This research provides the most comprehensive survey to date of Fusarium fungi in China. These fungi are important plant pathogens that can devastate crops and cause significant economic losses. The researchers discovered 12 new fungal species and documented 16 species not previously known from China. This expanded our understanding of fungal diversity in the region by nearly 24%. Impacts on everyday life: – Better identification of crop diseases can help farmers protect food production – Improved understanding of plant pathogens aids development of disease control strategies – Documentation of fungal diversity helps monitor emergence of new plant diseases – Knowledge of pathogen distribution assists quarantine and trade decisions – Taxonomic clarity enables more accurate diagnosis and treatment of fungal infections