises a diverse array of plant-pathogenic and endophytic fungi, most of which are associated with monocotyledons. However, there has been a lack of systematic exploration of the phylogeny and taxonomy of endophytic Magnaporthales fungi. This study conducted comprehensive phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses of Magnaporthales, incorporating a substantial number of newly isolated endophytic Magnaporthales taxa from Poaceae plants, one of the most diverse plant families globally. The multi-locus phylogenies revealed six well-supported main clades. One of these main clades, comprising Aquafiliformis, Muraeriata, and Plagiosphaera, was distinct from clusters comprising genera of Pyriculariaceae and Magnaporthaceae (excluding Aquafiliformis, Muraeriata, and Plagiosphaera). Phylogenomic analyses confirmed that the genus Aquafiliformis is sister to the cluster comprising genera of Pyriculariaceae and Magnaporthaceae (excluding Aquafiliformis). Consequently, we propose the introduction of a new family, Plagiosphaeraceae, to accommodate the genera Aquafiliformis, Muraeriata, and Plagiosphaera, in addition to the five previously defined families: Ceratosphaeriaceae, Pseudohalonectriaceae, Ophioceraceae, Pyriculariaceae, and Magnaporthaceae. Furthermore, the phylogenetic analysis of Magnaporthales unveiled significant endophytic taxonomic novelties associated with Poaceae plants in China, leading to the proposal of 11 new genera, and 24 new species within Ophioceraceae, Pyriculariaceae, and Magnaporthaceae. Additionally, two named species within Pyriculariaceae and Magnaporthaceae are transferred to two new genera and combinations. The previously invalid genus Falciphora and its type species, Falciphora oryzae, are also validated.

Keywords: 42 new taxa – endophytic fungi – phylogenomics – phylogeny – Plagiosphaeraceae

 

27. Unlocking nature’s pharmacy: diversity of medicinal properties and mycochemicals in the family Hymenochaetaceae (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota)

Authors: Ghobad-Nejhad M, Zhou LW, Tomšovský M, Angelini P, Cusumano G, Angeles Flores G, Venanzoni R, Wang XW, Chaharmiri-Dokhaharani S‬, Moridi Farimani M, Pärtel K, Dai YC, Wu F

Recieved: 24 May 2024, Accepted: 28 August 2024, Published: 04 December 2024

Hymenochaetaceae is a large and noteworthy family of macrobasidiomycetes predominantly growing on woody plants. Several Hymenochaetaceae members have a long history of recognition in traditional medicine and modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated their therapeutic properties. This review comprehensively surveys the studies on biological activities and mycochemical compounds reported from the Hymenochaetaceae species so far. There are 124 potential species from 27 genera in Hymenochaetaceae with at least one bioactive metabolite and/or biological property. A diverse range of metabolites were found (ca. 500 compounds) classified mainly into terpenoids, styrylpyrones, steroids, phenolics, polysaccharides, and other compounds. Numerous novel sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, steroids, and styrylpyrones have been isolated from the family. Medicinal properties cover a range of about 100 types of bioactivities, more predominantly antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. The role of Hymenochaetaceae members in aesthetic medicine is also discussed. Molecular phylogenetic reconstructions reveal that the medicinal species are distributed in 27 monophyletic clades, and 20 medicinal species are types of their respective genera (generic types). So far most of medicinal Hymenochaetaceae species are shown to be distributed in Asia, particularly in China. Considering the drawbacks imposed by improper characterization of Hymenochaetaceae isolates in biomedical studies, general recommendations are given with the aim of encouraging greater focus on accurately identifying the medicinal fungal species.

Keywords: Bioactive – Inonotus – medicinal mushrooms – Phellinus – taxonomy – wood-inhabiting basidiomycetes

 

28. Lignicolous freshwater fungi from China Ⅳ: Morphology and phylogeny reveal new species of Pleosporales from plateau lakes in Yunnan Province, China

Authors: Shen HW, Luo ZL, Bao DF, Luan S, Bhat DJ, Boonmee S, Wang WP, Su XJ, Li YX, Al-Otibi F, Lu YZ, Yang LQ, Hyde KD

Recieved: 07 June 2024, Accepted: 21 November 2024, Published: 09 December 2024

This paper is the fourth in a series focused on lignicolous freshwater fungi from China. Yunnan Province is one of the hotspots for fungal research in China, with particularly remarkable fungal diversity, but there is still a significant knowledge gap in our understanding of lignicolous freshwater fungi in lentic habitats (such as lakes and ponds) compared to lotic habitats. As part of our ongoing research on the diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in Yunnan plateau lakes, 35 collections of Pleosporales (Dothideomycetes) were collected and discovered. Based on morphological characteristics and multigene concatenation datasets, these collections were identified as 21 species, including 18 new species, viz., Aquimassariosphaeria aquatica, Astrosphaeriella yunnanensis, Beverwykella grandispora, Cryptocoryneum sinense, Floricola aquatica, Hermatomyces hongheensis, Hongkongmyces cylindricisporus, H. guttulatus, H. hongheensis, H. yunnanensis, Lindgomyces yunnanensis, Lolia fusiformispora, Periconia dujuanhuensis, P. hongheensis, P. yunnanensis, Pseudotetraploa aquatica, Roussoella dujuanhuensis and Triplosphaeria yunnanensis, one new geographical record for China, Setoseptoria phragmitis and two new records for freshwater habitats, Lonicericola qujingensis and Occultibambusa jonesii. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and notes are provided for these species. The genus Paralentithecium and the species P. aquaticum and P. suae are also validated here. The study increases the number of lignicolous freshwater fungi in Yunnan Plateau lakes and enhances our understanding of the freshwater fungal diversity in lentic freshwater habitats.

