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Two new species and a new host record of Hyphomycetes associated with decaying wood in Yunnan Province, China

Summary

Scientists discovered two previously unknown fungal species and found an existing species on a new plant host in Yunnan Province, China. These fungi, belonging to the Sporidesmiaceae family, were found on decaying wood in freshwater environments. The researchers used both traditional microscopy and modern DNA analysis to identify and describe these organisms, adding to our knowledge of fungal diversity in this region.

Background

The Sporidesmiaceae family contains saprobic and mycoparasitic fungi found in decaying wood and plant debris in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Recent molecular studies have clarified the taxonomy of genera like Ellisembia and Sporidesmium within this family. Research on fungal diversity in Yunnan Province, particularly in aquatic habitats, has revealed several novel taxa.

Objective

To introduce two new fungal species (Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense) and report a new host record for Sporidesmium tropicale from freshwater habitats in Yunnan Province, China. Identification was based on morphological characteristics integrated with phylogenetic analysis using LSU, ITS, and rpb2 DNA sequences.

Results

Two new species were identified: Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense, both characterized by distinct morphological and molecular features. A new host record was established for Sporidesmium tropicale on Pinus yunnanensis. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed placement of new species within respective generic clades with high statistical support values.

Conclusion

The discovery of two new species and one new host record enhances understanding of fungal diversity in Yunnan Province. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating morphological and molecular data for accurate taxonomy in Sporidesmiaceae. Further research is needed to investigate ecological roles and distribution patterns of these newly described taxa.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description and Molecular Phylogenetic Study,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.121.162535, PMID: 40936728
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