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Two new Cordyceps-like species, Perennicordyceps zongqii sp. nov. (Polycephalomycetaceae) and Purpureocillium zongqii sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae), in Hypocreales from karst region of China

Summary

Scientists discovered two new types of specialized fungi in the karst regions of China that infect insects and live in soil. These fungi, named Perennicordyceps zongqii and Purpureocillium zongqii, were identified using genetic analysis and microscopic examination. The findings highlight how special cave and valley environments in karst regions support unique fungal species that haven’t been previously documented in these areas.

Background

Cordyceps-like fungi are diverse entomopathogenic organisms found predominantly in karst regions of southwestern China. While over 2000 species have been reported globally, only about 300 exist in China. Special karst habitats like Tiankeng and valleys have been underexplored for Cordyceps-like fungi diversity.

Objective

To identify and characterize two new Cordyceps-like fungal species isolated from infected insect larvae and soil samples collected from karst regions in Guizhou Province, China. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses were conducted to establish these new species.

Results

Two new species were identified: Perennicordyceps zongqii isolated from moth larvae in Mayao River Valley, and Purpureocillium zongqii isolated from soil in Monkey-Ear Tiankeng. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed these as distinct species within Polycephalomycetaceae and Ophiocordycipitaceae families respectively. Both species were differentiated from related species by morphological characteristics and genetic markers.

Conclusion

The discovery of these two new Cordyceps-like species represents the first documentation of Polycephalomycetaceae and Ophiocordycipitaceae families from Tiankeng and valley habitats. The findings highlight the need for further investigation of fungal diversity in special karst eco-environments and suggest these regions harbor unique fungal species worthy of conservation attention.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Description,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.110.135724, PMID: 39552615
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