LSU – 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.

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.

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.

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.

Two new species and a new host record of Hyphomycetes associated with decaying wood in Yunnan Province, China

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Scientists discovered two new types of fungi living on decaying wood in streams and lakes in Yunnan Province, China. These fungi, named Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense, were identified using both microscopic examination and DNA analysis. The researchers also found that another fungus species, Sporidesmium tropicale, can grow on pine trees, which is a new host record for this species.

Phlebiopsis friesii (Phanerochaetaceae, Polyporales), a New Record in Thailand and the First Preliminary Characterization of Its Potential in Mycelium Mats

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Researchers in Thailand discovered a mushroom species called Phlebiopsis friesii and found it could be used to create a sustainable leather alternative. By growing the mushroom mycelium (the thread-like root structure) in different nutrient broths and treating it with special chemicals, scientists created flexible, leather-like mats that could replace animal leather in fashion and manufacturing. This discovery offers an eco-friendly solution to reduce the environmental damage caused by traditional leather production.

Morphological and molecular identification of Schizophyllum commune causing storage bulb rot disease of Lanzhou edible lily in China and its biological characteristics

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Researchers in China identified Schizophyllum commune as a fungal pathogen causing rot in stored edible lily bulbs, marking the first report of this disease. The fungus was identified using microscopic examination and genetic sequencing, and was shown to cause 100% infection on lily bulbs. The study found that the fungus grows best at 30°C with high humidity and darkness, providing important information for controlling this storage disease that causes significant crop losses.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1781–1866

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Scientists have formally identified and described 86 new fungal species from around the world, collected from diverse environments ranging from soil and forest litter to plant leaves. Each species was carefully examined under the microscope and had its genetic code analyzed to confirm it was truly new to science. This research helps us better understand the incredible diversity of fungi on Earth and provides a reference guide for scientists studying these organisms in the future.

Research Keyword: LSU