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The genus Clavariadelphus (Clavariadelphaceae, Gomphales) in China

Summary

This study identifies and describes Clavariadelphus fungi found in China, a type of club-shaped mushroom. Researchers examined 50 specimens and discovered eleven different species, including four new species never before described. They used DNA analysis, microscopy, and chemical tests to identify and distinguish between species. Some of these mushrooms are sold as edible in Chinese markets, making this research important for both scientific classification and food identification.

Background

Clavariadelphus is a genus of fungi in the order Gomphales, characterized by erect, club-shaped basidiomes. While the genus has been well-studied in Europe and North America with 24 species described, it has received limited attention in Asia, with only a few species previously reported from China.

Objective

To examine Clavariadelphus species in China using morphological analysis, molecular phylogenetic analyses of ITS data, and chemical reactions to better understand species diversity and provide a taxonomic key for identification.

Results

Eleven Clavariadelphus taxa were identified in China, including four previously known species, two new records for China, and four novel species. Phylogenetic analyses recovered 27 species with 11 from China. Chemical reactions revealed distinct patterns useful for species delimitation, with all Chinese species showing negative reactions to FeSO4, Melzer’s reagent, and ethanol.

Conclusion

The study significantly expands knowledge of Clavariadelphus diversity in China through integrative taxonomic approaches combining morphology, molecular data, and chemistry. A taxonomic key for identifying Clavariadelphus species in China is provided, facilitating future identification and research on this fungal genus.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.70.54149, PMID: 32821216
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