[Funga • 2025] Samsoniella scoliopterygis (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) • A New Species of Samsoniella on the herald moth, Scoliopteryx libatrix (Noctuoidea: Erebidae), from caves in the British Isles

Samsoniella scoliopterygis  H.C. Evans & J.P.M. Araújo,

in Evans, Fogg, Buddie, Yeap et Araújo. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3114/fuse.2025.15.09 

 

Abstract

Samsoniella scoliopterygis (Cordycipitaceae: Hypocreales), pathogenic on the herald moth Scoliopteryx libatrix (Erebidae: Noctuoidea), is described as a new species, based on morphological, ecological and molecular evidence. Infected specimens of this troglophilic moth were recorded from caves, as well as from a copper mine, in southern England (Devon, Norfolk), Northern Ireland (Fermanagh) and the Republic of Ireland (Sligo). The moths were found consistently on the cave floor or rock ledges, rather than on the ceiling amongst the overwintering, healthy moth populations; producing multiple, white or non-pigmented clavae of the cordyceps-like sexual morph. Synnemata of the asexual morph occurred sporadically in situ but were produced consistently in vitro. The ecology and taxonomy are discussed in relation to previous records of entomopathogenic fungi on Scoliopteryx libatrix and other trogloxene moths.

 Keywords: Samsoniella scoliopterygis; ecology; entomopathogenic fungi; new taxon; phylogenetics; systematics 

Samsoniella scoliopterygis sp. nov., holotype IMI 507611.
A, B. Sexual morph on herald moth, (Scoliopteryx libatrix), dried specimen from floor of Boho Caves (Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland), showing the superficial perithecia on stromata emerging from the dorsal surface and orifices (mouth and anus). C, D. Transverse section of an ascostroma showing the superficial, flask-shaped perithecia with a wide, prominent neck region and wall. E. Perithecial tip showing the asci and ascospores oozing from the ostiole. F. Ascus showing prominent cap.

 Scale bars: A, B = 2 mm; C = 100 µm; D = 30 µm; E = 15 µm; F = 5 µm.

Samsoniella scoliopterygis, IMI 507613, on herald moths in situ in Boho Caves, July 2024.
 A. Infected moth on ledge in twilight zone (arrow), ca. 6 m from cave entrance in background. B. Close-up of stromata showing the white, superficial, crowded perithecia. C–E. Infected moths in various positions within the dark zone of the cave system, all with white stromata.

Scale bars: B = 1 mm; C, E = 8 mm; D = 5 mm.

Samsoniella scoliopterygis H.C. Evans & J.P.M. Araújo, sp. nov.

 

H.C. Evans, T. Fogg, A.G. Buddie, Y.T. Yeap and J.P.M. Araújo. 2025. A New Species of Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae: Hypocreales) on the herald moth, Scoliopteryx libatrix (Erebidae: Noctuoidea), from caves in the British Isles. Fungal Systematics and Evolution. 15(1); 201-224. DOI: doi.org/10.3114/fuse.2025.15.09 (June 2025) 

x.com/joaofungo/status/1885628021882659155

[Fungi • 2026] Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata • Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Pleurocordyceps (Hypocreales: Polycephalomycetaceae) associated with Ants and Cicadas from Malaysia, including A New Species and New Records

  

Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata 

in Shahbaz, Mohadden, Rong, Wei et Seelan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.4.1

 

Abstract

Pleurocordyceps is a group of hyperparasites that infects invertebrates, plants, and other fungi. It belongs to the family Polycephalomycetaceae, a newly established family separated from Ophiocordycipitaceae, order Hypocreales which includes several genera such as Dingleyomyces, Paradingleyomyces, Perennicordyceps, Pleurocordyceps, and Polycephalomyces. Pleurocordyceps currently comprises 26 species reported from South American and Asian regions In Asia, Malaysia has diverse forest ecosystems and rich fungal diversity; however, no previous studies have been reported on the occurrence of Pleurocordyceps species. The aim of the study is to explore the Pleurocordyceps diversity tropical rainforests of Malaysia using morpho-molecular analyses. During a fungal survey in Malaysia, fungicolous fungus associated with ants and cicadas nymphs were collected and subjected to morphological and molecular assessments. Two genetic loci—the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-1α) gene—were used to construct both individual and concatenated phylogenetic trees. The study describes a new species, Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata sp. nov. (BORH/F03651) from an ant, and two new records of P. aurantiaca (BORH/F03651), and P. nipponica (UTHM-CEF003.1) from Diptera and cicada nymph, respectively. These findings expand the knowledge of the geographic distribution of Pleurocordyceps and provide the first baseline data for the genus in Malaysia, thereby improving understanding of the diversity and evolutionary relationships within Polycephalomycetaceae.

