The genus Gautieria (Gomphales) in Europe and the Mediterranean Basin: A morphological and phylogenetic taxonomic revision

Author: mycolabadmin
2023-05-12
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Summary

This research provides a comprehensive revision of truffle-like fungi belonging to the genus Gautieria in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Using both traditional morphological methods and modern DNA analysis, the scientists discovered many new species and clarified how these fungi are classified. The study revealed that most species form specific partnerships with certain trees and have particular soil preferences. Impacts on everyday life: – Helps forest managers better understand the fungal diversity in their ecosystems – Provides essential knowledge for conservation efforts of these important mycorrhizal fungi – Improves our understanding of how fungi adapt to different climatic conditions – Aids in the identification and mapping of valuable forest ecosystems – Contributes to our knowledge of underground fungal networks that support forest health

Background

The genus Gautieria consists of sequestrate (truffle-like) fungi characterized by having basidiomata that lack a true peridium, commonly with a surface of morchelloid appearance exposing external locules. The hymenophore has a coralloid development with large hollow locules radially arranged around a dendroid columella. The genus shows similarities with the coralloid genus Ramaria, especially in early development stages.

Objective

To clarify the systematics of the genus Gautieria in Europe based on molecular and morphological studies, along with chorological and ecological data. The study aimed to describe new taxa, clarify previously described species, and determine different sections and phylogenetic clades within the genus Gautieria while defining their distinctive morphological characters.

Results

The study revealed four well-supported sections within Gautieria: sect. Gautieria, sect. Hymenogastroides, sect. Glutinosiglebae, and sect. Parvicellae. A total of 28 taxa were differentiated, of which 21 are new to science. The research provided detailed descriptions, macro- and microphotographs, distribution maps, and extensive information on ecology, chorology and phylogeny for all taxa. Most species showed specific associations with certain host trees and soil types, with many exhibiting restricted geographic distributions particularly in the Mediterranean region.

Conclusion

The study significantly advanced the taxonomy of European Gautieria by establishing four major sections and describing numerous new species. The research demonstrated that most Gautieria taxa are associated with specific bioclimatic regions, vegetation types, mycorrhizal partners and soil types. The Mediterranean Basin was identified as particularly important for the evolution and diversification of the genus in Europe. The presence of a trichotomentocutis in several Mediterranean species was identified as a possible adaptation to regional climatic conditions.

Published in:Persoonia,
Study Type:Taxonomic Revision,
Source: 10.3767/persoonia.2023.50.03