Global diversity and systematics of Hymenochaetaceae with poroid hymenophore

Morphological and molecular analyses revealed four new wood-inhabiting fungal species (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) from Yunnan

Hymenochaetales is one of the fungal orders mainly composed of wood-inhabiting macrofungi within the class Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota. Four new Hymenochaetales wood-inhabiting fungi, Hymenochaetebannaensis, Lyomycesasiaticus, Peniophorellaalbohymenia, and P.punctata collected from China are proposed based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. H.bannaensis is distinguished by flocculent basidiomata with cinnamon to yellowish brown to rust-brown hymenial surface, generative hyphae with simple septa and broadly ellipsoid to globose basidiospores. L.asiaticus is characterized by the membranaceous basidiomata with white to cream hymenial surface with tuberculate, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. In addition, P.albohymenia is delimited by membranaceous basidiomata with white hymenial surface, four types of cystidia as stephanocyst, fusiform, cylindrical and capitate, and ellipsoid basidiospores. P.punctata is unique in the membranaceous, punctate basidiomata with white to pale yellow hymenial surface, fusiform cystidia, and allantoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers based on phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods.

Morphological and molecular identification for two new wood-inhabiting species of Botryobasidium (Basidiomycota) from China

The wood-inhabiting fungi refer to large basidiomycetes that grow on various woody materials and are distributed in various forest ecosystems, some of which have important economic value. In the present study, two new resupinate, adnate, wood-inhabiting fungal taxa, Botryobasidiumlatihyphum and B.zhejiangensis, are introduced based on morphological and molecular characteristics. A molecular phylogenetic study based on sequence data from the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nLSU) regions supported the two new species in the genus Botryobasidium. Maximum likelihood (ML), maximum parsimony (MP), and Bayesian inference (BIBI) were employed to perform phylogenetic analyses of these datasets. The new species B.latihyphum is characterized by its cream hymenial surface when fresh, olivaceous buff when dry, a monomitic hyphal system with clamp connections, the presence of clavate to tubular cystidia, basidia with six sterigmata, and broadly oval basidiospores measuring 7.9-10.2 × 3.2-4.3 μm. Botryobasidiumzhejiangensis sp. nov. is characterized by its white to buff-yellow hymenial surface when fresh, cream when dry, a monomitic hyphal system with clamp connections, lacking cystidia, basidia with six sterigmata, and broadly navicular basidiospores measuring 7.9-9.2 × 2.6-3.4 μm. The phylogenetic result inferred from ITS + nLSU sequence data revealed that B.latihyphum is closely related to B.vagum, B.laeve, B.subincanum, and B.incanum, while B.zhejiangensis is closely related to B.leptocystidiatum, B.subcoronatum, B.xizangense, and B.intertextum.

Paclobutrazol induces triterpenoid biosynthesis via downregulation of the negative transcriptional regulator SlMYB in Sanghuangporus lonicericola

Triterpenoids are well-known pharmacological components of Sanghuangporus fungi, such as Sanghuangporus lonicericola. This study investigates the inductive effects of paclobutrazol (PBZ) on triterpenoid biosynthesis in the submerged fermentation of S. lonicericola and explores the induction mechanisms via multi-omics and genetic methods. The addition of 100 mg/L PBZ significantly increases the triterpenoid yield by 151.39%. A total of 29 triterpenoids are tentatively identified, of which 18 are newly presented only under PBZ induction. Moreover, 30 genes involved in the MVA pathway and 31 genes encoding cytochrome P450 monooxygenases assumed to be responsible for decoration are identified. Finally, a MYB transcription factor (SlMYB) is identified and found to be downregulated under paclobutrazol induction. Genetic manipulation of SlMYB demonstrates its negative regulatory effect on four putative target genes, including ACAT, MVD, IDI, and FDPS. Electrophoretic mobility gel shift assays verify the direct interactions with the promoters of MVD, IDI, and FDPS. Taken together, PBZ acts as an effective inducer of triterpenoid biosynthesis in S. lonicericola, and the transcription factor SlMYB is negatively regulated.

FunVIP: Fungal Validation and Identification Pipeline based on phylogenetic analysis

The increase of sequence data in public nucleotide databases has made DNA sequence-based identification an indispensable tool for fungal identification. However, the large proportion of mislabeled sequence data in public databases leads to frequent misidentifications. Inaccurate identification is causing severe problems, especially for industrial and clinical fungi, and edible mushrooms. Existing species identification pipelines require separate validation of a dataset obtained from public databases containing mislabeled taxonomic identifications. To address this issue, we developed FunVIP, a fully automated phylogeny-based fungal validation and identification pipeline (https://github.com/Changwanseo/FunVIP). FunVIP employs phylogeny-based identification with validation, where the result is achievable only with a query, database, and a single command. FunVIP command comprises nine steps within a workflow: input management, sequence-set organization, alignment, trimming, concatenation, model selection, tree inference, tree interpretation, and report generation. Users may acquire identification results, phylogenetic tree evidence, and reports of conflicts and issues detected in multiple checkpoints during the analysis. The conflicting sample validation performance of FunVIP was demonstrated by re-iterating the manual revision of a fungal genus with a database with mislabeled sequences, Fuscoporia. We also compared the identification performance of FunVIP with BLAST and q2-feature-classifier with two mass double-revised fungal datasets, Sanghuangporus and Aspergillus section Terrei. Therefore, with its automatic validation ability and high identification performance, FunVIP proves to be a highly promising tool for achieving easy and accurate fungal identification.

Calcium-Induced Regulation of Sanghuangporus baumii Growth and the Biosynthesis of Its Triterpenoids

Sanghuangporus baumii, a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine, produces important pharmacological compounds such as triterpenoids, but at levels significantly lower than those required for medical use. This study investigated the effects of various concentrations of Ca2+ on S. baumii mycelial growth and the heterologous biosynthesis of S. baumii triterpenoids. Under induction by 10 mM Ca2+, the growth rate (0.39 cm/d) and biomass (4.48 g/L) of S. baumii mycelia were 1.03% and 10.05% higher than those in the 0 mM Ca2+-treatment group, respectively. In contrast, 200 mM Ca2+ significantly inhibited the growth rate and biomass of the mycelia. Notably, the total triterpenoid content reached its peak (17.71 mg/g) in the 200 mM Ca2+-treatment group, with a significant increase in the Ca2+ content (3869.97 µg/g) in the mycelia. Subsequently, the differential metabolic pathways and related genes between the S. baumii groups were examined using transcriptomic analysis. The results indicated that the increase in the growth rate and biomass of S. baumii mycelia was primarily due to elevated soluble sugar content, whereas the growth inhibition was associated with the toxic effects of H2O2. The observed differences in triterpenoid content were mainly attributed to the activation of the terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway and the AACT gene. Finally, the AACT gene was cloned and transformed into yeast cells, thus creating strain Sc-AA1. Upon treatment at the optimal Ca2+ concentration, the squalene content of strain Sc-AA1 reached 0.78 mg/g, 2.89-fold higher than that in the control group. These findings are significant for the heterologous biosynthesis of triterpenoids from S. baumii. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of producing triterpenoids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and provides a foundation for future optimization toward achieving industrially relevant yields.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal four new species in Hymenochaetales and one new species in Cantharellales from Southwestern China

Wood-decaying fungi represent a vital group of higher fungi that drive the cycling of matter and energy in forest ecosystems, and they have been the focus of thorough investigation. In this study, five new species, viz. Botryobasidiumdaweishanense, Inonotussubglobisporum, Kneiffiellabubalina, Xylodongranulanoides, and X.granulans from China, are described and illustrated based on the morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses, in which the sequences of ITS+nLSU genes were used for the phylogenetic analyses by maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogeny revealed that the Botryobasidiumdaweishanense groups with three taxa, viz., B.intertextum, B.leptocystidiatum, and B.subcoronatum. Inonotussubglobisporum is closely related to I.radiatus. Kneiffiellabubalina clustered sister to K.subalutacea. Xylodongranulanoides and X.granulans have a close relationship with X.bambusinus, X.fissuratus, X.subclavatus, X.montanus, and X.wenshanensis. Additionally, Xylodongranulanoides and X.granulans clustered together. Botryobasidiumdaweishanense is characterized by an araneose hymenial surface, fusiform, and cyanophilous basidiospores (6.1-7.3 × 3.3-3.9 μm). Inonotussubglobisporum is characterized by perennial basidiomata with lateral stipes, polygon pores measuring 4-6 per mm, and subglobose, cyanophilous basidiospores (3.6-4.3 × 2.8-3.5 μm). Kneiffiellabubalina is characterized by cream basidiomata and cylindrical to slightly allantoid basidiospores (8.0-8.9 × 1.8-2.3 μm). Xylodongranulanoides is characterized by grandinioid hymenial surfaces, various cystidia, and broadly ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores (4.7-5.3 × 3.6-4.1 μm). Xylodongranulans is characterized by grandinioid hymenial surfaces, capitate and clavate cystidia, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores (3.8-4.2 × 2.9-3.3 μm). Phylogenetic analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear large subunit RNA (nLSU) shows that the four species are members of Hymenochaetales, and one belongs to Cantharellales. All five new species are compared with morphologically and phylogenetically closely related species. The present study contributes to understanding the species diversity, taxonomy, and phylogeny of macrofungi in Southwestern China.

Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses reveal five new species of Hymenochaetales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) from southwestern China

Wood-inhabiting fungi can decompose wood materials and play a crucial role in the natural world by maintaining the equilibrium of the Earth's ecosystems. In the present study, five new wood-inhabiting fungal species belonging to the order Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaeteweishanensis, Lyomycesalbofarinaceus, Lyomycesalbomarginatus, Tubulicrinisalbobadius and Xylodonmusicola, collected from southern China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Hymenochaeteweishanensis is characterized by a coriaceous, tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae, and ellipsoid to narrow ellipsoid basidiospores (4.0-5.0 × 2.0-3.0 µm); Lyomycesalbofarinaceus is characterized by pruinose hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores (6.0-7.0 × 5.0-6.0 µm); Lyomycesalbomarginatus is characterized by the cracked hymenial surface, clamped generative hyphae, and elliposoid basidiospores (4.0-5.5 × 2.7-3.5 µm); Tubulicrinisalbobadius is characterized by an arachnoid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (4.0-6.0 × 1.5-2.2 µm) and Xylodonmusicola is characterized by an arachnoid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and broadly ellipsoid to globe basidiospores (4.0-5.5 × 3.5-5.0 µm). Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Full descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results for the five new species are provided.

Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy reveal two new genera and five new species in Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales) from Yunnan, Southwest China

In the present study, two new genera Paradonkia, and Neodonkiella, and five new species, viz. Paradonkiafarinacea, Neodonkiellayinjiangensis, Phanerochaetealbocremea, Phanerochaetefissurata, and Phanerochaetepunctata collected from southern China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Paradonkiafarinacea is characterized by the resupinate, membranaceous basidiomata with pale cream to gray cream hymenial surface and a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa and clamp connections; Neodonkiellayinjiangensis is characterized by soft coriaceous basidiomata, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5-5 × 2-2.5 µm); Phanerochaetealbocremea is characterized by resupinate basidiomata with white to a pale cream hymenial surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5-5 × 2-3 µm); Phanerochaetefissurata is characterized by gray-brown and cracked hymenial surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores (4-5.5 × 2-3 µm) and Phanerochaetepunctata is characterized by farinaceous basidiomata, a monomitic hyphal system, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogram based on the ITS+nLSUrDNA gene regions, revealed that two new genera, Paradonkia and Neodonkiella, belong to the family Phanerochaetaceae, and three new species belong to the genus Phanerochaete in the family Phanerochaetaceae.

Morphology and multigene phylogeny revealed four new species of Geastrum (Geastrales, Basidiomycota) from China

In the present study, four new species, Geastrumartocarpicola, G.fibulatum, G.sinense and G.trachelium collected from China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. Geastrumartocarpicola is characterized by shallowly saccate to deep saccate exoperidium, bubble-shaped to flask shaped basidia, spherical basidiospores. G.fibulatum is characterized by shallowly saccate to deep saccate exoperidium, spherical basidiospores, generative hyphae with clamp connections in the mycelium layer. G.sinense has arched exoperidium, long stipe expanded basidiomata, and spherical basidiospores. G.trachelium has deep saccate exoperidium, flask-shaped basidia, and spherical basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS), large subunit (nrLSU), the largest subunit of ribosomal polymerase II (RPB1), and subunit 6 of ATP synthase (ATP6) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated, and the phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. The results showed that our collection clustered within Geastrum but distinctly from the others. Full morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses results for the four new species are provided. In addition, G.sanglinense is treated as a synonym of beijingense.

Phylogeny and taxonomy of Nigroporus (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) with four new species from Asia and Oceania

Nigroporusvinosus (Berk.) Murrill, first described from North America, was considered to be a common species in China. The existence of a species complex is confirmed through a phylogenetic analysis of samples examined. Based on morphological examination and molecular evidence, four new species are described as Nigroporusaustralianus, N.austroasianus, N.subvinosus and N.yunnanensis. They are characterized by pileate, effused-reflexed to resupinate, purplish, vinaceous to brown basidiomata when fresh, mostly becoming brown when dry. Nigroporusaustralianus is characterized by narrower basidiospores measuring 3.4-4.1 × 1.3-1.5 µm, thicker contextual hyphae measuring 3.2-6.4 µm in diam and a geographical distribution in Australia. Nigroporusaustroasianus is characterized by smaller pores measuring 10-13 per mm, generative hyphae dominant in the tube trama, small basidiospores measuring 3-4.1 × 1.5-2 μm and a distribution in Malaysia and tropical to subtropical regions of China. Nigroporussubvinosus is characterized by skeletal hyphae with thin to slightly thick walls, barrel- to pear-shaped basidia, and long cystidioles measuring 10-18 µm and is common in Asia. Nigroporusyunnanensis is characterized by thinner pilei measuring 2.5 mm thick at the base, bigger basidiospores measuring 4-4.5 × 1.9-2.2 μm and is found only in Yunnan. The 2-gene (ITS+nLSU) analysis of the Steccherinaceae indicated that the four new species nested in the Nigroporus clade. The 3-gene (ITS+nLSU+TEF1) analysis of the genus Nigroporus showed that N.australianus formed a monophyletic lineage, N.subvinosus was sister to N.austroasianus and N.yunnanensis, and N.austroasianus was sister to N.yunnanensis. Furthermore, N.vinosus sensu stricto is also distributed in Asia.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal four new wood-inhabiting fungi of Asterostroma and Radulomyces (Basidiomycota) from Southwestern China

In the ecosystem, wood-inhabiting fungi play an indispensable role in wood degradation and the cycle of substances. They are regarded as the "key player" in the process of wood decomposition because of their ability to produce various enzymes that break down woody lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. In this study, four new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Asterostromaparamuscicola, Radulomycesbambusinus, R.fissuratus, and R.sinensis, were collected from southwestern China and were proposed based on the morphological and molecular evidence. Asterostromaparamuscicola is characterised by the felted-membranous to pellicular basidiomata with pinkish to slightly salmon-buff, a smooth hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system, and generative hyphae bearing simple-septate and subglobose, thin-walled, echinulate basidiospores measuring as 8-8.8 × 7-8 µm. Radulomycesbambusinus is characterised by the resupinate basidiomata with pinkish-white to pink, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and subglobose, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 6-7.5 × 5.5-7.3 µm. Radulomycesfissuratus is characterised by the coriaceous basidiomata with grey to grey-buff, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and globose, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 7-9.5 × 6.5-8.5 µm. Radulomycessinensis is characterised by the coriaceous basidiomata with straw to cinnamon to ocherous, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and broadly ellipsoid, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 7.5-9 × 6.2-7.5 µm. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (nrLSU) markers of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS+nrLSU nuclear RNA gene regions showed that four new species were assigned to the genera Asterostroma and Radulomyces. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences revealed that A.paramuscicola was closely associated with A.macrosporum and A.muscicola. Based on the ITS sequences, the topology showed that Radulomycesbambusinus was retrieved as a sister to R.zixishanensis. The taxon R.fissuratus forms a monophyletic lineage. The other one species, R.sinensis, was closely associated with R.molaris and R.yunnanensis.