arthropod hosts, entomopathogenic fungi, Pleurocordyceps, synnema, three taxa, typification, Fungi

Pleurocordyceps cornusynnemata sp. nov. 

MUHAMMAD SHAHBAZ, FIRDZA ZULKARNAIN MOHADDEN, JEREMIAH SIA YIAO RONG, YAP JING WEI and JAYA SEELAN SATHIYA SEELAN. 2026. Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Pleurocordyceps (Polycephalomycetaceae, Hypocreales) associated with Ants and Cicadas from Malaysia, including A New Species and New Records.  Phytotaxa. 750(4); 219-237. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.4.1 [2026-04-09]

[Fungi • 2026] Leptobacillium geminatum • A New Species of Leptobacillium and Additional Records of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium (Ascomycota: Cordycipitaceae) from Sabah, Malaysia

Leptobacillium geminatum

in Shahbaz, De Wint, Rong, Wei, Koid, Fayle, Tan, Abdullah, Palaniveloo et Seelan, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/nzb2.70107 

Abstract

Simplicillium and Leptobacillium are entomopathogenic fungal genera frequently associated with arthropods in tropical ecosystems and considered promising candidates for biological pest control. However, the diversity of these genera in tropical regions, particularly in Malaysia, has not been systematically investigated in the context of their taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships. This study aimed to investigate the taxonomic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium using integrated morphological and molecular analyses. During a survey of entomopathogenic fungi conducted in Malaysia from 2022–2023, parasitized insects were collected, including spiders and wasps infected by entomopathogenic fungi. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using concatenated datasets of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) gene to construct phylogenetic trees. The study identified one novel species, Leptobacillium geminatum sp. nov., isolated from a spider. In addition, five species are reported here as new records for Malaysia: S. formicae, L. leptobactrum. symbioticum, and L. coffeanum isolated from spiders and S. puwenense, isolated from a wasp. Morphological characteristics together with molecular phylogenetic evidence supported the taxonomic placement of these taxa. These findings represent the first comprehensive documentation of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium species from Malaysia, significantly expanding the known diversity and geographical distribution of these entomopathogenic fungi in Southeast Asia.

Keywords: concatenation, fungal diversity, morphology, Northern Borneo, taxonomy

 Leptobacillium geminatum sp. nov.

Muhammad Shahbaz, Frederik C. De Wint, Jeremiah Sia Yiao Rong, Yap Jing Wei, Qian-Qun Koid, Tom Fayle, Yee Shin Tan, Sumaiyah Abdullah, Kishneth Palaniveloo, Jaya Seelan Sathiya Seelan. 2026. A New Species of Leptobacillium and Additional Records of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium from Sabah, Malaysia. New Zealand Journal of Botany. 64(2); DOI: doi.org/10.1002/nzb2.70107 [02 June 2026] 

[Funga • 2024] Hydnum cremeum, H. roseotangerinum, L. subalpina, ... (Agaricomycetes: Hydnaceae) • New Contributions on Species Diversity of Genus Hydnum and Lentaria s.l. in China

 

Hydnum cremeum  L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu,  
H. flavosquamosum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su, 
H.roseoalbum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & W.H. Zhang, 
H. roseotangerinum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su, 

in Su, Yu, Xue, Zhang, Xu, Xia, Li, Lei, Dong, Zhang et Tang, 2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof10120824 

 

Abstract

Southwest China is extremely rich in fungal resources, and a large number of new taxa have been discovered in recent years. In the present study, we examined 26 specimens of the genera Hydnum and Lentaria sensu lato, most of which were obtained in Yunnan Province. Through ITS-nrLSU-tef1 phylogenetic analysis, combined with morphological studies and geographic analyses, five new species were described, viz. Hydnum cremeum, H. flavoquamosum, H. roseoalbum, H. roseotangerinum, and L. subalpina. Furthermore, we also supplied new information on some known species, including host plants and new distribution records. We re-examined the holotype sequences of two known taxa, H. flabellatum and H. pallidomarginatum, treating H. flabellatum as a synonym of H. pallidomarginatum. Additionally, a key to Lentaria s.l. in China was provided.

