Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382

Unearthing limestone fungal diversity: Description of seven novel species from Portugal

Stone-built heritages are found worldwide, and despite stony surfaces being considered a stressful environment with challenging conditions to overcome, research has demonstrated that it can support diverse fungal communities, fostering a unique array of peculiar yet crucial species. These species exhibit a dual nature, being both foe and friend. While these fungi play a considerable role in the deterioration of cultural heritage, their mechanisms of adaptation to unfavourable environments hold great promise for biotechnology. Despite their importance, there is limited information available about these stone dwellers in Portugal. During an experimental survey aimed at isolating fungal species thriving in a deteriorated limestone funerary art piece at the Lemos Pantheon, a national monument located in Águeda, Portugal, several fungal specimens were isolated that could not be identified as any currently known species. Through morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analyses, seven new species (Aspergillus albicolor sp. nov., Banksiophoma dissensa sp. nov., Knufia lusitanica sp. nov., Microascus lausatensis sp. nov., Neodevriesia saximollicula sp. nov., Paramicrodochium filiforme sp. nov. and Talaromyces benedictus sp. nov.) are here proposed, illustrated, and compared to closely related species. These newly discovered fungal taxa form distinct lineages independent of other previously described species and are classified into seven families across six orders within the phylum Ascomycota. This paper also provides additional evidence that stone heritages harbour a diverse range of new species, deserving additional focus in the future. Citation: Paiva DS, Fernandes L, Pereira E, Mesquita N, Tiago I, Trovão J, Portugal A (2025). Unearthing limestone fungal diversity: Description of seven novel species from Portugal Fungal Systematics and Evolution 15: 47-77. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2025.15.02.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Curvularia species from Iran, with description of two novel species and two new records

Curvularia species exhibit a wide range of ecological roles, including plant, animal, or human pathogens, as well as epiphytes, saprophytes, or endophytes, predominantly associated with cultivated cereals. In this study, several fungal isolates with similar characteristics in the genus Curvularia were recovered from various poaceous hosts (Poales plants) in different locations in Iran during 2012‒2022. Based on the morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogeny of the translation elongation factor-1 alpha (TEF1), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS-rDNA) genes, the studied isolates were assigned to five species, of which Curvularia caspica, sp. nov. and C. cyperi, sp. nov. are introduced as novel species and Curvularia nodulosa and C. oryzae are new records for Iran's mycobiota. Molecular studies revealed a closer relationship between one of the studied species (Curvularia sp.) and C. frankliniae. However, due to the absence of detailed morphological characteristics for C. frankliniae, morphological comparisons were not feasible. To precisely establish their phylogenetic position, more isolates need to be analyzed. Consequently, the studied species was identified as Curvularia sp. in this study. Additionally, a new clade, "papendorfii," was established to accommodate 11 species that share common morphological characteristics and form a distinct clade in phylogenetic analyses. The morphology, habitat, distribution, and evolutionary relationships of each species with other Curvularia species were analyzed, accompanied by detailed illustrations and descriptions. This comprehensive study offers valuable insights into the diversity and distribution of Curvularia species, enhancing our understanding of fungal ecology and taxonomy.

New genera and species of coniferous twig-inhabiting Rhytismatales from China

Species in the order Rhytismatales M.E. Barr ex Minter (Leotiomycetes, Ascomycota) develop on a wide range of host plants, but prefer conifers, such as species of Cupressaceae and Pinaceae. Conifers, the largest group of gymnosperms, show a high diversity in China. In this study, the species diversity of Rhytismatales on twigs of conifers is investigated based on specimens newly collected in China. Morphological characteristics combined with multi-gene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, nrLSU, and mtSSU rDNA) revealed 18 new species, belonging to six new genera (Abiomyces, Cryptococcomyces, Labivalidus, Neotherrya, Pseudococcomyces, and Stipamyces) and three known genera (Hypoderma, Hypohelion, and Tryblidiopsis). Additionally, seven new combinations are proposed. The findings underscore the complexity of fungal taxonomy within Rhytismatales and the importance of considering multiple criteria for accurate classification. The study also explores the importance of host specificity for genus and species delimitation within the order. A key to genera and species of Rhytismatales on twigs of conifers worldwide is provided.

Two new species of Micropsalliota (Agaricales, Agaricaceae) from subtropical regions of China

Micropsalliota is a relatively small genus, with 97 names recorded in previous research. In this study, two new species of Micropsalliota, M.bispora and M.vulgaris, have been identified based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence from subtropical regions of China. Morphologically, M.bispora is characterized by very small basidiomata, cymbiform basidiospores up to 9.0 μm long, white to cream pileus with fawn to dull red center, and tibiiform cheilocystidia; M.vulgaris is recognized by small basidiomata, medium-sized spores, white to cream pileus, covered with reddish brown to dark brown fibrils, various cheilocystidia that are up to 60 μm long, and hyphae of fibrils exhibiting pale brown vacuolar pigmentation. Their distinct taxonomic status is confirmed by the positions of the two new species in 4-locus (ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef-1α) phylogenetic trees. Detailed descriptions and morphological photographs of two new species are presented. To aid in diagnosis, a key to 35 species of Micropsalliota in China is provided.

Species Diversity of Gymnopus Section Levipedes in Southwestern China, with a Description of Three New Species

Species of Gymnopus sect. Levipedes are challenging to delimitate due to the morphological similarity among different taxa. In this study, morphological characteristics, molecular phylogenetic data, and ecological traits were integrated to investigate the species diversity of this section of southwestern China. A total of 17 species were documented in the region, including three new species, namely G. sinobrevipes, G. flavoalbus, G. yunnanensis, and two species new to the studied area-G. bicolor and G. ocior. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the three new species are presented, along with comparisons to closely related or morphologically similar species. The remaining species included five that were originally described from southwestern China, four that were first identified from Europe, two from the Republic of Korea, and one from North America. Six of these species, originally described outside of China, currently lack molecular evidence to support their distributions in southwestern China. Finally, 11 species with morphological and molecular evidence were recognized in southwestern China. A key to these species is also provided.

Four New or Newly Recorded Species from Freshwater Habitats in Jiangxi Province, China

Freshwater fungi consist of a highly diverse group of organisms in freshwater habitats worldwide. During a survey of fungal diversity in freshwater habitats across different regions of Jiangxi Province, China, four freshwater fungi were collected. To study their phylogenetic relationships, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2), large subunit (28S, LSU), small subunit (18S, SSU), and RNA polymerase II subunit (RPB2) genes were selected for phylogenetic analyses. Based on morphology coupled with phylogenetic analysis, these strains were confirmed to belong to Phaeoisaria, Pleurothecium, and Pseudodactylaria. Among them, three fungi were confirmed as the new species, namely, Pleurothecium lignicola (Pleurotheciaceae), Pseudodactylaria jiangxiensis (Pseudodactylariaceae), and Ps. lignicola (Pseudodactylariaceae). One species was identified as Phaeoisaria filiformis (Pleurotheciaceae), a new record of this species in China. All species were compared with other similar species, and detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic data were provided.

Description of the New Species Laccaria albifolia (Hydnangiaceae, Basidiomycota) and a Reassessment of Laccaria affinis Based on Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses

Laccaria is a diverse and widespread genus of ectomycorrhizal fungi that form symbiotic associations with various trees and shrubs, playing a significant role in forest ecosystems. Approximately 85 Laccaria species are formally recognised, but recent studies indicate this number may be an underestimation, highlighting the need for further taxonomic studies to improve our understanding of species boundaries. This manuscript focuses on Laccaria affinis, originally described by Singer in 1967 as Laccaria laccata var. affinis, and details a comprehensive study of its morphological and molecular characteristics, including the examination of its holotype and recent collections from Italy and the United Kingdom. Our findings reveal significant micromorphological traits that enhance the original description. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that L. affinis occupies a distinct clade within Northern Hemisphere Laccaria species, although minimal genetic differences challenge its independence from L. macrocystidiata. Consequently, we propose that these two taxa be considered synonymous. This study not only contributes to the understanding of Laccaria diversity but also proposes the formal designation of an epitype for L. affinis, thereby providing a foundation for future research on this ecologically significant genus. Furthermore, a new species named Laccaria albifolia belonging to the "/Laccaria bicolor complex clade" is described here on the base of six collections from Italy and Spain.

