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A New Genus Neotricholomopsis Gen. Nov and Description of Neotricholomopsis globispora Sp. Nov. (Phyllotopsidaceae, Agaricales) from Northwestern China Based on Phylogeny, Morphology, and Divergence Time

Summary

Scientists discovered a new type of mushroom in northwestern China’s coniferous forests and named it Neotricholomopsis globispora. Using DNA analysis and microscopic examination, they determined this mushroom belongs to a previously unknown genus within the Phyllotopsidaceae family. The mushroom is characterized by its nearly white to buff cap with coral-red scales and a distinctive ring-like zone on the stem. Based on genetic analysis, researchers estimated this mushroom genus first appeared roughly 229 million years ago during the late Triassic period.

Background

The family Phyllotopsidaceae includes several genera of fleshy basidiomycetes, with Tricholomopsis being a key genus of saprophytic fungi found primarily in coniferous forests. This study describes a new genus and species discovered during macrofungi diversity investigations in Gansu Province, northwestern China.

Objective

To describe and characterize five specimens collected from coniferous forests in northwestern China as a new genus and species based on phylogenetic analysis, morphological examination, and divergence time estimation. The study aims to establish the taxonomic placement and evolutionary history of this previously unreported taxon.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis showed the five specimens form an independent lineage within Phyllotopsidaceae, sister to Conoloma. Molecular clock analysis estimated the common ancestor of Neotricholomopsis emerged at 229.36 Mya (95% HPD: 129.63-343.08 Mya). The new genus and species were formally described with detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations.

Conclusion

Neotricholomopsis globispora is established as a new genus and species with globose to subglobose basidiospores and distinctive morphological features including fibrillose, depressed pileus with orange-red scales and white fibrillose annuli-form zone on stipe. The genus emerged in the late Triassic with species diversification occurring during the Eocene and Oligocene epochs.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description and Phylogenetic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof10110784, PMID: 39590703
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