ITS – mycolab.ai

A multilocus phylogeny of Hericium (Hericiaceae, Russulales)

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Researchers conducted the first comprehensive genetic study of lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium species) using advanced DNA sequencing techniques. The study resolved long-standing confusion about different species and their relationships, while also describing a new species from western North America. These mushrooms are prized both as food and for traditional medicinal uses, particularly in Asia, and contain compounds with potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. Better identification of species will help both commercial cultivators and medical researchers work with the correct organisms.

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

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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.

Nannizziopsis arthrosporioides infection mimicking ophidiomycosis in ball pythons (Python regius)

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A wild-caught boa snake developed severe skin lesions caused by a fungus called Nannizziopsis arthrosporioides. Within a week, six ball pythons housed nearby developed similar skin infections. Using DNA testing and microscopy, researchers confirmed this was the first documented case of this fungus infecting snakes, demonstrating how quickly fungal infections can spread between animals in shared environments.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal four novel species of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae, Distoseptisporales) from southern China

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Scientists discovered four new species of fungi in the forests of southern China that live on dead plant material. These fungi, called Distoseptispora species, were identified using both microscopy and DNA analysis to confirm they are distinct from known species. The study adds to our understanding of fungal diversity in China and provides tools for identifying similar fungi in the future.

The genus Thaxterogaster (Cortinariaceae): phylogeny and species diversity in Western China

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Researchers have discovered and documented 15 species of Thaxterogaster mushrooms in Western China, including 8 entirely new species never before described by science. Using DNA analysis alongside traditional observation methods, they created a detailed family tree of these fungi and provided identification guides. This work significantly expands our understanding of mushroom diversity in Asia and demonstrates that China’s forests harbor much greater fungal diversity than previously known.

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel Bambusicolous fungi from Guizhou Province, China

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Researchers in Guizhou, China collected and studied fungi living on dead bamboo stems. They identified five fungal species belonging to the Bambusicolaceae family, including three completely new species previously unknown to science. By examining the fungi under microscopes and analyzing their DNA, scientists confirmed these new species and found that one previously known species had a new form never before documented. These findings help us better understand the diverse fungal communities that play important roles in breaking down bamboo and recycling nutrients in forest ecosystems.

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.

Three new species of Talaromyces sect. Talaromyces discovered in China

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Scientists in China discovered three new species of Talaromyces fungi in soil samples using a combination of physical observation and genetic analysis. These fungi are important because they help break down plant material, produce useful enzymes for industry, and create compounds with potential medical value. The research adds to our understanding of fungal diversity and demonstrates how traditional isolation methods remain crucial for discovering new microorganisms and their applications.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of Tubeufia (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from freshwater habitats in China

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Scientists in China discovered two new species of fungi (Tubeufia yanuodaensis and T. yinggelingensis) living in freshwater streams on decaying wood. By examining the fungi under microscopes and analyzing their genetic material, the researchers were able to distinguish these new species from previously known ones. This discovery adds to our understanding of fungi diversity in freshwater ecosystems and brings the total number of known Tubeufia species to 88.

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