Keywords: taxonomy; species delimitation; coralloid fungi; edible mushroom; spinous fungi 

Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum cremeum. (a–c) Basidiomata, (a,c) from MHKMU TJ Yu 197, Holotype; (b) from MHKMU WH Zhang 599; (d) Basidiospores; (e) Basidia and Basidioles; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (d) = 10 μm; (e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm.
Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum flavosquamosum from MHKMU LP Tang 3454 (Holotype). (a–c) Basidiomata; (d) Basidiospores; (e) Basidia and Basidioles; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (d) = 10 μm; (e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm. 
 Macroscopic and microscopic features of Hydnum roseotangerinum from MHKMU LP Tang 3458 (Holotype). (a,b) Basidiomata; (c) Basidiospores; (d) Basidioles; (e) Basidia; (f) Pileipellis. Bars (c) = 10 μm; (d,e) = 20 μm; (f) = 50 μm.

Hydnum cremeum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu sp. nov.  

奶油齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘cremeum’ = cream, refers to the color of basidiomata.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum mainly by its small basidiomata with a warm cream to yellowish white pileus, globose to subglobose basidiospores, and occurrence in subalpine mixed forests.

Hydnum flavosquamosum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su sp. nov.  

黄鳞齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘flavo’ = yellow, ‘squamosum’ = scaly, refers to the pileus covering with yellowish brown scales.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum mainly by its light yellow to light brownish-orange pileus with slightly dark scales, context becoming pale brownish on exposure, adnexed, spines, subglobose to broadly ellipsoid (Q = 1.05–1.23) basidiospores, and erectly arranged hyphae in pileipellis.

Hydnum roseoalbum L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & W.H. Zhang sp. nov. 

粉白齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘roseo’ = pink, ‘album’ = white, refers to the color of its spines. 

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum by its creamy to whitish pileus, pale pink spines, five-spored basidia, globose basidiospores, erectly arranged hyphae in pileipellis, and occurrence in subalpine broad-leaved forests.

Hydnum roseotangerinum L.P. Tang & L.J. Su sp. nov. 

粉橙齿菌

Etymology—Latin ‘roseo’ = pink, ‘tangerinum’ = orange, refers to the color of spines.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other species within Hydnum by its brownish orange pileus, pinkish orange spines, globose to subglobose, sometimes broadly ellipsoid basidiospores, and occurrence in mixed subalpine forests.

Lentaria subalpina L.P. Tang, L.J. Su & T.J. Yu sp. nov.  

亚高山木瑚菌

Etymology—The Latin ‘subalpina’ refers to this species growing in subalpine forests.

Diagnosis—Distinct from other Lentaria species mainly due to the grayish orange to brownish orange basidiomata, sometimes carbonized, black branch apices, elongated ellipsoid to cylindrical basidiospores (9.0–11.0 × 4.8–5.7 μm), and growing in dead branches of Abies or Picea in subalpine forests.

 Linjie Su, Taijie Yu, Rou Xue, Wenhao Zhang, Chang Xu, Xing Xia, Jia Li, Hanchi Lei, Yang Dong, Guoli Zhang and Liping Tang. 2024. New Contributions on Species Diversity of Genus Hydnum and Lentaria s.l. in China. J. Fungi. 10(12), 824; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof10120824 [27 November 2024]

[Funga • 2025] Gymnopus sinobrevipes, G. flavoalbus & G. yunnanensis (Agaricomycetes: Agaricales: Omphalotaceae) • Species Diversity of Gymnopus Section Levipedes in Southwestern China, with a Description of Three New Species

 

(a–c) Gymnopus flavoalbus ((a,b) Holotype, KUN-HKAS144470, (c) KUN-HKAS144471);
(d–f) G. sinobrevipes ((d,e) Holotype, KUN-HKAS108042, (f) KUN-HKAS108101);
(g–i) G. yunnanensis ((g,h): Holotype, KUN-HKAS108570, (i) KUN-HKAS108610).