Contributions to the Inocybe umbratica-paludinella (Agaricales) Group in China: Taxonomy, Species Diversity, and Molecular Phylogeny

Inocybe is the largest genus in the family Inocybaceae, with approximately 1000 species worldwide. Basic data on the species diversity, geographic distribution, and the infrageneric framework of Inocybe are still incomplete because of the intricate nature of this genus, which includes numerous unrecognized taxa that exist around the world. A multigene phylogeny of the I. umbratica-paludinella group, initially designated as the "I. angustifolia subgroup", was conducted using the ITS-28S-rpb2 nucleotide datasets. The seven species, I. alabamensis, I. angustifolia, I. argenteolutea, I. olivaceonigra, I. paludinella, I. subangustifolia, and I. umbratica, were confirmed as members of this species group. At the genus level, the I. umbratica-paludinella group is a sister to the lineage of the unifying I. castanea and an undescribed species. Inocybe sect. Umbraticae sect. nov. was proposed to accommodate species in the I. umbratica-paludinella group and the I. castanea lineage. This section now comprises eight documented species and nine new species from China, as described in this paper. Additionally, new geographical distributions of I. angustifolia and I. castanea in China are reported. The nine new species and I. angustifolia, I. castanea, I. olivaceonigra, and I. umbratica are described in detail and illustrated herein with color plates based on Chinese materials. A global key to 17 species in the section Umbraticae is provided. The results of the current study provide a more detailed basis for the accurate identification of species in the I. umbratica-paludinella group and a better understanding of their phylogenetic placement.

Diversity of Lignicolous Freshwater Fungi from Yuanjiang River in Yunnan (China), with the Description of Four New Species

Yuanjiang River (Red River) is one of the six major water systems in Yunnan Province, which originates from western Yunnan Province. This river system features numerous tributaries, complex terrain, and abundant natural resources. During the investigation on the diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the Yuanjiang River, nine species were collected and identified, five belonging to Dothideomycetes and four to Sordariomycetes. Based on morphology and multigene phylogenetic analyses, four species, namely, Aquadictyospora aquatica, Dictyosporium fluminicola, Myrmecridium submersum, and Neomyrmecridium fusiforme, are described as new species. Dictyocheirospora aquadulcis is reported as a new national record, and Myrmecridium hydei is reported as a new habitat record. Dictyocheirospora rotunda, Halobyssothecium aquifusiforme, and Pseudohalonectria lutea were known earlier from freshwater habitats, but we described them in detail in this paper. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of the diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in southwestern China.

Descriptions of 19 Unrecorded Species Belonging to Sordariomycetes in Korea

A survey of fungal diversity in soil and freshwater habitats in Korea isolated several species of the class Sordariomycetes. Morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses showed that these species represented new records for Korea. Herein, we report the descriptions, illustrations, and molecular phylogeny of 19 species previously undescribed in Korea, including Achaetomiella virescens, Arxotrichum gangligerum, Caespitomonium euphorbiae, Comoclathris typhicola, Gamsia aggregata, Luteonectria nematophila, Paramyrothecium sinense, Parasarocladium debruynii, Pleurocordyceps agarica, Pyrenochaetopsis sinensis, Scedosporium boydii, Scedosporium dehoogii, Scedosporium minutisporum, Striatibotrys rhabdosporus, Trichocladium crispatum, Trichoderma azevedoi, Trichoderma longifialidicum, Xepicula leucotricha, and Xylomelasma sordida.

Phylogenetic and Morphological Perspectives on Crepidotus subg. Dochmiopus: Exploratively Unveiling Hidden Diversity in China

Crepidotus subg. Dochmiopus contributes to more than half of Crepidotus species and exhibits highly hidden diversity. However, C. subg. Dochmiopus is challenging to study because the basidiomata of C. subg. Dochmiopus species are usually small and white, inconspicuous interspecific distinctions, and possess a familiar complex. In this study, we utilized a variety of characteristics for species identification, including habitat, presence or absence of a stipe in mature specimens, pileipellis and cheilocystidia patterns, whether the lamellae edges are fimbriated, and other characteristics. Above all, cheilocystidia and pileipellis patterns will be important in C. subg. Dochmiopus research. Based on the present specimens, we constructed a multigene phylogenetic tree (ITS + LSU) and recognized four new species: C. lamellomaculatus sp. nov., C. capitatocystidiatus sp. nov., C. succineus sp. nov., C. clavocystidiatustustus sp. nov. Detailed morphological descriptions, photographs, line drawings and comparisons with closely related taxa for the new species are provided. The current phylogenetic analysis does not support the previously classifications, indicating that the classification of Crepidotus requires re-evaluation. But the existing molecular datasets and species' descriptions are insufficient to fully resolve the classification. Further integration of new gene segments and a comprehensive review of morphological characteristics will reveal a natural classification for Crepidotus.

Two new species of Nectriaceae (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes) from Yunnan, China

Nectriaceae is a highly diverse family, and members have a worldwide distribution, particularly in warm temperate to tropical regions. During the survey of fungal diversity in different habitats in Yunnan province, China, two new species isolated from soil and air respectively, namely Atractiumyunnanense sp. nov. and Nalanthamalaxishuangbannaensis sp. nov., were proposed based on morphological comparisons and the multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tub2 sequence data. Phylogenetically, both species clustered in a monophyletic clade within Nectriaceae with strong support. A.yunnanense is characterized by synnematous conidiophores, pale olivaceous-green, clavate to oblong-ellipsoidal, multi-septate conidia, and pale olivaceous-green chlamydospores. N.xishuangbannaensis has acremonium-like or penicillium-like conidiophores and either obovate or ellipsoidal, cylindrical or fusiform conidia. Full descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree showing the phylogenetic position of the two new species were provided.

Seven New Species of Entoloma Subgenus Cubospora (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from Subtropical Regions of China

Entoloma is a relatively large genus in Agaricales, with a rich diversity of species and a wide distribution. In this study, seven new species of Entoloma belonging to the subgenus Cubospora have been identified based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence from subtropical regions of China. Morphologically, E. excavatum is characterized by the yellow, depressed, estriate pileus and medium-sized basidiospores; E. lacticolor is recognized by the white and papillate pileus, adnexed lamellae, and presence of clamp connections; E. phlebophyllum is identified by the pink-to-maroon and estriate pileus, and lamellae with lateral veins; E. rufomarginatum differs from other cuboid-spored species by the lamellae edge which is red-brown-underlined; E. subcycneum is characterized by the white pileus and carneogriseum-type cheilocystidia; E. submurrayi is recognized by the pileus margin exceeding the lamellae, 2-layered pileipellis with hyphae of different widths, and the presence of clamp connections; E. tomentosum is identified by the tomentose pileus, heterogeneous lamella edge, and versiform cheilocystidia with brown-yellow contents. Their distinct taxonomic status is confirmed by the positions of the seven new species in both the ITS + LSU and 3-locus (LSU, tef-1α, rpb2) phylogenetic trees. Detailed descriptions, color photos, and a key to related species are presented.

Unveiling fungi associated with Castanopsis woody litter in Yunnan Province, China: Insights into Pleosporales (Dothideomycetes) species

During a survey of the diversity of lignicolous fungi in Yunnan Province, China, we collected and identified five microfungi species from dead woody litters of Castanopsis trees in terrestrial habitats. Through both morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses of multi-gene sequences, we identified two taxa as new species and three collections as new host records within Pleosporales. Pseudolophiostomalincangense sp. nov. is introduced as a sexual morph in Lophiostomataceae, Pleopunctumbaoshanense sp. nov. is introduced as a hyphomycetous fungi in Phaeoseptaceae, and Paraphomaaquatica as a first report of sexual morph in Paraphoma. In addition, Occultibambusakunmingensis and Pleopunctummegalosporum were isolated for the first time from the dead twigs of Castanopsisdelavayi and C.calathiformis, respectively. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results are provided for the above-mentioned species.

