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New insights into Cortinarius: Novel taxa from subtropical China

Summary

Scientists studying mushroom diversity in subtropical China have discovered and formally named several new species of Cortinarius mushrooms, a type that forms beneficial relationships with forest trees. By examining the mushrooms’ physical characteristics and analyzing their DNA, researchers identified one new section, six completely new species, and several other previously undescribed forms. These findings demonstrate that subtropical China harbors remarkable fungal diversity that is still largely unknown to science, and more species are likely waiting to be discovered in this region’s forests.

Background

Cortinarius is an important ectomycorrhizal genus with wide geographic distribution and diverse plant hosts. The genus remains poorly understood in subtropical regions of China despite high fungal diversity in these areas. Recent studies indicate over 1,000 new Cortinarius species exist that have not yet been formally described.

Objective

To extend knowledge of Cortinarius species diversity and taxonomy in subtropical China through description of new taxa supported by phylogenetic and morphological evidence. The study aimed to report one new section, six novel species, and additional new combinations and records from this region.

Results

One new section (Macroflavicapi), six novel species (C. lilacinicarpus, C. sinocalaisopus, C. sinosalor, C. vividus, C. macroflavicapus, C. tianbaoyanensis), one new name (C. orientisalor), one new combination (C. dryadicola), and one new record (C. illibatus) were described from subtropical China. All new taxa showed distinct monophyletic lineages with high phylogenetic support and characteristic morphological features.

Conclusion

This study significantly expands understanding of Cortinarius diversity in subtropical China, with detailed morphological descriptions and molecular phylogenetic support for all new taxa. The findings demonstrate the region’s high species specificity for Cortinarius and indicate continued discovery of novel taxa in understudied subtropical fungal communities.
  • Published in:Mycology,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Revision, Descriptive Study,
  • Source: 10.1080/21501203.2024.2434584, PMID: 40937131
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