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The genus Thaxterogaster (Cortinariaceae): phylogeny and species diversity in Western China

Summary

Researchers studied mushrooms of the genus Thaxterogaster, which are common fungi found in forests worldwide. This study focused on Western China and identified 15 different species in the region, including 8 species never before described by science. Using DNA analysis combined with traditional microscopy, the team created a family tree showing how these species are related to each other and provided a guide for identifying them.

Background

Thaxterogaster is the second largest genus in the family Cortinariaceae, comprising nearly two hundred species worldwide. However, the diversity of this genus in China remains largely unknown, with only a few species documented from East Asia and limited new species reports in recent years.

Objective

The study aims to update the phylogeny of Thaxterogaster and document the diversity of species in Western China by analyzing morphological evidence and phylogenetic inference of a five-locus dataset.

Results

The analysis identified 15 Thaxterogaster species present in China, including 8 newly described species (T. crassimultiformis, T. lavendulaceus, T. flavocapitatus, T. pallidopurpurascens, T. atricapitatus, T. cupreus, T. sordidus, T. alboparvus) and 1 species new to China (T. indopurpurascens). Two new combinations and taxonomic descriptions with a key to Western China species were provided.

Conclusion

The study significantly expands knowledge of Thaxterogaster diversity in Western China, revealing substantial species richness previously underestimated in the region. The phylogenetic framework and detailed taxonomic descriptions provide tools for future identification and study of these fungi in East Asian habitats.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2441178, PMID: 40937133
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