Annotated Checklist of Poroid Hymenochaetoid Fungi in Central Asia: Taxonomic Diversity, Ecological Roles, and Potential Distribution Patterns

Central Asia, located at the heart of Eurasia, is renowned for its varied climate and vertical vegetative distribution, which support diverse biomes and position it as a global biodiversity hotspot. Despite this ecological richness, Central Asia's fungal diversity, particularly wood-inhabiting macrofungi, remains largely unexplored. This study investigates the diversity, ecological roles, and potential distribution of poroid Hymenochaetoid fungi in the region. By conducting field surveys, collecting basidiomes, and reviewing the literature and herbarium records from five Central Asian countries, we compiled a comprehensive checklist of these fungi. In total, 43 Hymenochaetoid species belonging to 18 genera were identified, with Inonotus, Phellinus, and Phylloporia being the most species-rich. Notably, Inonotus hispidus and Phellinus igniarius were found to be the most widespread species. These macrofungi play essential ecological roles as saprotrophs and pathogens of various identified host plant families, aiding in lignin degradation and exhibiting diverse enzymatic activities. For the first time, we modelled the potential distribution patterns of Hymenochaetoid fungi in Central Asia, revealing that their distribution is strongly influenced by host plant availability and temperature-related factors. The three most critical variables were host plant density, annual temperature range (Bio7), and mean temperature of the warmest quarter (Bio10). The distribution of suitable habitats is uneven, with highly suitable areas (4.52%) concentrated in the mountainous border regions between Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These results underscore the significance of specific environmental conditions for the growth and survival of Hymenochaetoid fungi in this region. Our findings highlight the urgent need for continued mycological and host plant research and expanded conservation initiatives to document and preserve macrofungal and botanical biodiversity in this under-explored area. In light of climate change, the collected mycological and botanical data provide a valuable reference for promoting forest health management globally.

Four new species of Phanerochaete (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from China

Four new wood-inhabiting fungi viz. Phanerochaetecastanea, P.citrinoalba, P.citrinorhizomorpha, and P.wuyiensis spp. nov. - are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Phanerochaetecastanea is characterized by soft coriaceous basidiomata detachable from the substrate, becoming reddish brown in KOH, subulate cystidia with an obtuse apex. Phanerochaetecitrinoalba is characterized by the coriaceous basidiomata with smooth, cracking hymenial surface, sterile margins with yellowish to whitish rhizomorphs, a monomitic hyphal system, generative hyphae mostly with simple septa and occasionally with clamp connections at basal hyphae. Phanerochaetecitrinorhizomorpha is characterized by soft coriaceous basidiomata with a salmon to peach hymenial surface, a sterile margin with yellowish rhizomorphs, simple septate generative hyphae, and clavate to subfusiform or subulate cystidia with an obtuse apex. Phanerochaetewuyiensis is characterized by membranaceous basidiomata with smooth or locally tuberculate hymenial surface and the whitish rhizomorphs, generative hyphae with both simple septa and clamp connections at basal hyphae, cystidia projecting above hymenium. DNA sequences of the ITS and LSU markers of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the concatenated ITS+nLSU dataset highlighted the placement of the four new species in the genus Phanerochaete (Phanerochaetaceae, Polyporales). Phylogenetically related and morphologically similar species to these four new species are discussed. Furthermore, an identification key to accepted species of Phanerochaete in China is given.

Species diversity, taxonomic classification and ecological habits of polypore fungi in China

Polypore fungi are an important part of forest ecosystems. In the last decade, the taxonomic status and species number of polypore fungi have changed greatly, and many new taxa have been discovered. China is one of the countries with the most abundant and diverse polypore fungi in the world, and a total of 1,214 polypore fungal species were reported here. This study lists the polypore fungi with their diversity, taxonomic status, habitats, geographical distributions, and molecular data. All the polypore fungi in China belong to the phylum Basidiomycota, subphylum Agaricomycotina, and class Agaricomycetes, including 11 orders, 55 families, and 266 genera. The orders Polyporales and Hymenochaetales are dominant, and the families Polyporaceae and Hymenochaetaceae are dominant. The overall distribution trend of polypore fungi in China shows that more species are distributed in the south and fewer are distributed in the north. In addition, different nutritional modes of polypore fungi have different preferences for host species, with white-rot fungi preferring angiosperm trees and brown-rot fungi preferring gymnosperm trees.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology of the genus Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) and reveal three new species of the F.ferrea group

Fuscoporia is a polypore genus of Hymenochaetaceae that causes wood decay, although some species in the genus have medicinal values. Phylogenetic analyses of concatenated ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-nLSU sequence data and morphological features identified three new species, F.eucalypticola, F.resupinata and F.subtropica from Australia, China and Malaysia, and these new species derived from the Fuscoporiaferrea group. These three species are illustrated and described. A key to resupinate species of Fuscoporia without mycelial setae in the world is provided.

Taxonomic study of Hydnoporia (Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) in East Asia with two new species

The genus Hydnoporia (Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) was first described by Murrill in 1907. However, species of Hydnoporia were subsequently reclassified into the genera Hymenochaete, Hymenochaetopsis, and Pseudochaete due to overlapping morphological characteristics, leading to multiple synonyms and confusion among researchers. Recent phylogenetic analyses based on multimarker datasets have clarified the diversity and relationships within Hydnoporia, but East Asian species remain underrepresented due to limited morphological data. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive morphological and phylogenetic analysis of East Asian Hydnoporia specimens using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) regions. From 42 specimens, we identified six species, including two novel species, Hydnoporiaorienticorrugata sp. nov. and Hydnoporiasubtabacina sp. nov., and we report Hydnoporiarimosa for the first time in Korea. Phylogenetic analyses also support the recombination of Hymenochaeteintricata and Hymenochaetopsisrigidula as Hydnoporiaintricata comb. nov. and Hydnoporiarigidula comb. nov., respectively. By elucidating the phylogenetic relationships and morphological traits of Hydnoporia species from East Asia, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the global diversity and phylogeny of the genus.

Phylogeny and species diversity of Armillaria in China based on morphological, mating test, and GCPSR criteria

More than 600 Chinese specimens of Armillaria were identified by mating tests, Genealogical Concordance Phylogenetic Species Recognition (GCPSR), and comparison of morphological characteristics. Sixteen Chinese Biological Species (CBS) of Armillaria were identified by 30,340 mate pair combinations. Fifteen Chinese Phylogenetic Species (CPS) were recognised based on Independent Evolutionary Lineage (IEL) recognition and concatenated six-gene analysis (actin, h3h, hisps, LSU rDNA, rpb1, and tef1α). All the biological species and phylogenetic species were identical and possessed the same species boundary, except for CBS K (A. mellea) and CBS G (A. mellea ssp. nipponica) which were the same phylogenetic species. On the basis of CBS and CPS, eight new species of Armillaria in China were distinguished using macro and micro morphology, and they are described as A. algida, A. amygdalispora, A. bruneocystidia, A. luteopileata, A. pungentisquamosa, A. sinensis, A. tibetica, and A. violacea. This study indicates that the GCPSR approach provides the same resolution as mating tests in identification of Armillaria species.

Spatiotemporal Pattern of a Macrofungal Genus Phylloporia (Basidiomycota) Revealing Its Adaptive Evolution in China

The understanding of distribution and the evolutionary scenario is crucial for the utilization and conservation of biological resources; nevertheless, such explorations rarely focus on macrofungi. The current study selects a macrofungal genus, Phylloporia, and explores its spatiotemporal pattern in China. A total of 117 available occurrence records of Phylloporia in China were summarized for the current analyses. Ensemble modeling supports the highly suitable habitat of Phylloporia concentrated in southern, especially southeastern, China, where the ancestor of Phylloporia originated 77.74 million years ago and then dispersed to other parts of China. Benefitting from the available suitable habitats, Phylloporia rapidly diversified after its divergence in Southeast China. Then, the net diversification rate slowed down when the rapidly diversifying species filled available niches in Southeast China and the dispersed species in other parts of China inhabited the less suitable and unsuitable habitats. During adaptive evolution, precipitation, temperature and the host plant are the major environmental variables that shape the spatiotemporal pattern of Phylloporia. In conclusion, the current study reveals the adaptive evolutionary scenario of Phylloporia and provides the first exploration of the spatiotemporal pattern of macrofungi.

