Updated Taxonomy of Chinese Craterellus (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales) with Three New Species Described
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 1/23/2025
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Summary
Scientists have discovered and described three new species of trumpet mushrooms (Craterellus) found in China. These mushrooms are valuable because they form helpful relationships with trees and have medicinal properties. By studying both the physical characteristics and DNA of 109 mushroom samples, researchers identified seventeen different Craterellus species in China, greatly expanding our understanding of this important group of edible fungi.
Background
Craterellus species are important fungi with mycorrhizal properties, medicinal value, and edibility. Despite extensive research on Craterellus in China, its taxonomy remains inadequately understood. The genus exhibits high species diversity with approximately 173 recognized species globally.
Objective
To present three newly described species of Craterellus (C. albimarginatus, C. involutus, and C. longitipes) identified through morphological and phylogenetic analyses, with the goal of refining the taxonomy of Chinese Craterellus and updating the species richness of the genus in China.
Results
Sixteen independent lineages were identified within Chinese species of Craterellus through molecular data analysis. Three new lineages (6, 8, and 14) were discovered and described as C. albimarginatus, C. involutus, and C. longitipes respectively. Seventeen species-level phylogenetic branches were revealed, with twelve previously described species and two remaining undescribed.
Conclusion
The study reveals seventeen accepted Craterellus species in China belonging to five subgenera. Three new species are formally described with morphological and molecular characteristics. The taxonomy of Chinese Craterellus has been significantly updated, clarifying previously confused taxonomic classifications in the genus.
- Published in:Life (Basel),
- Study Type:Taxonomic Study,
- Source: PMID: 40003566, DOI: 10.3390/life15020157