taxonomy – mycolab.ai

A multilocus phylogeny of Hericium (Hericiaceae, Russulales)

mycolabadmin

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.

Diversity of macrofungi in southeast Xizang 1. The wood-decay fungi

mycolabadmin

Researchers surveyed wood-decay fungi in the forests of southeast Xizang and identified 558 different species, including one newly described species. This more than doubled the number of such fungi previously known from the region. Most species preferred either hardwood or softwood trees, and the fungi were classified as causing either white rot or brown rot. This study helps us understand the important decomposers that break down dead wood in China’s most biodiverse forest region.

Penicillium and Talaromyces diversity in cystic fibrosis patient sample and the description of a new species, Penicillium subluteum sp. nov.

mycolabadmin

Researchers studied fungal infections in Dutch cystic fibrosis patients and discovered a surprising variety of Penicillium and Talaromyces species living in their lungs. They identified 75 different fungal species total, including a previously unknown species named Penicillium subluteum. The study emphasizes that these fungi should no longer be dismissed as harmless contaminants, as they may play important roles in lung disease and need to be accurately identified for proper patient management.

Phylogenetic Analysis and Nutritional Evaluation of Laetiporus Species in Korea

mycolabadmin

Researchers in Korea identified that ‘chicken of the woods’ mushrooms growing in the region are actually two specific species: Laetiporus versisporus and Laetiporus cremeiporus, not the species previously thought. These mushrooms are nutritionally impressive, containing substantial protein (9-18% depending on species) and high levels of beneficial β-glucans (15-35%), making them promising candidates as sustainable meat alternatives and functional food ingredients.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

Ascoidea xinghuacunensis sp. nov., a novel ascomycetous yeast species from Xinghuacun Fenjiu old workshop, Shanxi province of China

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered a new type of yeast called Ascoidea xinghuacunensis from a traditional Chinese liquor-making workshop in Shanxi province. This yeast is special because it can tolerate higher temperatures (37°C) than other known yeasts of its type. The discovery is significant because it marks the first time this yeast genus has been found in China and the first time it has been identified in a liquor production environment.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

Human Activity Impacts on Macrofungal Diversity: A Case Study of Grazing in Subtropical Forests

mycolabadmin

When goats graze in forests, they change the environment through trampling, eating plants, and leaving droppings. This study found that goat grazing actually increased the variety of mushrooms and fungi in three types of subtropical forests in China over two years. However, while there were more types of fungi overall, the special fungi unique to specific regions became less common, suggesting grazing makes fungal communities more similar across different areas.

Penicillium psychrofluorescens sp. nov., a naturally autofluorescent Antarctic fungus

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered a new cold-loving fungus in Antarctic soil that glows remarkably bright under ultraviolet light. This fungus, named Penicillium psychrofluorescens, produces its own fluorescent chemicals and contains many genes for making novel medicinal compounds. Its unique characteristics suggest it could be valuable for developing new medicines and biotechnological applications.

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

mycolabadmin

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.

Research Keyword: taxonomy