Morphological and molecular identification for four new wood-inhabiting species of Lyomyces (Basidiomycota) from China

Fungi are one of the most diverse groups of organisms on Earth, in which the wood-inhabiting fungi play an important role in forest ecosystem processes and functions. Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Lyomyceshengduanensis, L.niveomarginatus, L.wumengshanensis and L.zhaotongensis, are proposed, based on morphological features and molecular evidence. Lyomyceshengduanensis differs in the brittle basidiomata with pruinose hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5-6 × 3-4.5 µm). Lyomycesniveomarginatus is distinguished by the subceraceous basidiomata with crackled hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (4.5-7 × 3-4 µm). Lyomyceswumengshanensis is distinguished by the grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid to broad ellipsoid basidiospores (4-6 × 3-5 µm). Lyomyceszhaotongensis is unique in the grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring as 2.6-3.5 × 2.5-3 µm. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, included three genera within the Schizoporaceae viz. Fasciodontia, Lyomyces and Xylodon, in which the four new species were grouped into Lyomyces. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences highlighted that L.hengduanensis group with L.zhaotongensis and then closely grouped with L.crustosus, L.ochraceoalbus, and L.vietnamensis. The new taxon L.niveomarginatus was retrieved as a sister to L.juniperi. The new species L.wumengshanensis was sister to L.macrosporus. The new taxon L.zhaotongensis grouped with L.hengduanensis and then closely grouped with L.crustosus, L.ochraceoalbus and L.vietnamensis.

Transcriptome and Metabolome Reveal Accumulation of Key Metabolites with Medicinal Properties of Phylloporia pulla

Phylloporia pulla, a macrofungal species in the Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota, is known to enhance the nutritional and bioactive properties of rice through co-fermentation; however, its own secondary metabolites are not well understood. In this study, an integrative analysis of transcriptome and metabolome data revealed that the accumulation of steroids, steroid derivatives, and triterpenoids in P. pulla peaks during the mid-growth stage, while the genes associated with these metabolites show higher expression levels from the early to mid-growth stages. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified several modules containing candidate genes involved in the synthesis of steroids, steroid derivatives, and triterpenoids. Specifically, six key hub genes were identified, along with their connectivity to other related genes, as potential catalysts in converting the precursor lanosterol to celastrol. This study enhances our understanding of the secondary metabolites of P. pulla and is essential for the selective utilization of these bioactive compounds.

Characterization of New Tropicoporus Species (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) Discovered in Tamil Nadu, India

This study aimed to investigate the morphological characteristics and phylogenetic relationships of three new species of Tropicoporus from the southern parts of India. The analyses of the ITS and nLSU regions revealed the novelty of these species, which have been named T. pannaensis, T. subindicus, and T. xerophyticus. All three species possess pileate basidiomes, a monomitic hyphal system in the context, and the presence of cystidioles and setae. However, they differ significantly in their phylogenetic placements and other morpho-taxonomic features. Tropicoporus pannaensis is characterized by a meagrely ungulate basidiome, indistinct zones, and an obtuse margin. Tropicoporus subindicus has a triquetrous basidiome and a radially cracked, crusted pileal surface with an acute margin, while T. xerophyticus is distinguished by an imbricate, perennial basidiome with an abundantly warted pileal surface. A phylogenetic tree is provided to show the placement of the three new species, along with detailed descriptions and illustrations. Additionally, a key for the identification of the Asian species of Tropicoporus is presented.

Structural Characterization, and Antioxidant, Hypoglycemic and Immunomodulatory Activity of Exopolysaccharide from Sanghuangporus sanghuang JM-1

Sanghuang as a medicinal fungus in China has a history of more than 2000 years, and is known as the "forest gold". Most notably, the polysaccharides of Sanghuangporus sp. have attracted widespread attention due to their significant bioactivity in recent years. At present, extensive studies are being carried out on the extraction methods, structural characterization, and activity evaluation of polysaccharides. Here, we aimed to evaluate the structure and bioactivity of LEPS-1, an exopolysaccharide derived from the S. sanghuang JM-1 strain. The structure was elucidated by chromatography/spectral methods and hydrolyzation, and the solubility, the antioxidant activity, hypoglycemic activity and immunomodulatory activity were investigated. Results showed that LEPS-1 contained a →2)-α-Manp(1→6)-α-Galp(1→[2)-α-Manp(1→]n→2,6)-α-Manp(1→6,2)-α-Manp(1→3)-α-Manp(1→ backbone substituted at the O-6 and O-2 positions with side chains. These two branching fragments were β-Manp(1→. The molecular weight of LEPS-1 is 36.131 kDa. The results of biological activity analysis suggested that LEPS-1 was easily soluble in water, with reducing capability and DPPH radical scavenging capability. Furthermore, the IC50 values of LEPS-1 against α-amylase and α-glucosidase were 0.96 mg/mL and 1.92 mg/mL. LEPS-1 stimulated RAW264.7 cells to release NO, TNF-α and IL-6 with no cytotoxicity, showing potent potential for immunomodulatory activity. These findings describe a potential natural exopolysaccharide with medicinal value and a basis for the development of S. sanghuang exopolysaccharides.

Morphological characters and molecular data reveal ten new forest macrofungi species from Hebei Province, North China

China has a complex and diverse forest ecological environment, which breeds abundant forest macrofungi, including some edible, medicinal, and poisonous species. During the investigations of macrofungi in the Saihanba National Nature Reserve, North China, we collected abundant specimens of Agaricales and Polyporales within the Agaricomycetes. Based on the morphological characters and molecular evidence of DNA sequences including the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, the large subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU), the small subunit of mitochondrial rRNA gene (mtSSU), the small subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nuSSU), the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB1), the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II gene (RPB2), the β-tubulin gene (TUB), and the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (TEF1), this study identifies ten species of Agaricales and Polyporales new to science, viz. Cyanosporus subpopuli, Gelatinofungus betulina, Lycoperdon pseudoperlatum, Macrocystidia hebeiensis, Mycena subbrunnea, M. subpura, M. variispora, M. violocea-ardesiaca, Picipes griseus, and Pleuroflammula hebeiensis. Detailed morphological descriptions, fruiting bodies, and microscopic structure diagrams of these ten novel species are provided.

Large-scale phylogenomic insights into the evolution of the Hymenochaetales

The Hymenochaetales is an order with most species as wood-inhabiting fungi that have high phylogenetic complexity and morphological diversity. Species in this order play important roles in forest ecosystems and include wood decomposers, pathogens, and those that form ectomycorrhizal associations. However, we have limited knowledge of the patterns of large-scale evolutionary history of the order. In this study, using 171 genomes, including 113 newly assembled, we reconstructed the phylogenomic relationships, divergence times, biogeographic patterns, morphological evolution of basidiomata, and patterns of speciation/extinction in the Hymenochaetales. The phylogenomic relationships of 12 families within the Hymenochaetales suggested that 10 families can be accepted, and 2 families rejected. Molecular clock dating analyses suggested that the Hymenochaetales possibly started a rapid family-wide and genus-wide radiation during the early Cretaceous to late Jurassic and Cretaceous, respectively. Reconstruction of the ancestral state implied that Hymenochaetales probably originated from the temperate regions of Asia, with the basidiomata of the common ancestor likely being a corticioid species that rapidly transformed between the early Cretaceous and late Jurassic, coinciding with radiations at the family level. Furthermore, we detected a gradually increasing trend of speciation, extinction, and net diversification rates. We provided large-scale genomes of the Hymenochaetales and revealed evolutionary history patterns, which are key to understanding the evolution of fungi.