W.C. Feng, Y.Y. Cui and Q. Cai, 

in Feng, Li, Cui et Cai. 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof11020088 

Bars = 2 cm.

 

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Agaricales; Omphalotaceae; phylogeny; morphology; three new taxa; taxonomy

 Basidiomata of novel species in Gymnopus sect. Levipedes from southwestern China.
(a–c) G. flavoalbus ((a,b) Holotype, KUN-HKAS144470, (c) KUN-HKAS144471);
 (d–f) G. sinobrevipes ((d,e) Holotype, KUN-HKAS108042, (f) KUN-HKAS108101);
 (g–i) G. yunnanensis ((g,h): Holotype, KUN-HKAS108570, (i) KUN-HKAS108610).

Bars = 2 cm.

Gymnopus flavoalbus W.C. Feng, Y.Y. Cui and Q. Cai, sp. nov. 

Etymology: Referring to the pale yellow center and whitish margin of the pileus.

Diagnosis: Similar to G. macropus Halling, but differs by its light-colored pileus, furcate cheilocystidia, and pileipellis with broadly clavate to spherical terminal cells without pigments.

Gymnopus sinobrevipes W.C. Feng, Y.Y. Cui and Q. Cai, sp. nov. 

Etymology: Referring to the species from China and having short stipe.

Diagnosis: Similar to G. tiliicola J.J. Hu, B. Zhang, and Yu Li, but differs in its smaller pileus and cheilocystidia with knobs.

Gymnopus yunnanensis W.C. Feng, Y.Y. Cui and Q. Cai, sp. nov. 

Etymology: Referring to the locality, Yunnan Province, China, where the holotype was collected.

Diagnosis: Similar to G. dryophiloides, but differs in its oblong to subcylindrical basidiospores and the absence of rhizomorphs at the stipe base.

 Wei-Chao Feng, Xiao-Yan Li, Yang-Yang Cui and Qing Cai. 2025. Species Diversity of Gymnopus Section Levipedes in Southwestern China, with a Description of Three New Species. J. Fungi. 11(2), 88; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/jof11020088 [23 January 2025]

[Fungi • 2026] Leucoinocybe danxiashanensis & L. haizhuensis (Basidiomycota: Agaricales) • Two mycenoid Species from southern China

 

[A-B] Leucoinocybe danxiashanensis Ming Zhang, T.H. Li & Xiang L. Chen,
[C-D] L. haizhuensis Ming Zhang, C.X. Fan & W.X. Xia,

in Xia, Wang, Chen, Sun, Fan, Li, Deng, Yue et Zhang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.129.174720

Abstract

Two new species of Leucoinocybe from southern China are described, illustrated, and compared with phenotypically similar and phylogenetically related species. Morphologically, L. danxiashanensis sp. nov. is characterized by its mycenoid basidiomata, light brown to brownish orange pileus with faintly yellow striations, decurrent lamellae, abundant lageniform to obclavate and thin-walled cystidia on pileus and stipe surface, and broadly ellipsoid to subamygdaliform basidiospores; and L. haizhuensis sp. nov. is characterized by its mycenoid basidiomata, brown, light brown to yellowish white pileus with pubescent, 2-spored basidia, ovoid, diverse cheilocystidia and elliptical to broadly elliptical basidiospores. Phylogenetic analyses based on sequences of the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nrLSU) and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) supported them as two distinct species of Leucoinocybe.

Key words: Mycenoid, new taxon, phylogeny, Porotheleaceae, taxonomy

Basidiomata of Leucoinocybe danxiashanensis. A. Collection GDGM 80114 (holotype); B. Collection GDGM 80184. Scale bars: 10 mm (A, B). 
Basidiomata of Leucoinocybe haizhuensis. A, B. Collection GDGM 102360 (holotype); C. Collection GDGM 95340; D. Collection GDGM 99420. Scale bars: 10 mm (A–D).

Leucoinocybe danxiashanensis Ming Zhang, T.H. Li & Xiang L. Chen, sp. nov.

Leucoinocybe haizhuensis Ming Zhang, C.X. Fan & W.X. Xia, sp. nov.