New and Interesting Pine-Associated Hyphomycetes from China

Pine trees play a crucial role in the forests of Sichuan Province, boasting rich species diversity and a lengthy evolutionary history. However, research and investigation on fungi associated with pine trees are insufficient. This study investigated the diversity of hyphomycetes fungi associated with pine trees in Sichuan Province, China. During the survey, we collected five specimens of hyphomycetes from branches and bark of species of Pinus. Five barcodes were selected for study and sequenced, including ITS, SSU, LSU, TEF1, and RPB2. Morphological examination and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses revealed three new species, viz. Catenulostroma pini sp. nov. within Teratosphaeriaceae, Kirschsteiniothelia longisporum sp. nov. within Kirschsteiniotheliaceae, Sporidesmiella sichuanensis sp. nov. within Junewangiaceae, and two known species, Paradictyoarthrinium diffractum and P. hydei within Paradictyoarthriniaceae, which are the new host records from Pinus species. Catenulostroma pini, distinguished from other species in the genus by its unique morphology, has three conidial morphologies: small terminal helicoconidia, scolecoconidia with many septa, and phragmoconidia conidia. Kirschsteiniothelia longisporum has longer spores when compared to the other species in the genus. According to phylogenetic analysis, Sporidesmiella sichuanensis formed an independent clade sister to S. aquatica and S. juncicola, distinguished by differences in conidial size.

What are the 100 most cited fungal genera?

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated between 2 to 11 million species, of which only about 155 000 have been named. Most fungi are invisible to the unaided eye, but they represent a major component of biodiversity on our planet, and play essential ecological roles, supporting life as we know it. Although approximately 20 000 fungal genera are presently recognised, the ecology of most remains undetermined. Despite all this diversity, the mycological community actively researches some fungal genera more commonly than others. This poses an interesting question: why have some fungal genera impacted mycology and related fields more than others? To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited fungal genera. A thorough database search of the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed was performed to establish which genera are most cited. The most cited 10 genera are Saccharomyces, Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Botrytis, Pichia, Cryptococcus and Alternaria. Case studies are presented for the 100 most cited genera with general background, notes on their ecology and economic significance and important research advances. This paper provides a historic overview of scientific research of these genera and the prospect for further research. Citation: Bhunjun CS, Chen YJ, Phukhamsakda C, Boekhout T, Groenewald JZ, McKenzie EHC, Francisco EC, Frisvad JC, Groenewald M, Hurdeal VG, Luangsa-ard J, Perrone G, Visagie CM, Bai FY, Błaszkowski J, Braun U, de Souza FA, de Queiroz MB, Dutta AK, Gonkhom D, Goto BT, Guarnaccia V, Hagen F, Houbraken J, Lachance MA, Li JJ, Luo KY, Magurno F, Mongkolsamrit S, Robert V, Roy N, Tibpromma S, Wanasinghe DN, Wang DQ, Wei DP, Zhao CL, Aiphuk W, Ajayi-Oyetunde O, Arantes TD, Araujo JC, Begerow D, Bakhshi M, Barbosa RN, Behrens FH, Bensch K, Bezerra JDP, Bilański P, Bradley CA, Bubner B, Burgess TI, Buyck B, Čadež N, Cai L, Calaça FJS, Campbell LJ, Chaverri P, Chen YY, Chethana KWT, Coetzee B, Costa MM, Chen Q, Custódio FA, Dai YC, Damm U, de Azevedo Santiago ALCM, De Miccolis Angelini RM, Dijksterhuis J, Dissanayake AJ, Doilom M, Dong W, Alvarez-Duarte E, Fischer M, Gajanayake AJ, Gené J, Gomdola D, Gomes AAM, Hausner G, He MQ, Hou L, Iturrieta-González I, Jami F, Jankowiak R, Jayawardena RS, Kandemir H, Kiss L, Kobmoo N, Kowalski T, Landi L, Lin CG, Liu JK, Liu XB, Loizides M, Luangharn T, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Makhathini Mkhwanazi GJ, Manawasinghe IS, Marin-Felix Y, McTaggart AR, Moreau PA, Morozova OV, Mostert L, Osiewacz HD, Pem D, Phookamsak R, Pollastro S, Pordel A, Poyntner C, Phillips AJL, Phonemany M, Promputtha I, Rathnayaka AR, Rodrigues AM, Romanazzi G, Rothmann L, Salgado-Salazar C, Sandoval-Denis M, Saupe SJ, Scholler M, Scott P, Shivas RG, Silar P, Souza-Motta CM, Silva-Filho AGS, Spies CFJ, Stchigel AM, Sterflinger K, Summerbell RC, Svetasheva TY, Takamatsu S, Theelen B, Theodoro RC, Thines M, Thongklang N, Torres R, Turchetti B, van den Brule T, Wang XW, Wartchow F, Welti S, Wijesinghe SN, Wu F, Xu R, Yang ZL, Yilmaz N, Yurkov A, Zhao L, Zhao RL, Zhou N, Hyde KD, Crous PW (2024). What are the 100 most cited fungal genera? Studies in Mycology 108: 1-411. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.108.01.

New and Interesting Fungi. 7

Two new genera, 17 new species, two epitypes, and six interesting new host and / or geographical records are introduced in this study. New genera include: Cadophorella (based on Cadophorella faginea) and Neosatchmopsis (based on Neosatchmopsis ogrovei). New species include: Alternaria halotolerans (from hypersaline sea water, Qatar), Amylostereum stillwellii (from mycangia of Sirex areolatus, USA), Angiopsora anthurii (on leaves of Anthurium andraeanum, Brazil), Anthracocystis zeae-maydis (from pre-stored Zea mays, South Africa), Bisifusarium solicola (from soil, South Africa), Cadophorella faginea (from dead capsule of Fagus sylvatica, Germany), Devriesia mallochii (from house dust, Canada), Fusarium kirstenboschense (from soil, South Africa), Macroconia podocarpi (on ascomata of ascomycete on twigs of Podocarpus falcatus, South Africa), Neosatchmopsis ogrovei (on Eucalyptus leaf litter, Spain), Ophiocordyceps kuchinaraiensis (on Coleoptera larva, Thailand), Penicillium cederbergense (from soil, South Africa), Penicillium pascuigraminis (from pasture mulch, South Africa), Penicillium viridipigmentum (from soil, South Africa), Pleurotheciella acericola (on stem, bark of living tree of Acer sp., Germany), Protocreopsis physciae (on Physcia caesia, Netherlands), and Talaromyces podocarpi (from soil, South Africa). Citation: Visagie CM, Yilmaz N, Allison JD, Barreto RW, Boekhout T, Boers J, Delgado MA, Dewing C, Fitza KNE, Furtado ECA, Gaya E, Hill R, Hobden A, Hu DM, Hülsewig T, Khonsanit A, Kolecka A, Luangsa-ard JJ, Mthembu A, Pereira CM, Price J-L, Pringle A, Qikani N, Sandoval-Denis M, Schumacher RK, Slippers B, Tennakoon DS, Thanakitpipattana D, van Vuuren NI, Groenewald JZ, Crous PW (2024). New and Interesting Fungi. 7. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 13: 441-494. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2024.13.12.

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.

Multi-gene phylogeny and morphological characters reveal seven new species of Micropsalliota (Agaricales, Agaricaceae) from southern China, with an updated key for the species distributed in China

Species of Micropsalliota generally grow in the tropics and are characterised by small, slender basidiomes, brown basidiospores, and cheilocystidia that vary in shape with capitate or subcapitate apex, and pigmented pileipellis. Based on morphological characters and molecular evidence, here we describe seven new species from southern China, viz. Micropsalliota ferruginea, M. fimbriata, M. gigaspora, M. longicystis, M. nana, M. squarrosa, and M. umbonata. Micropsalliota appendiculata, a species recently described from Vietnam, was first recorded in China. The Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses based on multi-locus sequence datasets (the nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer region ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, nrITS; the D1-D2 domains of nuc 28S rDNA, LSU; partial sequences of the most variable region of the second-largest subunit of RNA polymerase II, rpb2, and a portion of the translation-elongation factor 1-α, tef1) shows that the genus is separated into 11 major clades and subclades. To aid in diagnosis, a key to 32 species of Micropsalliota in China is provided.

