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

Summary

Researchers studying fungi in Yunnan Province, China discovered two new species of fungi (Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense) that grow on decaying wood in streams and lakes. They also found that a known fungal species, Sporidesmium tropicale, can grow on Yunnan pine trees, expanding its known host range. By combining traditional microscopy with modern DNA analysis, scientists confirmed the identity and evolutionary relationships of these fungi within the Sporidesmiaceae family.

Background

The family Sporidesmiaceae includes saprobic and mycoparasitic fungi commonly found on decaying wood and plant debris in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Recent molecular data has clarified the taxonomy of genera including Ellisembia and Sporidesmium. This study describes fungal diversity from freshwater habitats in Yunnan Province, China.

Objective

To identify and describe two new species of Hyphomycetes (Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense) and report a new host record for Sporidesmium tropicale from freshwater habitats in Yunnan Province. Taxa were identified using integrated morphological and phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU, ITS, and rpb2 DNA sequences.

Results

Two new species were identified and described: Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed their placement within distinct clades of Sporidesmiaceae. A new host record was established for Sporidesmium tropicale on Pinus yunnanensis. Morphological characteristics were comprehensively documented with illustrations for each taxon.

Conclusion

The discovery of two new fungal species and one new host record enhances understanding of fungal diversity in Yunnan Province. Integrated morphological and molecular approaches are essential for accurate taxonomy within Sporidesmiaceae. Further studies are needed to investigate ecological roles and distribution patterns of these fungi.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Descriptive Study, Taxonomy,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.121.162535, PMID: 40936728
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