Keywords: 18 new species – Dothideomycetes – multi‑gene phylogeny – Plateau lakes – taxonomy

 

29. Lignicolous freshwater fungi from karst landscapes in Yunnan Province, China

Authors: Wang WP, Hyde KD, Bao DF, Wanasinghe DN, Lin CG, Shen HW, Lu YZ, Zhang ZQ, Su XJ, Li YX, Al-Otibi F, Yang LQ, Luo ZL

Recieved: 13 July 2024, Accepted: 07 November 2024, Published: 12 December 2024

Lignicolous freshwater fungi are an important ecological group that are involved in the material cycle and energy flow in freshwater ecosystems. They break down lignocellulose and soften submerged decaying wood, while their mycelium provides food for aquatic animals. This study explores the diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the karst landscapes of Yunnan Province, focusing on Bamei Town, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. Using both morphological examination and multi-gene analysis, this research identifies 14 new species, viz., Ascolacicola minispora, Dictyocheirospora appendiculata, Faiciphoriella hyalina, Kirschsteiniothelia distoseptata, K. longiconidiophora, Occultibambusa clavata, Ophioceras aseptatum, O. cylindrosporum, Pseudorobillarda multiguttulata, Sporidesmium filiforme, S. guttulatum, Tetraploa longiappendiculata, Thysanorea fusiformis, and Wongia flava alongside introducing four new combinations, viz., Ascolacicola coffeae (º Ascotaiwania coffeae), Ascol. mitriformis (º Ascot. mitriformis), Ascol. sawadae (º Ascot. sawadae), and Ascol. uniseptata (º Triadelphia uniseptata). The sexual morph characteristics of Faiciphoriella are also provided. Furthermore, the study reports on eight new geographical records for China and identifies four species encountered in freshwater habitats for the first time. This study through detailed morphological and DNA analyses to investigate the species diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in karst regions, which will help us understand the microfungal diversity and carry out conservation efforts in these unique ecosystems.

 

 

 

 

Keywords: 14 new taxa – aquatic mycology – Ascomycota – morphology – phylogeny – submerged wood – taxonomy

 

30. Identification and characterization of Albonectria, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora species associated with ornamental plants in Southern China

Authors: Zhang YX, Chen C, Nie LT, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Crous PW, Hyde KD, Xiang MM, Al-Otibi F, Manawasinghe IS

Recieved: 23 June 2024, Accepted: 25 November 2024, Published: 23 December 2024

Species belonging to Albonectria, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora are well-known destructive phytopathogens and are widely distributed worldwide. Although these genera have been well studied in recent years, fewer studies have focused on understanding the relationship between these fungi and ornamental plants in China, the largest producer of ornamental plants. The present study collected ornamental plant samples with disease symptoms from South China. In total, 77 fusarioid isolates were obtained from 25 ornamental plants representing 24 genera. These isolates were further identified using six gene regions: the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS), calmodulin (CaM), the RNA polymerase largest subunit (rpb1), the RNA polymerase second largest subunit (rpb2), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) and β-tubulin (tub2). Based on multi-gene phylogeny and morphology, 25 species were identified, including eight new species belonging to three genera, Albonectria, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora were identified. Among these, 19 species belonged to four Fusarium species complexes, viz., F. fujikuroi species complex, F. nisikadoi species complex, F. oxysporum species complex, and the F. tricinctum species complex. Here, we described five new Fusarium species, namely, F. anoectochili, F. cymbidii, F. dendrobii, F. dendranthematis, F. guangdongense, and one undefined species. In addition, five Neocosmospora species were identified, and two species N. guangdongensis and N. paphiopedili, were described as new. In addition, we described a new Albonectria species, A. schimae. Further, taxonomic updates in this study showed that Fusarium rosae-roxburghii should be reduced to synonymy with F. odoratissimum based on phylogenetic placements and morphological similarities. Our study also provides 23 new fungal-host associations from 15 fusarioid species. This study indicates a rich diversity of fusarium-like genera in ornamental plants in subtropical and tropical parts of China. Also, it provides a basic understanding of identifying common diseases caused by fusarioid fungi.

Keywords: 8 new taxa – 23 new host records – Albonectria – fusarioid – Fusarium – Nectriaceae – Neocosmospora – polyphasic analysis