Use of Aureobasidium in a sustainable economy

Aureobasidium is omnipresent and can be isolated from air, water bodies, soil, wood, and other plant materials, as well as inorganic materials such as rocks and marble. A total of 32 species of this fungal genus have been identified at the level of DNA, of which Aureobasidium pullulans is best known. Aureobasidium is of interest for a sustainable economy because it can be used to produce a wide variety of compounds, including enzymes, polysaccharides, and biosurfactants. Moreover, it can be used to promote plant growth and protect wood and crops. To this end, Aureobasidium cells adhere to wood or plants by producing extracellular polysaccharides, thereby forming a biofilm. This biofilm provides a sustainable alternative to petrol-based coatings and toxic chemicals. This and the fact that Aureobasidium biofilms have the potential of self-repair make them a potential engineered living material avant la lettre. KEY POINTS: •Aureobasidium produces products of interest to the industry •Aureobasidium can stimulate plant growth and protect crops •Biofinish of A. pullulans is a sustainable alternative to petrol-based coatings •Aureobasidium biofilms have the potential to function as engineered living materials.

Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Three New Species of Didymella (Didymellaceae, Pleosporales) from Jiangxi, China

Didymella contains numerous plant pathogenic and saprobic species associated with a wide range of hosts. Over the course of our mycological surveys of plant pathogens from terrestrial plants in Jiangxi Province, China, eight strains isolated from diseased leaves of four host genera represented three new species of Didymella, D. bischofiae sp. nov., D. clerodendri sp. nov., and D. pittospori sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, RPB2, and TUB2 sequence data, using maximum-likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI), revealed their taxonomic placement within Didymella. Both morphological examinations and molecular phylogenetic analyses supported D. bischofiae, D. clerodendri, and D. pittospori as three new taxa within Didymella. Illustrations and descriptions of these three taxa were provided, along with comparisons with closely related taxa in the genus.

Identification and fungicide sensitivity of Microdochiumchrysopogonis (Ascomycota, Amphisphaeriaceae), a new species causing tar spot of Chrysopogonzizanioides in southern China

Vetiver grass (Chrysopogonzizanioides) has received extensive attention in recent years due to its diverse applications in soil and water conservation, heavy metal remediation, as well as essential oil and phenolic acids extraction. In 2019, the emergence of tar spot disease on C.zizanioides was documented in Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, China. Initially, the disease manifested as black ascomata embedded within leaf tissue, either scattered or clustered on leaf surfaces. Subsequently, these ascomata became surrounded by fisheye lesions, characterised by brown, elliptical, necrotic haloes, which eventually coalesced, resulting in leaf withering. Koch's postulates demonstrated that the fungus isolated from these lesions was the causal agent. Microscopic examination showed that the pathogen morphologically belonged to Microdochium. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the combined ITS, LSU, tub2 and rpb2 sequences revealed the three isolates including GDMCC 3.683, LNU-196 and LNU-197 to be a novel species of Microdochium. Combining the results of phylogenetic, pathogenicity and morphological analyses, we propose a new species named M.chrysopogonis as the causal agent of C.zizanioides in southern China. The optimum growth temperature for M.chrysopogonis was determined to be 30 °C. The in vitro fungicide sensitivity of M.chrysopogonis was determined using a mycelial growth assay. Four demethylation-inhibiting (DMI) fungicides, including difenoconazole, flusilazole, propiconazole and tebuconazole and one methyl benzimidazole carbamate (MBC) fungicide, carbendazim, were effective against M.chrysopogonis, with mean 50% effective concentration (EC50) values of 0.077, 0.011, 0.004, 0.024 and 0.007 μg/ml, respectively. These findings provide essential references for the precise diagnosis and effective management of M.chrysopogonis.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal two new graminicolous species, Curvularia aurantiasp. nov. and C. vidyodayana sp. nov. with new records of Curvularia spp. from Sri Lanka

Despite being a small island, Sri Lanka is rich in fungal diversity. Most of the fungi from Sri Lanka have been identified as pathogens of vegetables, fruits, and plantation crops to date. The pleosporalean genus Curvularia (Dothideomycetes) includes phytopathogenic, saprobic, endophytic, and human/animal opportunistic pathogenic fungal species. The majority of the plant-associated Curvularia species are known from poaceous hosts. During the current study, 22 geographical locations of the country were explored and collections were made from 10 different poaceous hosts. Morphology and molecular phylogeny based on three loci, including nuclear internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 with 5.8S nrDNA (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gapdh), and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) supported the description of two new species of fungi described herein as C. aurantia sp. nov. and C. vidyodayana sp. nov. Moreover, novel host-fungal association records for C. chiangmaiensis, C. falsilunata, C. lonarensis, C. plantarum, and C. pseudobrachyspora are updated herein. In addition, five species within the genus Curvularia, viz., C. asiatica, C. geniculata, C. lunata, C. muehlenbeckiae, and C. verruculosa represent new records of fungi from Sri Lanka. Citation: Ferdinandez HS, Manamgoda DS, Udayanga D, Munasinghe MS, Castlebury LA (2023). Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal two new graminicolous species, Curvularia aurantia sp. nov. and C. vidyodayana sp. nov. with new records of Curvularia spp. from Sri Lanka. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 12: 219-246. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2023.12.11.

Kgaria (Boletaceae, Boletoideae) gen. nov. in Australia: Neither a Tylopilus nor a Porphyrellus

Kgaria is described as a new porphyrellus-like genus of Boletaceae to accommodate Tylopilus cyanogranulifer, a dark brown to dull lilac/violet, or rarely, nearly black bolete with a series of oxidation reactions progressing from blue to red then nearly black and a dark brown spore deposit. Idiosyncratic blue-green pigment encrustations (cyanogranules) and a similarly colored reaction of the hyphae located on pileus and stipe surfaces are also diagnostic. Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear large-subunit rDNA (nrLSU), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef-1), and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2) infer Kgaria as a unique generic lineage with two species, one of which is newly described (K. similis). Tylopilus olivaceoporus, originally described at the same time and as distinct from T. cyanogranulifer, appears to be conspecific with the latter. Some darkly pigmented taxa with similar oxidation reactions that were recently described from Brazil, Guyana, and China are further supported by morphology and molecular data as discrete lineages in separate genera in subfamily Boletoideae. Citation: Halling RE, Fechner NA, Holmes G, Davoodian N (2023). Kgaria (Boletaceae, Boletoideae) gen. nov. in Australia: Neither a Tylopilus nor a Porphyrellus. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 12: 31-45. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2023.12.02.

Eight novel cave fungi in Thailand's Satun Geopark

Karst caves are unique oligotrophic ecosystems characterised by the scarcity of organic litter, darkness, low to moderate temperatures, and high humidity, supporting diverse fungal communities. Despite their importance, little is known about the fungi in karst caves in Thailand. In 2019, we explored the culturable mycobiota associated with three selected types of substrates (air, soil/sediment and organic litter samples) from two karst caves, the Le Stegodon and Phu Pha Phet Caves, in the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark in southern Thailand. Based on morphological characters and multilocus phylogenetic analyses, eight new species (Actinomortierella caverna, Hypoxylon phuphaphetense, Leptobacillium latisporum, Malbranchea phuphaphetensis, Scedosporium satunense, Sesquicillium cavernum, Thelonectria satunensis and Umbelopsis satunensis) were described, illustrated, and compared to closely related species. These new fungal taxa form independent lineages distinct from other previously described species and classified into eight different families across six orders and two phyla (Ascomycota and Mucoromycota). This paper provides additional evidence that the karst caves located within the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, situated in the southern region of Thailand, harbour a diverse range of newly discovered species. Citation: Preedanon S, Suetrong S, Srihom C, Somrithipol S, Kobmoo N, Saengkaewsuk S, Srikitikulchai P, Klaysuban A, Nuankaew S, Chuaseeharonnachai C, Chainuwong B, Muangsong C, Zhang ZF, Cai L, Boonyuen N (2023). Eight novel cave fungi in Thailand's Satun Geopark. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 12: 1-30. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2023.12.01.

