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Ten new species of Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus from Beijing: Revealing rich diversity in temperate regions

Summary

Researchers discovered ten new mushroom species belonging to Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus genera in Beijing’s parks and green spaces. These findings are surprising because these fungi are normally found in tropical regions, yet thrived in Beijing’s temperate climate. The study shows that urban parks, despite human activity, can be important habitats for fungal diversity and help scientists better understand these decomposer mushrooms.

Background

Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus are saprotrophic fungi in the family Agaricaceae, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. However, a comprehensive macrofungi survey in Beijing revealed unexpected rich diversity of these genera in a temperate urban region. This research demonstrates that urban habitats can serve as important biodiversity hotspots despite human disturbance.

Objective

To document and describe the Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus species found in Beijing through morphological examination and phylogenetic analysis. To expand understanding of these fungi’s distribution in temperate regions and clarify taxonomic and phylogenetic relationships within this complex group.

Results

The study identified 22 species total, including eight new Leucoagaricus species (La. bulbosus, La. centrobrunneolus, La. cinereibisporus, La. luteocanus, La. subcandidus, La. subnivalis, La. testaceumbonatus, and La. xantholepis) and two new Leucocoprinus species (Lc. beijingensis and Lc. digitatocystis). Additionally, three new combinations in Leucocoprinus were proposed and four Leucocoprinus names were reinstated.

Conclusion

This research significantly expands knowledge of Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus diversity, particularly in temperate regions. The rich species diversity found in Beijing’s urban green spaces indicates these heavily human-influenced environments can unexpectedly support high fungal biodiversity and serve as important conservation areas.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Study,
  • Source: 10.1080/21501203.2025.2457330, PMID: 41334514
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