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Catalogue of fungi in China 1. New taxa of plant-inhabiting fungi

Summary

Scientists in China have discovered 33 new types of fungi, including 2 entirely new genera and 18 previously unknown species. These fungi were found growing on dead wood, leaves, and plant materials across different regions of China. By combining detailed microscopic observations with DNA analysis, researchers confirmed these are genuinely new species distinct from known types. This work is part of an ongoing effort to catalog and document all the diverse fungi living in China’s varied landscapes.

Background

China possesses highly diverse landscapes and is believed to harbor incredibly high fungal diversity. Although Chinese mycologists have significantly contributed to fungal diversity research, new fungal taxa are typically reported slowly in single publications. A systematic series cataloguing new fungal taxa from China is needed to promptly report species and increase the significance of fungal discoveries.

Objective

To systematically report and describe new plant-inhabiting fungal taxa discovered across China. This first paper in the Catalogue of Fungi in China series focuses on establishing and documenting new fungal genera, species, and combinations from various plant substrates throughout the country.

Results

A total of 33 new taxa were described from China, including two new genera (Cremeoefibula and Nothopucciniastrum), 18 new species, and 13 new combinations. These taxa encompass corticioid fungi, agarics, jelly fungi, plant pathogens, aquatic fungi, and slime moulds. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic evidence supported the establishment and taxonomic placement of all new taxa.

Conclusion

The Catalogue of Fungi in China series successfully documents significant fungal diversity from China. The description of 33 new taxa demonstrates the importance of systematic cataloguing for recognizing and conserving fungal resources, with implications for evolutionary biology, ecology, conservation, and resource utilization of fungi.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description Study,
  • Source: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2316066; PMID: 40083404
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