Morphological and Multi-Gene Phylogenetic Analyses Reveal Pseudotubeufia gen. nov. and Two New Species in Tubeufiaceae from China

Three helicosporous hyphomycete collections representing two species were obtained from rotting wood found in freshwater and terrestrial habitats in the Guizhou and Guangxi Provinces, China. A new genus Pseudotubeufia (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales), comprising Ps. hyalospora sp. nov. and Ps. laxispora sp. nov., was introduced with morphological characteristic and molecular data. In addition, the molecular evidence showed that Helicomyces sp. (G.M. 2020-09-19.1), H. roseus (CBS: 102.76), and the new genus Pseudotubeufia clustered together with high support based on a multi-gene (LSU, ITS, tef1α, and rpb2) phylogenetic analysis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and notes of the three new collections are provided.

Novel Harzia ixtarensis Fungus on Annona cherimola Fruit in Mexico and Its Synergistic Relationship with Colletotrichum fragariae

Since 2005 in Íxtaro, Michoacán, symptoms of Harzia infection have been observed on immature Annona cherimola fruit with Colletotrichum fragariae-induced anthracnose lesions and mummified fruit. This study aimed to identify the Harzia sp. and evaluate its pathogenicity. Four isolates were obtained from fruit exhibiting symptoms, cultured in four types of agar under various conditions, and characterized based on concatenated internal transcribes spacer (ITS) + large subunit and ITS + small subunit sequences. Additionally, the isolates were compared with two CBS species (two-type strains and two isolates) of Harzia patula and H. tenella under the same conditions as the Harzia isolates, and all known Harzia spp. in culture were included in two phylogenetic analyses. H. ixtarensis sp. nov. was proposed. Compared with H. patula CBS isolate 121524 which was the most closely phylogenetically related species, H. ixtarensis was characterized by slower colony growth (white to salmonish-beige), different percentages of two forms of conidia (elongated and globose; unicellular and hyaline to subhyaline), and smaller conidia. The conidia mainly germinated with two hyaline tubes without an appressorium. In situ inoculations (1 × 10⁶ ml^-1 conidia suspension) of fruit showed that fruit with wounds developed larger lesions than those without wounds. Harzia inoculation on anthracnose lesions (induced by prior inoculation with C. fragariae) produced larger anthracnose lesions than C. fragariae alone. When C. fragariae or H. ixtarensis was inoculated alone, the lesion size was 51 and 99% smaller, respectively, indicating synergy between C. fragariae and H. ixtarensis. Thus, H. ixtarensis may have a parasitic-synergistic and necrotrophic lifestyle, and exhibited symptoms on anthracnose lesions.

Heteroverticillium phytelephatis gen. et sp. nov. intercepted from nuts of Phytelephas macrocarpa, with an updated phylogenetic assessment of Nectriaceae

An entry postal parcel with mature nuts of Phytelephas macrocarpa from Togo was inspected at Dalian Customs (China) in December 2021, and four strains were isolated from symptomatic tissues of the nuts. Based on morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analyses, above strains were identified as a new species which is mainly characterised by the verticillately branching conidiophores. Based on multi-locus phylogenetic analyses, this new species forms a monophyletic clade closely related to Corallomycetella, Paracremonium and Xenoacremonium but could not be accommodated in any known genera of Nectriaceae. Thus, a new genus Heteroverticillium is established to accommodate this new species (H. phytelephatis). To our knowledge, this is the first time that Chinese customs have intercepted a new fungal genus. In addition, we provided an updated backbone tree for the generic relationships in Nectriaceae, which may largely assist future identification of nectriaceous fungi to genus level in quarantine inspections. Based on our analysis, Varicosporellopsis is likely a late synonym of Paracremonium.

Taxonomy of Hyphodermella: a case study to show that simple phylogenies cannot always accurately place species in appropriate genera

The genus is a special and crucial taxonomic rank compared with others above the species level, because a species has to be placed in a certain genus instead of any other higher ranks. With more and more new species being described, the placements of their generic position are sometimes incorrect due to the simple phylogenies resulting from inappropriate sampling. Here, we focus on the taxonomy of a small wood-inhabiting fungal genus Hyphodermella. With the most comprehensive sampling to date, the phylogenetic position of Hyphodermella within Phanerochaetaceae is rearranged by employing the same ITS and nLSU regions as in previous studies and also the ITS, nLSU, rpb1, rpb2 and tef1α regions. Three species are excluded from Hyphodermella: H. poroides is placed in a newly introduced monotypic genus Pseudohyphodermella, while H. aurantiaca and H. zixishanensis are transferred to Roseograndinia. Hyphodermella suiae is described as a new species from South China and Vietnam. Keys to eight species in Hyphodermella and five in Roseograndinia are provided. Beyond solving the taxonomic issue of Hyphodermella itself, the current study also aims to suggest that all fungal taxonomists especially beginners should keep in mind to sample as many comprehensive taxa as possible in phylogenetic analyses.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1478-1549

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Australia, Aschersonia mackerrasiae on whitefly, Cladosporium corticola on bark of Melaleuca quinquenervia, Penicillium nudgee from soil under Melaleuca quinquenervia, Pseudocercospora blackwoodiae on leaf spot of Persoonia falcata, and Pseudocercospora dalyelliae on leaf spot of Senna alata. Bolivia, Aspicilia lutzoniana on fully submersed siliceous schist in high-mountain streams, and Niesslia parviseta on the lower part and apothecial discs of Erioderma barbellatum on a twig. Brazil, Cyathus bonsai on decaying wood, Geastrum albofibrosum from moist soil with leaf litter, Laetiporus pratigiensis on a trunk of a living unknown hardwood tree species, and Scytalidium synnematicum on dead twigs of unidentified plant. Bulgaria, Amanita abscondita on sandy soil in a plantation of Quercus suber. Canada, Penicillium acericola on dead bark of Acer saccharum, and Penicillium corticola on dead bark of Acer saccharum. China, Colletotrichum qingyuanense on fruit lesion of Capsicum annuum. Denmark, Helminthosphaeria leptospora on corticioid Neohypochnicium cremicolor. Ecuador (Galapagos), Phaeosphaeria scalesiae on Scalesia sp. Finland, Inocybe jacobssonii on calcareous soils in dry forests and park habitats. France, Cortinarius rufomyrrheus on sandy soil under Pinus pinaster, and Periconia neominutissima on leaves of Poaceae. India, Coprinopsis fragilis on decaying bark of logs, Filoboletus keralensis on unidentified woody substrate, Penicillium sankaranii from soil, Physisporinus tamilnaduensis on the trunk of Azadirachta indica, and Poronia nagaraholensis on elephant dung. Iran, Neosetophoma fici on infected leaves of Ficus elastica. Israel, Cnidariophoma eilatica (incl. Cnidariophoma gen. nov.) from Stylophora pistillata. Italy, Lyophyllum obscurum on acidic soil. Namibia, Aureobasidium faidherbiae on dead leaf of Faidherbia albida, and Aureobasidium welwitschiae on dead leaves of Welwitschia mirabilis. Netherlands, Gaeumannomycella caricigena on dead culms of Carex elongata, Houtenomyces caricicola (incl. Houtenomyces gen. nov.) on culms of Carex disticha, Neodacampia ulmea (incl. Neodacampia gen. nov.) on branch of Ulmus laevis, Niesslia phragmiticola on dead standing culms of Phragmites australis, Pseudopyricularia caricicola on culms of Carex disticha, and Rhodoveronaea nieuwwulvenica on dead bamboo sticks. Norway, Arrhenia similis half-buried and moss-covered pieces of rotting wood in grass-grown path. Pakistan, Mallocybe ahmadii on soil. Poland, Beskidomyces laricis (incl. Beskidomyces gen. nov.) from resin of Larix decidua ssp. polonica, Lapidomyces epipinicola from sooty mould community on Pinus nigra, and Leptographium granulatum from a gallery of Dendroctonus micans on Picea abies. Portugal, Geoglossum azoricum on mossy areas of laurel forest areas planted with Cryptomeria japonica, and Lunasporangiospora lusitanica from a biofilm covering a biodeteriorated limestone wall. Qatar, Alternaria halotolerans from hypersaline sea water, and Alternaria qatarensis from water sample collected from hypersaline lagoon. South Africa, Alfaria thamnochorti on culm of Thamnochortus fraternus, Knufia aloeicola on Aloe gariepensis, Muriseptatomyces restionacearum (incl. Muriseptatomyces gen. nov.) on culms of Restionaceae, Neocladosporium arctotis on nest of cases of bag worm moths (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) on Arctotis auriculata, Neodevriesia scadoxi on leaves of Scadoxus puniceus, Paraloratospora schoenoplecti on stems of Schoenoplectus lacustris, Tulasnella epidendrea from the roots of Epidendrum × obrienianum, and Xenoidriella cinnamomi (incl. Xenoidriella gen. nov.) on leaf of Cinnamomum camphora. South Korea, Lemonniera fraxinea on decaying leaves of Fraxinus sp. from pond. Spain, Atheniella lauri on the bark of fallen trees of Laurus nobilis, Halocryptovalsa endophytica from surface-sterilised, asymptomatic roots of Salicornia patula, Inocybe amygdaliolens on soil in mixed forest, Inocybe pityusarum on calcareous soil in mixed forest, Inocybe roseobulbipes on acidic soils, Neonectria borealis from roots of Vitis berlandieri × Vitis rupestris, Sympoventuria eucalyptorum on leaves of Eucalyptus sp., and Tuber conchae from soil. Sweden, Inocybe bidumensis on calcareous soil. Thailand, Cordyceps sandindaengensis on Lepidoptera pupa, buried in soil, Ophiocordyceps kuchinaraiensis on Coleoptera larva, buried in soil, and Samsoniella winandae on Lepidoptera pupa, buried in soil. Taiwan region (China), Neophaeosphaeria livistonae on dead leaf of Livistona rotundifolia. Türkiye, Melanogaster anatolicus on clay loamy soils. UK, Basingstokeomyces allii (incl. Basingstokeomyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Allium schoenoprasum. Ukraine, Xenosphaeropsis corni on recently dead stem of Cornus alba. USA, Nothotrichosporon aquaticum (incl. Nothotrichosporon gen. nov.) from water, and Periconia philadelphiana from swab of coil surface. Morphological and culture characteristics for these new taxa are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Shivas RG, et al. 2023. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1478-1549. Persoonia 50: 158- 310. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2023.50.05.

