This research examines tropical fungi that produce red pigments and grow on other fungi. The study found that tropical species previously thought to be the same as those found in temperate regions are actually distinct species. The findings help us better understand fungal diversity in tropical regions and how these species are distributed globally. Impacts on everyday life: – Improves our understanding of fungal biodiversity in tropical regions – Helps identify and classify fungi that could have potential applications in medicine or industry – Provides knowledge needed for conservation of tropical fungi – Aids in understanding host-parasite relationships in fungi – Contributes to knowledge of natural pigment production in fungi