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Species Diversity of Lycoperdaceae (Agaricales) in Israel, with Some Insights into the Phylogenetic Structure of the Family

Summary

This research explored the diversity and evolutionary relationships of puffball mushrooms in Israel, discovering six previously unknown species in the region. The study combined traditional microscopic examination with modern DNA analysis to better understand how these fungi are related to each other. This work is important for everyday life in several ways: • Helps mushroom enthusiasts and experts better identify potentially edible puffball species in Israel • Contributes to understanding biodiversity conservation in Middle Eastern ecosystems • Advances knowledge of fungi that have shown potential medicinal properties including anti-cancer effects • Improves our ability to track and monitor fungal species distributions as climate changes • Provides foundation for future research into useful compounds these fungi might produce

Background

The family Lycoperdaceae comprises species of Agaricales with an enclosed fruit body development and lack of a true stipe, incorporating ‘true puffballs’ like Lycoperdon, Bovista, Calvatia, and Disciseda genera. The size varies tremendously from tiny 3-9mm gasterocarps to giant specimens over 1 meter in diameter. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution in temperate, arid and tropical climates. Members have been used traditionally for religious, decorative, hemostatic and dietary purposes, with some species showing medicinal properties including anti-tumor activity.

Objective

To study the diversity of Lycoperdaceae in Israel and infer molecular phylogenetic relationships within the family, particularly within the genus Lycoperdon. The study aimed to examine macro- and micromorphological characteristics, resolve taxonomic questions, and reinforce identification of Israeli material through molecular methods.

Results

Fifteen species representing five genera were found in Israel. Six species were new additions to Israeli mycobiota: Apioperdon pyriforme, Bovista aestivalis, Calvatia candida, Lycoperdon decipiens, L. niveum, and L. perlatum. The molecular phylogenetic study recovered Lycoperdaceae as a monophyletic group with significant statistical support. Clades corresponding to the genera Apioperdon, Bovista, Calvatia, Disciseda and Lycoperdon were revealed, though their relationships and the monophyly of Lycoperdon remained questionable.

Conclusion

The study significantly expanded knowledge of Lycoperdaceae diversity in Israel by adding six new species records. The molecular analysis supported Lycoperdaceae as monophyletic but showed that phylogenetic relations within the family remain only partly resolved. The genus Lycoperdon likely represents a polyphyletic entity requiring broader morphological variability acceptance or reduction to type species. Future investigations will require multigene phylogenies for better resolution and statistical support.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic and Molecular Phylogenetic Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof9101038
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