New and Interesting Fungi. 6

Three new genera, six new species, three combinations, six epitypes, and 25 interesting new host and / or geographical records are introduced in this study. New genera: Neoleptodontidium (based on Neoleptodontidium aquaticum), and Nothoramularia (based on Nothoramularia ragnhildianicola). New species: Acremonium aquaticum (from cooling pad water, USA, Cladophialophora laricicola (on dead wood of Larix sp., Netherlands), Cyphellophora neerlandica (on lichen on brick wall, Netherlands), Geonectria muralis (on moss growing on a wall, Netherlands), Harposporium illinoisense (from rockwool, USA), and Neoleptodontidium aquaticum (from hydroponic water, USA). New combinations: Cyphellophora deltoidea (based on Anthopsis deltoidea), Neoleptodontidium aciculare (based on Leptodontidium aciculare), and Nothoramularia ragnhildianicola (based on Ramularia ragnhildianicola). Epitypes: Cephaliophora tropica (from water, USA), Miricatena prunicola (on leaves of Prunus serotina, Netherlands), Nothoramularia ragnhildianicola (on Ragnhildiana ferruginea, parasitic on Artemisia vulgaris, Germany), Phyllosticta multicorniculata (on needles of Abietis balsamea, Canada), Thyronectria caraganae (on twigs of Caragana arborescens, Ukraine), and Trichosphaeria pilosa (on decayed Salix branch, Netherlands). Furthermore, the higher order phylogeny of three genera regarded as incertae sedis is resolved, namely Cephaliophora (Ascodesmidaceae, Pezizales), Miricatena (Helotiales, Leotiomycetes), and Trichosphaeria (Trichosphaeriaceae, Trichosphaeriales), with Trichosphaeriaceae being an older name for Plectosphaerellaceae. Citation: Crous PW, Akulov A, Balashov S, Boers J, Braun U, Castillo J, Delgado MA, Denman S, Erhard A, Gusella G, Jurjević Ž, Kruse J, Malloch DW, Osieck ER, Polizzi G, Schumacher RK, Slootweg E, Starink-Willemse M, van Iperen AL, Verkley GJM, Groenewald JZ (2023). New and Interesting Fungi. 6. Fungal Systematics and Evolution 11: 109-156. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2023.11.09.

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.

Morphological and molecular analyses reveal two new species of Microcera (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales) associated with scale insects on walnut in China

The fungal genus Microcera consists of species mostly occurring as parasites of scale insects, but are also commonly isolated from soil or lichens. In the present study, we surveyed the diversity and assess the taxonomy of entomopathogenic fungi in Sichuan Province, China. Two new species of Microcera, viz. M.chrysomphaludis and M.pseudaulacaspidis, were isolated from scale insects colonising walnut (Juglansregia). Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses of ITS, LSU, tef1-α, rpb1, rpb2, acl1, act, tub2, cmdA and his3 sequence data provide evidence for the validity of the two species and their placement in Nectriaceae (Hypocreales). Microcerapseudaulacaspidis primarily differs from similar species by having more septate and smaller cylindrical macroconidia, as well as DNA sequence data. Meanwhile, Microcerachrysomphaludis has elliptical, one-septate ascospores with acute ends and cylindrical, slightly curved with 4-6 septate macroconidia up to 78 µm long. Morphological descriptions with illustrations of the novel species and DNA-based phylogeny generated from analyses of multigene dataset are also provided to better understand species relationships.

New Species of Entoloma Subgenera Cubospora and Leptonia (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from Central Vietnam

Four new species of Entoloma from Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve and Ta Dung National Park were discovered during an investigation of the diversity of the mycobiota of Central Vietnam and are described here on the base of the molecular and morphological data. Phylogenetic analysis was based on nrITS1-5.8S-ITS2, nrLSU and tef1α regions. Illustrated descriptions of their macro- and microscopic features and discussion on similar taxa are given. Entoloma cycneum and E. peristerinum belong to the subgenus Cubospora. They are morphologically similar species and are characterized by white or whitish basidiomata with yellowish or beige tinges and with mainly smooth, glabrous, and hygrophanous pileus, longitudinally fibrillose or fibrillose-scaly white stipe, cuboid spores, and more or less cylindrical cheilocystidia, arising from hymenophoral trama. Entoloma peristerinum posseses initially more coloured beige conical pileus, discolouring to white with age and drying. The pileus of E. cycneum is initially white, hemisphaerical to convex, usually with thin pubescence near the margin. The species can be recognized also by the cheilocystidia form: serrulatum-type in E. cycneum vs. porphyrogriseum-type in E. peristerinum. Another two species belong to the subgenus Leptonia. Entoloma tadungense is close to E. percoelestinum from which it differs by smaller spores with pronounced angles, presence of the cheilocystidia, and the lilac discolouration of the stipe. E. dichroides is named after its similarity to E. dichroum, a dark blue coloured species with pronouncedly angled basidiospores. It is distinguished by the basidiospores form-irregularly 5(-6) angled with elongated apiculus, as well as by absence of the cheilocystidia and darker basidiomata with conical pileus. The article also describes the history of the study of the genus Entoloma in Vietnam with a list of 29 species mentioned in the publications for this country.

Additions to hyphomycetes from Yungui Plateau, China with three new species (Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes)

Background

Yungui Plateau is rich in fungal diversity. Hyphomycetes, growing on submerged wood, can promote the degradation of organisms and the reuse of rotten wood energy. During an investigation of hyphomycetes in this region, 19 species of dematiaceous hyphomycetes were collected in Yungui Plateau.

New information

Both morphological identification and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, tef1 and LSU sequences supported Coryneumsevenseptatis as a new species. Phaeoisariaguizhouensis and Pleurotheciumyunanensis were introduced, based on morphology. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species were detailed. Known species are listed with notes.