 Wen-Xiao Xia, Chao-Qun Wang, Xiang-Lian Chen, Rui-Hua Sun, Cun-Xiang Fan, Tai-Hui Li, Wang-Qiu Deng, Hai-Mei Yue and Ming Zhang. 2026. Two mycenoid Species of Leucoinocybe (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from southern China.  MycoKeys. 129: 325-343. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.129.174720  [12 Mar 2026]

[Funga • 2025] Hydnellum hangzhouense (Agaricomycetes: Thelephorales) • Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny reveal One New Species from Eastern China

 

Hydnellum hangzhouense X.P. Fan, Y.F. Sun & B.K. Cui, 

in Fan, Song, Xu, Sun et Cui, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.711.1.3  

 Researchgate.net/publication/393904694

Abstract

As ectomycorrhizal fungi, the species in Hydnellum can form a mutualistic symbiosis with plant roots to promote the restoration of forest vegetation and the stability of forest ecosystems. Some Hydnellum fungi also have edible and medicinal values generating considerable economic benefits. In this study, a new species of Hydnellum collected from Hangzhou, eastern China, was described by utilizing morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Morphologically, Hydnellum hangzhouense was characterized by its light-colored and relatively thick pileus, simple septated generative hyphae, and subglobose to ellipsoid basidiospores. The phylogenetic analysis was conducted based on the combined sequences dataset (ITS + nLSU + nSSU + rpb2). The results indicated that H. hangzhouense formed an independent lineage which is closely related to H. crassipileatum and H. chocolatum. The detailed description, illustrations and phylogenetic tree for demonstrating the taxonomic positions of H. hangzhouense were provided.

Key words: macrofungi, multi-gene phylogeny, novel species, stipitate hydnoids, taxonomy, Fungi

Basidiomata of Hydnellum hangzhouense (Holotype, Wu 1679).

 Scale bars: 2 cm.

Microscopic structures of Hydnellum hangzhouense (Holotype, Wu 1679).
 A) Basidiospores. B) Hyphae from context. C) Basidia and basidioles. D) Hyphae from spines. E) Hyphae from the inner layer of stipe. F) Hyphae from the surface layer of stipe.

Hydnellum hangzhouense X.P. Fan, Y.F. Sun & B.K. Cui sp. nov.

 

XIANG-PING FAN, CHANG-GE SONG, YI-HUA XU, YI-FEI SUN and BAO-KAI CUI. 2025. Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny reveal One New Species of Hydnellum (Thelephorales) from Eastern China.  Phytotaxa. 711(1); 43-60. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.711.1.3 [2025-07-22] 

 Researchgate.net/publication/393904694_new_species_of_Hydnellum_from_Eastern_China

[Fungi • 2026] Leucocoprinus roseus (Basidiomycota: Agaricaceae) • Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Analyses revealed A New Species from Punjab, Pakistan

Leucocoprinus roseus W. Akram, Saba & Asif,  

in Akram, Saba, Asif, Nawaz, F. Ullah, Samen, Maula et M. Ullah, 2026. 

  DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05015

 

Abstract

In this article, we describe a new fungal species, Leucocoprinus roseus, collected in Canal View Park, District Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab, Pakistan. The species is proposed as new based on detailed morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analysis using nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) sequences. In a phylogenetic reconstruction, L. roseus forms a distinct clade clearly separated from related taxa. It is characterized by small basidiomata, a plano-convex pileus with dark red center becoming pale reddish toward the margins, center covered with squarrose scales, broadly ellipsoid amygdaliform basidiospores and versiform cheilocystidia. A comprehensive description, illustrations, and results of the phylogenetic analysis are provided, along with a comparison with morphologically and genetically related species.

Keywords: molecular phylogeny, Mandi Bahauddin, nrITS, saprotrophic, taxonomy

Macro–Morphological features (a–f) Fresh field pictures of basidiomata of Leucocoprinus roseus.

Photos by: Muhammad Asif and Wajahat Akram.

Leucocoprinus roseus W. Akram, Saba & Asif sp. nov. 

