DNA barcoding – mycolab.ai

Global species diversity and distribution of the psychedelic fungal genus Panaeolus

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This study is a comprehensive catalog of 77 Panaeolus mushroom species worldwide, of which 20 are known to be hallucinogenic and contain psilocybin. Researchers found that these mushrooms are most commonly documented in Asia, South America, and Europe, but many regions have little to no research data. The review highlights significant gaps in our knowledge about where these species exist and which ones truly contain psychoactive compounds, information that is crucial as these fungi become legal in more countries for medical use.

Comparative Mitogenomics Provides Valuable Insights for the Phylogeny and New DNA Barcodes of Ganoderma

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Researchers successfully sequenced the mitochondrial genomes of four commonly cultivated medicinal mushroom species in the Ganoderma genus. They identified two specific genes, atp9 and nad4L, as reliable molecular barcodes that can accurately distinguish between different Ganoderma species. These DNA barcodes serve as a universal identification tool, similar to product barcodes in supermarkets, helping to identify and classify Ganoderma species for medicinal and commercial purposes.

DNA Authentication and Chemical Analysis of Psilocybe Mushrooms Reveal Widespread Misdeterminations in Fungaria and Inconsistencies in Metabolites

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Researchers examined museum specimens of magic mushrooms and found that many are mislabeled and don’t reliably contain the psychoactive compounds they should. The study shows that psilocybin breaks down unpredictably during storage, and these mushrooms contain thousands of unknown chemical compounds. These findings suggest that current regulations and our understanding of these mushrooms need significant updates.

Two New Species of the Genus Diderma (Physarales, Didymiaceae) in China with an Addition to the Distribution

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Scientists discovered two previously unknown species of slime molds (Diderma shaanxiense and Diderma clavatocolumellum) in China during biodiversity surveys. Using both microscopic observation and genetic analysis, they confirmed these are distinct species with unique characteristics. They also documented where two other known species were found in China for the first time. This research helps scientists better understand the diversity of slime molds in terrestrial ecosystems.

Hidden treasures of herbaria – even small collections contain a wealth of diversity: the powdery mildews of the North Carolina State Larry F. Grand Mycological Herbarium

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Scientists examined preserved powdery mildew samples stored in a university herbarium and discovered four previously unknown fungal species using DNA analysis. The study shows that even small museum collections contain valuable hidden biodiversity that cannot be discovered through visual examination alone. This research highlights why it is important to preserve and maintain herbarium collections rather than discard them due to space or funding constraints, as they serve as crucial resources for understanding fungal diversity and disease.

The Role of Community Science in DNA-Based Biodiversity Monitoring

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Scientists and the general public are working together to monitor biodiversity using DNA-based methods. These collaborations allow researchers to collect data across wider geographic areas and longer time periods than traditional monitoring alone. Community participants, especially hobby experts and nature enthusiasts, help collect samples and contribute to building the genetic reference databases needed to identify species. Recognition and training of volunteers enhances both data quality and participant satisfaction.

Morphological and phylogenetic evidence reveals three new arthropod-associated species of Hypocreales (Clavicipitaceae, Bionectriaceae, and Myrotheciomycetaceae) from karst habitats in Guizhou, China

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Scientists discovered three new species of fungi living on arthropods (insects and spiders) in the karst limestone regions of Guizhou, China. These fungi were identified using both traditional microscopy and modern DNA analysis. The findings add to our understanding of fungal diversity in these unique and threatened ecosystems, and researchers also determined that two previously separated fungal genera should actually be classified as one.

Emergence of Fusarium incarnatum and Fusarium avenaceum in wilt affected solanaceous crops of the Northern Himalayas

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Researchers in Kashmir identified two fungal species, Fusarium incarnatum and Fusarium avenaceum, causing wilt disease in important vegetable crops like tomatoes, brinjals, and chili peppers. These pathogens cause yellowing of leaves, wilting, and death of plants, resulting in significant crop losses. This is the first time these particular fungi have been confirmed as wilt pathogens in these vegetables in India. The study emphasizes the need for better management strategies to protect these crops from fungal infections.

Barcode high-resolution melting (Bar-HRM) analysis to authenticate true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) from its adulterants and contaminants

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This study developed a rapid and cost-effective DNA test to verify that cinnamon products are authentic true cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon) rather than cheaper substitutes. The test uses DNA barcoding and melting curve analysis to distinguish true cinnamon from three common adulterants and can also detect contamination with a toxic fungus. The method is particularly useful for processed cinnamon products like powder where traditional identification methods don’t work, helping protect consumers and maintain market integrity for authentic Sri Lankan cinnamon.

Two new species of Penicillium (Eurotiales, Aspergillaceae) from China based on morphological and molecular analyses

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Scientists in China discovered and formally described two new species of Penicillium fungi: P. lentum and P. tibetense. These fungi were identified using a combination of physical characteristics and genetic analysis. P. lentum grows slowly with dense colonies and produces a specific branching pattern, while P. tibetense grows rapidly with a different branching structure. This discovery adds to our understanding of fungal diversity in China and demonstrates the importance of using modern molecular methods alongside traditional microscopy in identifying new fungal species.

Research Keyword: DNA barcoding