The chalara-like anamorphs of Leotiomycetes

The chalara-like anamorphs of Leotiomycetes are phialidic hyphomycetes with cylindrical collarettes and deeply seated sporulating loci, and hyaline, aseptate or septate, cylindrical conidia. They are commonly found on plant litters in both terrestrial and submerged environments, and with broad geographical distribution. This paper reports our research result of diversity, taxonomy and phylogeny of these fungi in China, which is based on a systematic study by using an integrated approach of literature study, morphological observation and phylogenetic analyses of 153 chalara-like fungal species with diversified morphology in conidiomata, setae, conidiophores, phialides and conidia. The phylogenetic analyses employing different datasets of SSU, LSU and ITS sequences of 116 species showed that these chalara-like fungi were paraphyletic and scattered in 20 accepted genera belonging to five families of Leotiomycetes: Arachnopezizaceae, Hamatocanthoscyphaceae, Helotiaceae, Neolauriomycetaceae and Pezizellaceae. Additional six genera, Ascoconidium, Bioscypha, Chalarodendron, Didonia, Phaeoscypha and Tapesina, all reported with chalara-like anamorphs in literatures, are also accepted as members of Pezizellaceae or Leotiomycetes genera incertae sedis. Among of these 26 accepted genera of chalara-like fungi in Leotiomycetes, 17 genera are asexually typified genera (Ascoconidium, Bloxamia, Chalara, Chalarodendron, Constrictochalara, Cylindrochalara, Cylindrocephalum, Leochalara, Lareunionomyces, Minichalara, Neochalara, Neolauriomyces, Nagrajchalara, Parachalara, Stipitochalara, Xenochalara and Zymochalara), and 9 are sexually typified genera (Bioscypha, Bloxamiella, Calycellina, Calycina, Didonia, Hymenoscyphus, Mollisina, Phaeoscypha and Tapesina). The phylogenetic significance of conidial septation in generic delimitation was further confirmed; while other morphologies such as conidiomata, setae, conidiophores, phialides, conidial length, and conidial ornamentation have little phylogenetic significance, but could be used for species delimitation. The polyphyletic genus Chalara s. lat. is revised with monophyletic generic concepts by redelimitation of Chalara s. str. in a narrow concept, adaption of the emended Calycina to also include asexually typified chalara-like fungi, reinstatement of Cylindrocephalum, and introduction of six new genera: Constrictochalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao, Leochalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao, Minichalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao, Nagrajchalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao, Parachalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao and Stipitochalara W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao. Chaetochalara becomes a synonym of Chalara s. str., and the known species are disassembled into Chalara s. str. and Nagrajchalara. The polyphyletic genus Bloxamia is also redefined by introducing the new genus Bloxamiella W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao for B. cyatheicola. Five existing species of Chalara s. lat. were excluded from Leotiomycetes and reclassified: Chalara breviclavata as Chalarosphaeria breviclavata W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao gen. et sp. nov. in Chaetosphaeriaceae, C. vaccinii as Sordariochalara vaccinii W.P. Wu & Y.Z. Diao gen. et sp. nov. in Lasiosphaeriaceae, and three other Chalara species with hyaline phialides, C. hyalina, C. schoenoplecti and C. siamense as combinations of Pyxidiophora in Pyxidiophoraceae. For biodiversity of these fungi in China, a total of 80 species in 12 genera, including 60 new species, 17 new records and 1 new name, were discovered and documented in this paper. In addition, five species including three new species are reported from Japan. In connection to this revision, a total of 44 new combinations are made. The identification keys are provided for most of these genera. Future research area of these fungi should be the phylogenetic relationship of several sexually typified genera such as Bioscypha, Calycellina, Calycina, Didonia, Phaeoscypha, Rodwayella and Tapesina, and systematic revision of existing names under the genera Bloxamia, Chaetochalara and Chalara.

New corticioid taxa in Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from East Asia

The species diversity, taxonomy, and phylogeny of five corticioid genera of Phanerochaetaceae, namely, Hyphodermella, Roseograndinia, Phlebiopsis, Rhizochaete, and Phanerochaete, in East Asia are studied by using the morphological and molecular methods. Phylogenetic analyses were performed separately for the Donkia, Phlebiopsis, Rhizochaete, and Phanerochaete clades based on ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and nrLSU sequence data. In total, seven new species were found, two new combinations are suggested, and a new name is proposed. In the Donkia clade, Hyphodermella sensu stricto was strongly supported with two new lineages, namely H. laevigata and H. tropica, which were recovered. Hyphodermella aurantiaca and H. zixishanensis are members of Roseograndinia, while R. jilinensis is proved to be a later synonym of H. aurantiaca. In the Phlebiopsis clade, P. cana sp. nov. was found on the bamboo from tropical Asia. In the Rhizochaete clade, four new species, R. nakasoneae, R. subradicata, R. terrestris, and R. yunnanensis were recovered based mainly on molecular analyses. In the Phanerochaete clade, P. subsanguinea nom. nov. is proposed to replace Phanerochaete rhizomorpha C.L. Zhao & D.Q. Wang, which is an invalid name because it was published after Phanerochaete rhizomorpha C.C. Chen, Sheng H. Wu & S.H. He, representing another species. Descriptions and illustrations are provided for the new species, and discussions are given for new taxa and names. Identification keys to Hyphodermella species worldwide and Rhizochaete species in China are given separately.

Hesperomyces (Fungi, Ascomycota) associated with Hyperaspis ladybirds (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae): Rethinking host specificity

Laboulbeniales (Ascomycota, Laboulbeniomycetes) are biotrophic microfungi always attached to the exoskeleton of their arthropod hosts. They do not form hyphae or a mycelium; instead, they undergo determinate growth, developing from a two-celled ascospore to form a multicellular thallus. Hesperomyces virescens has been reported on over 30 species of ladybirds (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae); in reality, it represents a complex of species, presumably segregated by host genus association. In this study, we report on Hesperomyces thalli on Hyperaspis vinciguerrae from the Canary Islands and compare them with the Hesperomyces hyperaspidis described on Hyperaspis sp. from Trinidad. We generated the sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the large subunit (LSU) nuclear ribosomal RNA gene, and the minichromosome maintenance complex component 7 (MCM7) protein-coding gene. Our phylogenetic reconstruction of Hesperomyces based on a concatenated ITS-LSU-MCM7 dataset revealed Hesperomyces sp. ex Hy. vinciguerrae as a member of the He. virescens species complex distinct from He. virescens sensu stricto (s.s.). It also revealed that the Hesperomyces sp. ex Chilocorus bipustulatus from Algeria is different from He. virescens s.s., which is associated with Chilocorus stigma from the USA. This suggests that the species of Hesperomyces are not solely segregated by host association, but that there is also a biogeographical component involved. Based on these data, we refrained from referring our material from Hy. vinciguerrae to He. hyperaspidis. Finally, we discuss the usefulness of MCM7 as a useful marker for species delimitation in Hesperomyces.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1436-1477