Taxonomy and phylogeny of Auriculariales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) with descriptions of four new species from south-western China

The wood-inhabiting fungi play an integral role in wood degradation and the cycle of matter in the ecological system. They are considered as the "key player" in wood decomposition, because of their ability to produce lignocellulosic enzymes that break down woody lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose. In the present study, four new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Adustochaetealbomarginata, Ad.punctata, Alloexidiopsisgrandinea and Al.xantha collected from southern China, are proposed, based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Adustochaetealbomarginata is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream to buff, a smooth, cracked, hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (12-17.5 × 6.5-9 µm). Adustochaetepunctata is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream, a smooth, punctate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (13.5-18 × 6-8.2 µm). Alloexidiopsisgrandinea is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with buff to slightly yellowish, a grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and allantoid basidiospores (10-12.3 × 5-5.8 µm). Additionally, Alloexidiopsisxantha is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream to slightly buff, a smooth hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores measuring 20-24 × 5-6.2 µm. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed with the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, revealed that four new species were assigned to the genera Adustochaete and Alloexidiopsis within the order Auriculariales, individually. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences highlighted that Ad.albomarginata was retrieved as a sister to Ad.yunnanensis and the species Ad.punctata was sister to Ad.rava. The topology, based on the ITS sequences, showed that Al.grandinea was retrieved as a sister to Al.schistacea and the taxon Al.xantha formed a monophyletic lineage. Furthermore, two identification keys to Adustochaete and Alloexidiopsis worldwide are provided.

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

A survey on the diversity of wood-decay fungi in southeast Xizang was carried out from 2019 to 2023. Based on morphology, ecology, biogeography, and molecular biology, 558 species, belonging to three classes, 15 orders, 57 families, and 177 genera, were identified. One new species, Epithele miscanthi, is described. Species composition analysis showed that there were fifteen dominant families with more than 10 species. These families include 459 species, accounting for 82.26% of the total species found. Thirty-three genera with five or more species are treated as dominant genera, and 325 species were included in these genera, accounting for 58.24% of the total species. Among these, 313 species (56.09%) occurred on angiosperm wood only, 168 species (30.11%) on gymnosperm wood only, 45 species (8.06%) on both angiosperm and gymnosperm wood, 17 species (3.05%) on monocotyledons only, and only one species, Hymenochaete rheicolor, grew on both monocotyledons and dicotyledons. The highest number of species, 266 (47.67%), were found on fallen trunks, followed by fallen branches, rotten wood, stumps, dead standing trees, living trees, and charred wood with 175, 123, 116, 82, 57, and 4 species, respectively. In addition, 456 species cause a white rot and 85 species cause a brown rot, accounting for 81.72% and 15.23% of our studied species, respectively. Statistics were also made on the rotting type and the number of edible or medicinal fungi.

Three new species of Cyanosporus (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from China

Cyanosporus is a cosmopolitan genus characterized by effused-reflexed to pileate basidiomata with a bluish tint and allantoid to cylindrical basidiospores which are negative to weakly positive in Melzer's reagent and Cotton Blue, causing a brown rot. Three new species of Cyanosporus, namely, C.linzhiensis, C.miscanthi and C.tabuliformis are described and illustrated. Phylogenies on Cyanosporus are reconstructed with seven loci DNA sequences including ITS, nLSU, nSSU, mtSSU, RPB1, RPB2 and TEF1 based on phylogenetic analyses combined with morphological examination. The description for the new species is given. The main morphological characteristics of all 38 accepted species in Cyanosporus are summarized.

Taxonomic Re-Evaluation of the Genus Fuscoporia in the Republic of Korea Including Three Unrecorded Species

The genus Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetaceae, Basidiomycota) comprises poroid white-rot fungi characterized by dark brown hymenial setae, a dimitic hyphal system, and encrusted generative hyphae. Despite the ecological and commercial significance of Fuscoporia species, their identification has been challenging owing to their morphological overlap with other genera of Hymenochaetaceae and to the limited resolution of nuclear ribosomal DNA markers. With the advances in molecular research, Fuscoporia has been revised to include species from Inonotus sensu lato and Phellinus sensu lato, and 71 new species have been reported over the past decade. In Korea, a comprehensive taxonomic study elucidating the true diversity of Fuscoporia is yet to be conducted. Among the 11 Fuscoporia species reported in Korea, two were identified solely based on morphological characteristics, and four were identified based on nuclear ribosomal DNA regions, which have limited resolution for species identification in Fuscoporia. To investigate the current status of Fuscoporia species native to Korea, we conducted a phylogenetic study using four genetic markers (ITS + nrLSU + RPB2 + TEF1), along with morphological characteristics, and re-analyzed the GenBank records deposited from Korea. Ten Fuscoporia species were identified, including three previously unrecorded species. A detailed description of the unrecorded species and a list of proposed Korean names for all Fuscoporia species in Korea are provided. This study will guide further taxonomic and applied research of Fuscoporia by providing a species identification key and a verified multigenetic database, in addition to confirming the sequences in public database.

Morphology and multigene phylogeny revealed four new species of Xylodon (Schizoporaceae, Basidiomycota) from southern China

Fungi are one of the most diverse groups of organisms on Earth, amongst which wood-inhabiting fungi play a crucial role in ecosystem processes and functions. Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Xylodoncremeoparinaceus, X.luteodontioides, X.poroides and X.wumengshanensis are proposed, based on morphological features and molecular evidence. Xylodoncremeoparinaceus is distinguished by a cream hymenial surface with a pruinose hymenophore, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodonluteodontioides is characterised by flavescens hymenophore surface with odontioid hymenophore, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodonporoides bears coriaceous basidiomata with a poroid hymenophore surface, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodonwumengshanensis is a distinct taxon by its grandinoid hymenophore surface, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony, and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, included three genera within the Schizoporaceae as Fasciodontia, Lyomyces and Xylodon. The four new species were grouped into the genus Xylodon. The topology, based on the ITS sequences, revealed that Xylodoncremeoparinaceus was grouped closely with X.pruinosus, X.detriticus and X.ussuriensis. The taxon X.luteodontioides was sister to X.nesporii. The species X.poroides separated from X.pseudotropicus, while X.wumengshanensis was grouped with four taxa: X.patagonicus, X.radula, X.subtropicus and X.taiwanianus.

Protoilludene and Alkenoic Acid Derivatives from the European Polypore Fomitiporia hartigii

Chemical investigation of the solid-state rice culture of the endangered European polypore Fomitiporia hartigii (Hymenochaetaceae) afforded a previously undescribed protoilludene derivative (1) in addition to six known compounds (2-7). Chemical structures of the isolated compounds were established based on HR-ESI-MS, comprehensive 1D/2D NMR spectroscopic analyses, and comparisons with the literature. All isolated compounds were assessed for their cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities. Among the tested compounds, hymeglusin (3) revealed potent cytotoxic activity against all tested cell lines with IC50 values between 0.3 and 6.8 μM. Compound 3 and fusaridioic acid A (4) revealed weak to moderate antimicrobial activities with its most potent effect against Candida albicans (minimum inhibitory concentration of 4.2 μg/mL).

Optimization of polysaccharide conditions and analysis of antioxidant capacity in the co-culture of Sanghuangporus vaninii and Pleurotus sapidus

Fungal polysaccharides are commonly utilized in the food industry and biomedical fields as a natural and safe immune modulator. Co-culturing is a valuable method for enhancing the production of secondary metabolites. This study used intracellular polysaccharide (IPS) content as a screening index, co-culturing seven different fungi with Sanghuangporus vaninii. The seed pre-culture liquid culture time was selected through screening, and conditions were assessed using single factor experimentation, a Plackett-Burman (PB) design, and response surface methodology (RSM) optimization. RSM optimization was conducted, leading to the measurement of antioxidant capacity. Results indicated that the co-culture of S. vaninii and Pleurotus sapidus exhibited the most effective outcome. Specifically, pre-culturing S. vaninii and P. sapidus seed cultures for 2 days and 0 days, respectively, followed by co-culturing, significantly increased IPS content compared to single-strain culturing. Further optimization of co-culture conditions revealed that yeast extract concentration, liquid volume, and S. vaninii inoculum ratio notably influenced IPS content in the order of yeast extract concentration > liquid volume > S. vaninii inoculum ratio. Under the optimal conditions, IPS content reached 69.9626 mg/g, a 17.04% increase from pre-optimization co-culture conditions. Antioxidant capacity testing demonstrated that co-cultured IPS exhibited greater scavenging abilities for DPPH and ABTS free radicals compared to single strain cultures. These findings highlight the potential of co-culturing S. vaninii and P. sapidus to enhance IPS content and improve antioxidant capacity, presenting an effective strategy for increasing fungal polysaccharide production.

