Scientists studying mushroom diversity in subtropical China have discovered and formally named several new species of Cortinarius mushrooms, a type that forms beneficial relationships with forest trees. By examining the mushrooms’ physical characteristics and analyzing their DNA, researchers identified one new section, six completely new species, and several other previously undescribed forms. These findings demonstrate that subtropical China harbors remarkable fungal diversity that is still largely unknown to science, and more species are likely waiting to be discovered in this region’s forests.