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Argentina, Colletotrichum araujiae on leaves, stems and fruits of Araujia hortorum. Australia, Agaricus pateritonsus on soil, Curvularia fraserae on dying leaf of Bothriochloa insculpta, Curvularia millisiae from yellowing leaf tips of Cyperus aromaticus, Marasmius brunneolorobustus on well-rotted wood, Nigrospora cooperae from necrotic leaf of Heteropogon contortus, Penicillium tealii from the body of a dead spider, Pseudocercospora robertsiorum from leaf spots of Senna tora, Talaromyces atkinsoniae from gills of Marasmius crinis-equi and Zasmidium pearceae from leaf spots of Smilaxglyciphylla. Brazil, Preussia bezerrensis from air. Chile, Paraconiothyrium kelleni from the rhizosphere of Fragaria chiloensis subsp. chiloensis f. chiloensis. Finland, Inocybe udicola on soil in mixed forest with Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Picea abies and Alnus incana. France, Myrmecridium normannianum on dead culm of unidentified Poaceae. Germany, Vexillomyces fraxinicola from symptomless stem wood of Fraxinus excelsior. India, Diaporthe limoniae on infected fruit of Limonia acidissima, Didymella naikii on leaves of Cajanus cajan, and Fulvifomes mangroviensis on basal trunk of Aegiceras corniculatum. Indonesia, Penicillium ezekielii from Zea mays kernels. Namibia, Neocamarosporium calicoremae and Neocladosporium calicoremae on stems of Calicorema capitata, and Pleiochaeta adenolobi on symptomatic leaves of Adenolobus pechuelii. Netherlands, Chalara pteridii on stems of Pteridium aquilinum, Neomackenziella juncicola (incl. Neomackenziella gen. nov.) and Sporidesmiella junci from dead culms of Juncus effusus. Pakistan, Inocybe longistipitata on soil in a Quercus forest. Poland, Phytophthora viadrina from rhizosphere soil of Quercus robur, and Septoria krystynae on leaf spots of Viscum album. Portugal (Azores), Acrogenospora stellata on dead wood or bark. South Africa, Phyllactinia greyiae on leaves of Greyia sutherlandii and Punctelia anae on bark of Vachellia karroo. Spain, Anteaglonium lusitanicum on decaying wood of Prunus lusitanica subsp. lusitanica, Hawksworthiomyces riparius from fluvial sediments, Lophiostoma carabassense endophytic in roots of Limbarda crithmoides, and Tuber mohedanoi from calcareus soils. Spain (Canary Islands), Mycena laurisilvae on stumps and woody debris. Sweden, Elaphomyces geminus from soil under Quercus robur. Thailand, Lactifluus chiangraiensis on soil under Pinus merkusii, Lactifluus nakhonphanomensis and Xerocomus sisongkhramensis on soil under Dipterocarpus trees. Ukraine, Valsonectria robiniae on dead twigs of Robinia hispida. USA, Spiralomyces americanus (incl. Spiralomyces gen. nov.) from office air. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Tan YP, Bishop-Hurley SL, Shivas RG, et al. 2022. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1436-1477. Persoonia 49: 261-350. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2022.49.08.

Two New Species and a New Record of Microdochium from Grasses in Yunnan Province, South-West China

Microdochium species are frequently reported as phytopathogens on various plants and also as saprobic and soil-inhabiting organisms. As a pathogen, they mainly affect grasses and cereals, causing severe disease in economically valuable crops, resulting in reduced yield and, thus, economic loss. Numerous asexual Microdochium species have been described and reported as hyphomycetous. However, the sexual morph is not often found. The main purpose of this study was to describe and illustrate two new species and a new record of Microdochium based on morphological characterization and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses. Surveys of both asexual and sexual morph specimens were conducted from March to June 2021 in Yunnan Province, China. Here, we introduce Microdochium graminearum and M. shilinense, from dead herbaceous stems of grasses and report M. bolleyi as an endophyte of Setaria parviflora leaves. This study improves the understanding of Microdochium species on monocotyledonous flowering plants in East Asia. A summary of the morphological characteristics of the genus and detailed references are provided for use in future research.

Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Fungi Associated with Mangifera indica from Yunnan, China

During investigations of saprobic fungi associated with mango (Mangifera indica) in Baoshan and Honghe of Yunnan Province (China), fungal taxa belonging to the orders Botryosphaeriales, Calosphaeriales, Chaetothyriales, Diaporthales, and Xylariales were recorded. Morphological examinations coupled with phylogenetic analyses of multigene sequences (ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, rpb1, rpb2, β-tubulin and CAL) were used to identify the fungal taxa. A new genus viz. Mangifericola, four new species viz. Cyphellophora hongheensis, Diaporthe hongheensis, Hypoxylon hongheensis, and Mangifericola hongheensis, four new host and geographical records viz. Aplosporella artocarpi, Hypomontagnella monticulosa, Paraeutypella citricola and Pleurostoma ootheca, and two new collections of Lasiodiplodia are reported.

Taxonomy and multi-gene phylogeny of Micropsalliota (Agaricales, Agaricaceae) with description of six new species from China

Micropsalliota is a relatively small genus containing only 62 previously identified species. Here, we describe six new taxa of Micropsalliota based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses: M. minor, M. ovalispora, M. pseudodelicatula, M. rufosquarrosa, M. tenuipes, and M. wuyishanensis and a new record taxon to China. The first Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses of a three-gene dataset (ITS, LSU, and rpb2) separated the genus into 18 weakly to strongly supported major clades and subclades, but only a few subclades were synapomorphies. According to phylogenetic analyses, M. cornuta does not belong in Micropsalliota. A key to 20 species of Micropsalliota in China is provided.

Phaeoisarialaianensis (Pleurotheciales, Pleurotheciaceae), a new species from freshwater habitats in China

Background

Freshwater fungi play an indispensable role in the ecosystem and have great research value. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses of a concatenated dataset of ITS, LSU and SSU sequences, a new species, Phaeoisarialaianensis, was introduced as a freshwater hyphomycete from Anhui Province, China.

New information

Phaeoisarialaianensis was morphologically described as erect, rigid, dark brown to black, velvety synnemata which has macronematous, septate, branched, brown to dark brown, parallel adpressed conidiophores with polyblastic, integrated, terminal, hyaline to pale brown, smooth, denticulate, sympodial conidiogenous cells and ellipsoidal to obovoid, rounded at the apex, obtuse and tapering towards base, septate, guttulate conidia. Based on molecular and morphological characteristics, it is confirmed to be a new species. All illustrations and descriptions have been provided.

The Introduction of Two New Species of Aquatic Fungi from Anzali Lagoon, Northern Iran

During a survey of aquatic fungi from Anzali Lagoon in Iran, several fungal specimens were isolated from freshwater habitats. Morphological evidence and comparing sequencing based on rDNA (ITS and LSU) and protein-coding genes (TEF1 and TUB2) showed that some isolates belong to undescribed fungal species. These isolates belong to Arthrobotrys and Sarocladium, two ascomycetes genera. Arthrobotrys hyrcanus, sp. nov., differs from closely related species such as A. dianchiensis by its larger conidia and septation of primary conidia. Sarocladium pseudokiliense, sp. nov., was similar to S. kiliense, but distinguished by its conidial shape and the absence of adelophialides and chlamydospores. Morphological descriptions, illustrations and multilocus phylogenetic analysis for both new species are provided.

Identification and Pathogenicity of Paramyrothecium Species Associated with Leaf Spot Disease in Northern Thailand

Species of Paramyrothecium that are reported as plant pathogens and cause leaf spot or leaf blight have been reported on many commercial crops worldwide. In 2019, during a survey of fungi causing leaf spots on plants in Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces, northern Thailand, 16 isolates from 14 host species across nine plant families were collected. A new species Paramyrothecium vignicola sp. nov. was identified based on morphology and concatenated (ITS, cmdA, rpb2, and tub2) phylogeny. Further, P. breviseta and P. foliicola represented novel geographic records to Thailand, while P. eichhorniae represented a novel host record (Psophocarpus sp., Centrosema sp., Aristolochia sp.). These species were confirmed to be the causal agents of the leaf spot disease through pathogenicity assay. Furthermore, cross pathogenicity tests on Coffea arabica L., Commelina benghalensis L., Glycine max (L.) Merr., and Dieffenbachia seguine (Jacq.) Schott revealed multiple host ranges for these pathogens. Further research is required into the host-pathogen relationship of Paramyrothecium species that cause leaf spot and their management. Biotic and abiotic stresses caused by climate change may affect plant health and disease susceptibility. Hence, proper identification and monitoring of fungal communities in the environment are important to understand emerging diseases and for implementation of disease management strategies.

Do Biotic and Abiotic Factors Influence the Prevalence of a Common Parasite of the Invasive Alien Ladybird Harmonia axyridis?

Hesperomyces virescens (Ascomycota, Laboulbeniales), a fungal ectoparasite, is thus far reported on Harmonia axyridis from five continents: North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. While it is known that He. virescens can cause mortality of Ha. axyridis under laboratory conditions, the role of biotic and abiotic factors in influencing the distribution of He. virescens in the field is unknown. We collected and screened 3,568 adult Ha. axyridis from 23 locations in seven countries in Central Europe between October and November 2018 to test the effect of selected host characters and climate and landscape variables on the infection probability with He. virescens. Mean parasite prevalence of He. virescens on Ha. axyridis was 17.9%, ranging among samples from 0 to 46.4%. Host sex, climate, and landscape composition did not have any significant effect on the infection probability of He. virescens on Ha. axyridis. Two color forms, f. conspicua and f. spectabilis, had a significantly lower parasite prevalence compared to the common Ha. axyridis f. novemdecimsignata.