Fomes weberianus, 50 years of taxonomic confusion: lectotypification and taxonomic notes

Fomes weberianus Bres. & Henn. ex Sacc. is currently the basionym of two very distinct polypores (Basidiomycota), Ganoderma weberianum (Polyporales) and Phylloporia weberiana (Hymenochaetales). This fact has led to almost fifty years of taxonomic confusion. Fomes weberianus was first lectotypified by Steyaert, who accepted the species as G. weberianum. However, studies of Weber's original material in B, duplicate material in S, the protologue, and early interpretations of the name have shown that Steyaert's choice conflicts with the protologue and early interpretations, and that his interpretation as a species of Ganoderma is erroneous. A new lectotype was designated and the species was re-described under the correct interpretation Phylloporia weberiana.

Morphological and molecular identification for four new wood-inhabiting species of Trechispora (Basidiomycota) from China

Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Trechisporaalbofarinosa, T.bisterigmata, T.pileata and T.wenshanensisspp. nov., are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Trechisporaalbofarinosa is characterized by the farinose basidiomata with flocculence hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and ellipsoid, warted basidiospores. Trechisporabisterigmata is characterized by the membranous basidiomata with odontioid hymenial surface, rhizomorphic sterile margin, barrelled basidia and subglobose to broad ellipsoid, smooth basidiospores. Trechisporapileata is characterized by the laterally contracted base, solitary or imbricate basidiomata, fan shaped pileus, radially striate-covered surface with appressed scales, odontioid hymenophore surface, and subglobose to broad ellipsoid, thin-walled, smooth basidiospores. Trechisporawenshanensis is characterized by a cottony basidiomata with a smooth hymenial surface, and ellipsoid, thin-walled, warted basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and LSU marker of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS+nLSU sequences highlighted that four new species were grouped into the genus Trechispora.

Coltricia raigadensis (Hymenochaetaceae, Basidiomycota), a new species from India

A new species of Coltricia, C. raigadensis is described from tropical region of Maharashtra, India. The species is recognized on the basis of morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses using rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, partial 28S rDNA and partial 18S rDNA sequences. Coltricia raigadensis is characterized by centrally stipitate basidiocarps, adpressed velutinate to tomentose pileal surface, small pores (2-4 per mm), globose to subglobose, thick walled basidiospores measuring 5.6-7 × 5-6.64 μm.

Two new species of Perenniporia sensu lato (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from China and two new combinations in Crassisporus

Phylogenetic and morphological analyses on Perenniporia s.l. were carried out. Phylogenies on Perenniporia s.l. are reconstructed with two loci DNA sequences including the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the large subunit (nLSU). Two new species from Yunnan Province, southwest China, Perenniporiaprunicola and P.rosicola in Perenniporia s.l., are illustrated and described. Perenniporiaprunicola is characterised by the perennial and resupinate basidiomata with a clay pink pore surface when fresh, a trimitic hyphal system, the presence of clavate to fusiform hymenial cystidia, ellipsoid to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 4.8-6.2 × 3.6-4.5 µm. Perenniporiarosicola is characterised by annual and resupinate basidiomata with a white pore surface when fresh, a dimitic hyphal system, the presence of dendrohyphidia, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 5-5.8 × 4-5.2 μm. In addition, Crassisporus is a genus in Perenniporia s.l., in which two new combinations Crassisporusminutus and C.mollissimus are proposed. Main morphological characteristics of species related to new taxa are also provided.

Three new species of Favolaschia (Mycenaceae, Agaricales) from South China

The genus Favolaschia within the family Mycenaceae is characterised by the gelatinous basidiomata with poroid hymenophore and most species inhabit monocotyledonous plants. In this study, many samples covering a wide geographic range in China were examined morphologically and phylogenetically using concatenated ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-nLSU sequence data. Three new species clustering in Favolaschiasect.Anechinus, namely Favolaschiaimbricata, F.miscanthi and F.sinarundinariae, are described. Favolaschiaimbricata is characterised by imbricate basidiomata with pale grey to greyish colour when fresh and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 7-9 × 5-6.8 µm; F.miscanthi is characterised by satin white basidiomata when fresh, broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 7.5-10 × 5.5-7 µm and inhabit rotten Miscanthus; F.sinarundinariae is characterised by greyish-white basidiomata when fresh, dark grey near the base upon drying, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 7-9 × 5-7 µm and inhabit dead Sinarundinaria. The differences amongst the new species and their morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are discussed. In addition, an updated key to 19 species of Favolaschia found in China is provided.

Species diversity and taxonomy of Vararia (Russulales, Basidiomycota) with descriptions of six species from Southwestern China

Vararia is a species-rich genus in the family Peniophoraceae and has been shown to be polyphyletic. In this study, sequences of ITS and LSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Seventeen lineages including six new species from China, i.e., V.fissurata, V.lincangensis, V.punctata, V.isabellina, V.sinensis, and V.yaoshanensis were recognized, in which V.fissurata is characterized by the brittle basidiomata with pruinose and cracking hymenophore having white to olivaceous buff hymenial surface, the clamped generative hyphae, presence of the two types gloeocystidia; V.lincangensis is characterized by the simple-septa generative hyphae, and thick-walled skeletal hyphae, and ellipsoid basidiospores; V.punctata is delimited by its thin to slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, and thick-walled skeletal hyphae, present thick-walled, clavate to cylindrical gloeocystidia; V.isabellina is characterized by having the cream to isabelline to slightly brown hymenial surface, thin to slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, and sub-fusiform to navicular basidiospores; V.sinensis is distinguishable by its white to slightly pink hymenial surface, thick-walled skeletal hyphae, and sub-fusiform to navicular basidiospores; V.yaoshanensis is characterized by cream to pinkish buff to cinnamon-buff hymenial surface, slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, the presence of two types gloeocystidia, and slightly thick-walled, ellipsoid basidiospores. Phylogram based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions included nine genera within the family Peniophoraceae as Amylostereum, Asterostroma, Baltazaria, Dichostereum, Michenera, Peniophora, Scytinostroma and Vararia, in which the six new wood-inhabiting fungi species were grouped into genus Vararia. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the combined ITS and LSU tree sequences highlighted that V.fissurata was found to be the sister to V.ellipsospora with strong supports. Additionally, V.lincangensis was clustered with V.fragilis. Furthermore, V.punctata was retrieved as a sister to V.ambigua. Moreover, V.sinensis was grouped with five taxa as V.breviphysa, V.pirispora, V.fusispora, V.abortiphysa and V.insolita. The new species V.isabellina formed a monophyletic lineage, in which it was then grouped closely with V.daweishanensis, and V.gracilispora. In addition, V.yaoshanensis was found to be the sister to V.gallica with strong supports. The present results increased the knowledge of Vararia species diversity and taxonomy of corticioid fungi in China. An identification key to 17 species of Vararia in China is provided.

New species of Tropicoporus (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) from India, with a key to Afro-Asian Tropicoporus species

The Inonotuslinteus complex, predominantly reported from East Asia, Mesoamerica and Caribbean countries, was circumscribed into Tropicoporus as one of the new genera, based on morphological and phylogenetic data. The present paper describes four new species of Tropicoporus from India. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, based on ITS and nLSU data, delimited the new species, which are named T.cleistanthicola, T.indicus, T.pseudoindicus and T.tamilnaduensis. The pairwise homoplasy index (PHI) test was done to confirm the distinctive nature of the new species. The traits of Indian species remain distinct from one another, except for the pileate basidiome with the mono-dimitic hyphal system, cystidioles and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores. Descriptions, illustrations, PHI test results and a phylogenetic tree to show the position of the new species are provided. In addition, an identification key to Tropicoporus in Asia and an African species is given.

