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Two new species of Stilbochaeta (Chaetosphaeriaceae, Chaetosphaeriales) from freshwater and terrestrial habitats in China

Summary

Scientists discovered two previously unknown species of fungi called Stilbochaeta in China. They used DNA analysis and microscopic examination to confirm these were new species distinct from known fungi. One species was found in a freshwater stream, while the other was discovered on decaying wood in a forest. This discovery increases the known diversity of these small fungi and shows how important it is to study different ecosystems around the world.

Background

Stilbochaeta is a genus of hyphomycetous fungi within the family Chaetosphaeriaceae. Previous studies have described 12 species of Stilbochaeta distributed across multiple continents, with many species occurring in freshwater and terrestrial habitats. The genus requires molecular and morphological integration for accurate species identification.

Objective

To describe two new species of Stilbochaeta from freshwater and terrestrial substrates in China based on phylogenetic analyses of LSU and ITS rDNA sequences combined with detailed morphological comparisons.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses revealed two novel species within Stilbochaeta: S. guizhouensis (isolates GZCC 25-0001 and GZCC 25-0002) clustering with S. submersa, and S. hainanensis (isolates GZCC 25-0003 and GZCC 25-0004) forming a distinct lineage. S. guizhouensis is distinguished by longer conidiophores and larger conidiogenous cells compared to S. submersa, while S. hainanensis differs from related species by smaller conidia and longer conidiophores.

Conclusion

Two new Stilbochaeta species from China are formally described and recognized, increasing the known diversity of the genus to 14 species. The integration of molecular phylogenetic data with morphological characteristics is essential for accurate identification and classification of Stilbochaeta species. This study enhances understanding of fungal diversity in tropical and subtropical ecosystems.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.121.158160, PMID: 40895207
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