Retiboletus (Boletaceae) in Northern Thailand: One Novel Species and Two First Records

Summary

This research describes a new species of mushroom found in Thailand and documents two other species found there for the first time. The study focuses on mushrooms in the genus Retiboletus, which are characterized by their unique yellow staining when handled and their network-like pattern on the stem. These mushrooms form important partnerships with certain trees in Thai forests, helping them obtain nutrients. Impacts on everyday life: – Contributes to our understanding of fungal biodiversity in Thailand – Helps mushroom enthusiasts and scientists accurately identify these species – Improves our knowledge of forest ecosystems and tree-fungal relationships – Provides baseline data for future conservation efforts – May lead to discovery of new bioactive compounds, as these mushrooms produce unique chemicals

Background

Retiboletus belongs in the Boletaceae family and differs from other genera by its usually reticulate stipe with a base darker than the apical region. The genus is characterized by basidiomata that do not stain blue after bruising like many other boletes, but rather yellow-orange to rusty brown. The mushrooms often stain fingers yellow on handling due to unique metabolites called retipolides found only in Retiboletus species.

Objective

To identify and characterize Retiboletus specimens collected in northern Thailand using morphological characters and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses.

Results

One new species, Retiboletus brevibasidiatus, was described and two species, R. fuscus and R. nigrogriseus, were reported for the first time from Thailand. R. brevibasidiatus is characterized by medium-sized basidiomata with dark blonde to clay pileus and densely reticulate stipe mostly on the upper part with pale yellow to chrome yellow basal mycelium. The species is distinguished by its shorter basidia compared to related species.

Conclusion

The study expanded the known diversity of Retiboletus in Thailand by describing one new species and documenting two first records. The color of basal mycelium, stipe context, and pileus were identified as useful characters for separating Retiboletus species. Biogeographical and ecological evidence like elevation may also be useful for species identification when morphological differences are limited.
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