Notes of Five Wood-Decaying Fungi from Juwangsan National Park in Korea

Wood-decaying fungi are essential decomposers in forest ecosystems. They decompose wood substrates by producing various lignocellulolytic enzymes, which have significant industrial and medical applications. A survey was conducted at the Juwangsan National Park from 2018 to 2019 to determine the diversity of macrofungi in Korea. Five previously unrecorded wood-decaying polyporoid and corticioid fungi were identified among the collected specimens: Eichleriella sinensis, Hymenochaete anomala, Hyphoderma subsetigerum, Lyomyces orientalis, and Pseudowrightoporia crassihypha. These species were identified based on morphological, molecular, and phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear large subunit rDNA (nLSU) region. In this study, we provide detailed macro- and micro-morphological figures with phylogenetic trees to support the discovery of five new species in Korea.

Phylloporia mutabilissp. nov. from Benin, West Africa

Phylloporia is a widespread genus of Hymenochaetales (Basidiomycota) with polyporoid basidiomata found mainly in the tropics. Species of Phylloporia are predominantly parasitic of woody plant hosts, while some species grow as saprotrophs. Data on the genus is still scarce for tropical Africa, where we expect a high diversity given the high plant diversity in this area. Two specimens of this genus were collected in Benin (West Africa) and analysed morphologically and phylogenetically based on a multigene dataset (ITS, LSU, EF1α). Strong support for a species new to science was found, described here as Phylloporia mutabilis. It differs from other Phylloporia species by stipitate, coriaceous basidiomata, earth coloured to dark brown when fresh and changing upon drying from golden to yellowish brown, the margin being large in young specimens, becoming narrower with maturity. Basidiomata of Phylloporia mutabilis grow on the soil under angiosperm trees in a dense dry forest, so its lifestyle (saprotrophic, parasitic or mycorrhizal) is not evident, and future ecological studies will be required to elucidate this aspect. Citation: Olou BA, Krah F-S, Piepenbring M, Yorou NS (2023). Phylloporia mutabilis sp. nov. from Benin, West Africa. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 12: 81-89. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2023.12.06.

Species diversity of pathogenic wood-rotting fungi (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) in China

Wood-rotting basidiomycetes have been investigated in the Chinese forest ecosystem for the past 30 years. Two hundred and five pathogenic wood-decayers belonging to 9 orders, 30 families, and 74 genera have been found in Chinese native forests, plantations, and gardens. Seventy-two species (accounting for 35% of the total pathogenic species) are reported as pathogenic fungi in China for the first time. Among these pathogens, 184 species are polypores, nine are corticioid fungi, eight are agarics and five are hydnoid basidiomycetes. One hundred and seventy-seven species (accounting for 86%) cause white rot, while 28 species (accounting for 14%) result in brown rot; 157 species grow on angiosperm trees (accounting for 76.5%) and 44 species occur on gymnosperm trees (accounting for 21.5%), only four species inhabit both angiosperms and gymnosperms (accounting for 2%); 95 species are distributed in boreal to temperate forests and 110 in subtropical to tropical forests. In addition, 17 species, including Fomitopsis pinicola, Heterobasidion parviporum, and Phellinidium weirii etc. which were previously treated as pathogenic species in China, do not occur in China according to recent studies. In this paper, the host(s), type of forest, rot type, and distribution of each pathogenic species in China are given.

Insights into the Ecological Diversification of the Hymenochaetales based on Comparative Genomics and Phylogenomics With an Emphasis on Coltricia

To elucidate the genomic traits of ecological diversification in the Hymenochaetales, we sequenced 15 new genomes, with attention to ectomycorrhizal (EcM) Coltricia species. Together with published data, 32 genomes, including 31 Hymenochaetales and one outgroup, were comparatively analyzed in total. Compared with those of parasitic and saprophytic members, EcM species have significantly reduced number of plant cell wall degrading enzyme genes, and expanded transposable elements, genome sizes, small secreted proteins, and secreted proteases. EcM species still retain some of secreted carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) and have lost the key secreted CAZymes to degrade lignin and cellulose, while possess a strong capacity to degrade a microbial cell wall containing chitin and peptidoglycan. There were no significant differences in secreted CAZymes between fungi growing on gymnosperms and angiosperms, suggesting that the secreted CAZymes in the Hymenochaetales evolved before differentiation of host trees into gymnosperms and angiosperms. Nevertheless, parasitic and saprophytic species of the Hymenochaetales are very similar in many genome features, which reflect their close phylogenetic relationships both being white rot fungi. Phylogenomic and molecular clock analyses showed that the EcM genus Coltricia formed a clade located at the base of the Hymenochaetaceae and divergence time later than saprophytic species. And Coltricia remains one to two genes of AA2 family. These indicate that the ancestors of Coltricia appear to have originated from saprophytic ancestor with the ability to cause a white rot. This study provides new genomic data for EcM species and insights into the ecological diversification within the Hymenochaetales based on comparative genomics and phylogenomics analyses.

Outline, phylogenetic and divergence times analyses of the genus Haploporus (Polyporales, Basidiomycota): two new species are proposed

Haploporus species have a worldwide distribution and 27 species have been accepted. In this study, two new species, Haploporuscrystallinus and H.dextrinoideus, are proposed from South America, based on the molecular fragments (ITS, LSU and mtSSU) and morphological evidence. Molecular clock analysis was performed and the result suggests that the ancestor of Polyporales originated between the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous period, with a mean stem of 159.8 Mya [95% higher posterior density (HPD) of 142.4-184.1 Mya] and the genus Haploporus occurred at a mean stem of 108.3 Mya (95% HPD of 88.5-128.2 Mya). In addition, most species of the genus are diversified between 60.5 Mya and 1.8 Mya, during the Paleogene to Neogene. A key to the accepted species of the genus Haploporus is provided.

Validation of Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) ITS sequences and five new species based on multi-marker phylogenetic and morphological analyses

Although there is a continuous increase in available molecular data, not all sequence identities in public databases are always properly verified and managed. Here, the sequences available in GenBank for Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales) were validated. Many morphological characters of Fuscoporia overlap among the species, emphasizing the role of molecular identification for accuracy. The identities of 658 Fuscoporia GenBank internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences were assessed using ITS phylogeny, revealing 109 (16.6%) misidentified and 196 (29.8%) unspecified sequences. They were validated and re-identified based on the research articles they were published in and, if unpublished, based on sequences from the type, type locality-derived sequences, or otherwise reliable sequences. To enhance the resolution of species delimitation, a phylogenetic assessment of a multi-marker dataset (ITS + nrLSU + rpb2 + tef1) was conducted. The multi-marker phylogeny resolved five of the twelve species complexes found in the ITS phylogeny and uncovered five new Fuscoporia species: F. dolichoseta, F. gilvoides, F. koreana, F. reticulata, and F. semicephala. The validated ITS sequences in this study may prevent further accumulation of misidentified sequences in public databases and contribute to a more accurate taxonomic evaluation of Fuscoporia species.

Taxonomic and phylogenetic contributions to Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota): two new species from Hawaii with a key to North American species

Fuscoporia is a cosmopolitan, poroid, wood-decaying genus, belonging to the Hymenochaetales. During a study of wood-inhabiting fungi in the USA, four unknown specimens were collected from Hawaii. Both morphological criteria and molecular genetic analyses based on the ITS+nLSU+EF1-α datasets and the nLSU dataset confirmed that these four specimens represent two new species of Fuscoporia, and they are described as F. hawaiiana and F. minutissima. Fuscoporia hawaiiana is characterized by pileate basidiocarps, the absence of cystidioles, hooked hymenial setae, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 4-6 × 3.5-4.5 μm. Fuscoporia minutissima is distinguished by small pores (10-13 per mm) and basidiospores (3.4-4 × 2.4-3 μm). The taxonomic status of the two new species is briefly discussed. A key to the North American species of Fuscoporia is provided.

Phylogeny and diversity of Rigidoporus (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota), including three new species from Asia

Phylogenetic and morphological analyses on Rigidoporus were carried out. The genus Rigidoporus (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota), typified by R. microporus (Fr.) Overeem. (synonym Polyporus micromegas Mont.), was established by Murrill in 1905. The genus is mainly characterized by annual to perennial, resupinate, effused-reflexed to pileate or stipitate basidiomata with azonate or concentrically zonate and sulcate upper surface, a monomitic to pseudo-dimitic hyphal structure, simple-septate generative hyphae, and ellipsoid to globose basidiospores. Phylogeny on species of the genus is reconstructed with two loci DNA sequences including the internal transcribed spacer regions and the large subunit. Three new species in Rigidoporus are described and illustrated from Asia, and one new combination in the genus is proposed. The main morphological characteristics of the currently accepted species of Rigidoporus are provided.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Argentina, Neocamarosporium halophilum in leaf spots of Atriplex undulata. Australia, Aschersonia merianiae on scale insect (Coccoidea), Curvularia huamulaniae isolated from air, Hevansia mainiae on dead spider, Ophiocordyceps poecilometigena on Poecilometis sp. Bolivia, Lecanora menthoides on sandstone, in open semi-desert montane areas, Sticta monlueckiorum corticolous in a forest, Trichonectria epimegalosporae on apothecia of corticolous Megalospora sulphurata var. sulphurata, Trichonectria puncteliae on the thallus of Punctelia borreri. Brazil, Catenomargarita pseudocercosporicola (incl. Catenomargarita gen. nov.) hyperparasitic on Pseudocercospora fijiensis on leaves of Musa acuminata, Tulasnella restingae on protocorms and roots of Epidendrum fulgens. Bulgaria, Anthracoidea umbrosae on Carex spp. Croatia, Hymenoscyphus radicis from surface-sterilised, asymptomatic roots of Microthlaspi erraticum, Orbilia multiserpentina on wood of decorticated branches of Quercus pubescens. France, Calosporella punctatispora on dead corticated twigs of Aceropalus. French West Indies (Martinique), Eutypella lechatii on dead corticated palm stem. Germany, Arrhenia alcalinophila on loamy soil. Iceland, Cistella blauvikensis on dead grass (Poaceae). India, Fulvifomes maritimus on living Peltophorum pterocarpum, Fulvifomes natarajanii on dead wood of Prosopis juliflora, Fulvifomes subazonatus on trunk of Azadirachta indica, Macrolepiota bharadwajii on moist soil near the forest, Narcissea delicata on decaying elephant dung, Paramyrothecium indicum on living leaves of Hibiscus hispidissimus, Trichoglossum syamviswanathii on moist soil near the base of a bamboo plantation. Iran, Vacuiphoma astragalicola from stem canker of Astragalus sarcocolla. Malaysia, Neoeriomycopsis fissistigmae (incl. Neoeriomycopsidaceae fam. nov.) on leaf spots on flower Fissistigma sp. Namibia, Exophiala lichenicola lichenicolous on Acarospora cf. luederitzensis. Netherlands, Entoloma occultatum on soil, Extremus caricis on dead leaves of Carex sp., Inocybe pseudomytiliodora on loamy soil. Norway, Inocybe guldeniae on calcareous soil, Inocybe rupestroides on gravelly soil. Pakistan, Hymenagaricus brunneodiscus on soil. Philippines, Ophiocordyceps philippinensis parasitic on Asilus sp. Poland, Hawksworthiomyces ciconiae isolated from Ciconia ciconia nest, Plectosphaerella vigrensis from leaf spots on Impatiens noli-tangere, Xenoramularia epitaxicola from sooty mould community on Taxus baccata. Portugal, Inocybe dagamae on clay soil. Saudi Arabia, Diaporthe jazanensis on branches of Coffea arabica. South Africa, Alternaria moraeae on dead leaves of Moraea sp., Bonitomyces buffels-kloofinus (incl. Bonitomyces gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Constrictochalara koukolii on living leaves of Itea rhamnoides colonised by a Meliola sp., Cylindromonium lichenophilum on Parmelina tiliacea, Gamszarella buffelskloofina (incl. Gamszarella gen. nov.) on dead insect, Isthmosporiella africana (incl. Isthmosporiella gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothoeucasphaeria buffelskloofina (incl. Nothoeucasphaeria gen. nov.), on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothomicrothyrium beaucarneae (incl. Nothomicrothyrium gen. nov.) on dead leaves of Beaucarnea stricta, Paramycosphaerella proteae on living leaves of Protea caffra, Querciphoma foliicola on leaf litter, Rachicladosporium conostomii on dead twigs of Conostomium natalense var. glabrum, Rhamphoriopsis synnematosa on dead twig of unknown tree, Waltergamsia mpumalanga on dead leaves of unknown tree. Spain, Amanita fulvogrisea on limestone soil, in mixed forest, Amanita herculis in open Quercus forest, Vuilleminia beltraniae on Cistus symphytifolius. Sweden, Pachyella pulchella on decaying wood on sand-silt riverbank. Thailand, Deniquelata cassiae on dead stem of Cassia fistula, Stomiopeltis thailandica on dead twigs of Magnolia champaca. Ukraine, Circinaria podoliana on natural limestone outcrops, Neonematogonum carpinicola (incl. Neonematogonum gen. nov.) on dead branches of Carpinus betulus. USA, Exophiala wilsonii water from cooling tower, Hygrophorus aesculeticola on soil in mixed forest, and Neocelosporium aereum from air in a house attic. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Costa MM, Kandemir H, et al. 2023. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613. Persoonia 51: 280-417. doi: 10.3767/persoonia.2023.51.08.

Ceriporiopsistianshanensis (Polyporales, Agaricomycetes) and Sideratianshanensis (Hymenochaetales, Agaricomycetes), two new species of wood-inhabiting fungi from Xinjiang, Northwest China

Wood-inhabiting fungi are abundant in China, but their distribution is uneven, with more fungi in southwest China and fewer fungi in northwest China. During the investigation of wood-inhabiting fungi in Xinjiang, we collected a large number of specimens. Eight specimens growing on Piceaschrenkiana were collected from Tianshan Mountains, and they were described as two new species in Ceriporiopsis and Sidera based on morphological characters and molecular evidence. Ceriporiopsistianshanensis is characterized by a cream to salmon-buff pore surface, larger pores measuring 1-3 per mm, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores 5-6.5 × 3-4 μm. Sideratianshanensis is characterized by annual to perennial basidiocarps, measuring 15 mm thick, pores 5-7 per mm, cream to rosy buff pore surface, and allantoid basidiospores 3-3.5 × 1-1.4 µm. Detailed illustrations and descriptions of the novel species are provided.

Cultural and enzymatic activity studies of a pathogenic wood-decaying fungus Fomitiporia hippophaeicola (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota), recollected in the Eastern Caucasus

Stenotrophic basidiomycete fungus Fomitiporia hippophaeicola, being a wood-decaying pathogen of sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides), has been recollected after 48 years in the Eastern Caucasus during the mycological and phytopathological investigations in the inner-mountainous part of the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. The identity of the species was confirmed by both morphological and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 nrDNA data. We introduced and characterized the dikaryotic strain of F. hippophaeicola deposited for permanent storage to the Basidiomycete Culture Collection of the Komarov Botanical Institute RAS (LE-BIN). The morphological features and growth parameters of this xylotrophic fungus with phytopathogenic activity under cultivation on different agarized media (BWA, MEA, PDA) are described for the first time. The LE-BIN 4785 strain of F. hippophaeicola showed differences in growth rate and macromorphology, while the microscopic characteristics remained more robust during growth on the media tested. Qualitative analyses of oxidative and cellulolytic enzyme activities and assessment of the degradation potential of the strain examined in vitro were carried out. As a result, the newly obtained strain of F. hippophaeicola was found to exhibit medium enzyme activities and a moderate capacity to degrade the polyphenol dye azur B.

Two new species of Scytinostroma (Russulales, Basidiomycota) in Southwest China

Two new species of Scytinostroma viz. S. acystidiatum and S. macrospermum, are described from southwest China. Phylogeny based on ITS + nLSU dataset demonstrates that samples of the two species form two independent lineages and are different in morphology from the existing species of Scytinostroma. Scytinostroma acystidiatum is characterized by resupinate, coriaceous basidiomata with cream to pale yellow hymenophore, a dimitic hyphal structure with generative hyphae bearing simple septa, the absence of cystidia, and amyloid, broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 4.7-7 × 3.5-4.7 μm. Scytinostroma macrospermum is characterized by resupinate, coriaceous basidiomata with cream to straw yellow hymenophore, a dimitic hyphal structure with generative hyphae bearing simple septa, numerous cystidia embedded or projecting from hymenium, and inamyloid, ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 9-11 × 4.5-5.5 μm. The differences between the new species and morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are discussed.