 

Wajahat Akram, Malka Saba, Muhammad Asif, Ayesha Nawaz, Fahim Ullah, Warda Samen, Fazli Maula and Mohsin Ullah. 2026. Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Analyses revealed A New Species, Leucocoprinus roseus (Agaricaceae, Basidiomycota), from Punjab, Pakistan. Nordic Journal of Botany.  DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05015 [28 January 2026]

[Fungi • 2026] Gibellula mineira • The Silent Hunters of Spiders: Discovering A New Gibellula (Ascomycota: Cordycipitaceae) Fungus in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Iguarima censoria (Anyphaenidae) spiders

unparasitized and parasitized by Gibellula mineira sp. nov.

Santos, Mendes-Pereira, Ribeiro & Kloss. 2026 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.funbio.2026.101748

 

Abstract

In tropical forests, there is a high diversity of parasites that use arthropods as resource, particularly arachnids. One of the most frequent groups of spiders’ parasites in tropical forests are fungi of the genus Gibellula, for which a considerable knowledge gap remains in these environments. In this study, we present the description of a new species that infects spiders of the species Iguarima censoria (Anyphaenidae) in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, Gibellula mineira sp. nov. We also described the prevalence of the new fungal species in the host spider population and evaluated whether the host size influences their probability of parasitism. Morphological and molecular analyses revealed that G. mineira represents a distinct species forming a clade with 100% support of bootstrap and showing a close phylogenetic relationship with Gibellula aurea. The characteristics that distinguish it from other species of the genus include light brown hyphae, white and slightly larger conidiophores, and thinner phialides. We observed a high prevalence of parasitism in this interaction, reaching 25% of the observed I. censoria population. Furthermore, we noted that the cadavers of parasitized spiders are exclusively attached to the underside of leaves, following the typical pattern observed for Gibellula species. Parasitism is more frequent in smaller I. censoria individuals, which is probably associated with thinner cuticles or higher foraging activity in smaller individuals. We suggested that G. mineira is an important natural enemy of I. censoria, directly influencing the population dynamics of this spider and expanding our knowledge of the ecology and biodiversity of araneopathogenic fungi.

 

Keywords: Hypocreales, Araneae, Behavioral manipulation, Parasitism, Araneopathogenic fungi

 Iguarima censoria (Anyphaenidae) spiders unparasitized and parasitized by Gibellula mineira sp. nov.
(A) Unparasitized individual foraging in vegetation; (B) Silk retreat built by unparasitized spiders on the leaf lamina;
(C) Adult I. censoria individual infected by G. mineira at an early stage of fungal development; (D) G. mineira colony at mature stage of development;
(E) I. censoria individual showing newly formed synnemata (white); (F) I. censoria individual showing mature synnemata (light brown);
(G) Detail of a white synnema, at the beginning of development, with conidiophores showing chains of conidia; (H) Developed light brown synnema, with dense, white conidiophores.

Scale bars: E, G, H = 1 mm.  

Gibellula mineira sp. nov. 

Aline dos Santos, Thairine Mendes-Pereira, Camila de Fátima Ferreira Ribeiro and Thiago Gechel Kloss. 2026. The Silent Hunters of Spiders: Discovering A New Gibellula (Ascomycota: Cordycipitaceae) Fungus in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Fungal Biology. 130(3); 101748. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.funbio.2026.101748

[Fungi • 2024] Mooraboolomyces wintlei (Mucoromycota: Mucoraceae) • A New Genus and Species from Victoria, Australia

  

Mooraboolomyces wintlei  C.P. Hull, A.S. Urquhart & A. Idnurm, 

in Hull, Urquhart et Idnurm. 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.644.1.5 

Researchgate.net/publication/379691732

Abstract

A new genus and species in the Mucoromycota, Mooraboolomyces wintlei, was isolated into culture from leaf litter from a national park in Victoria, Australia, and is described. The strain reproduced asexually to form sporangia and sporangiospores, with no production of zygospores, and sequencing of its genome and analysis supported a heterothallic mode of reproduction. Phylogenetic analyses using five DNA regions placed the strain within the Mucorales and Mucoraceae, clearly distinct from previously described genera. This represents the second genus in this phylum that has been identified from Australia and that is currently unique to this country.

biodiversity, heterothallism, Mucorales, sex locus, zygomycete, Fungi

 Physical properties of Mooraboolomyces wintlei.
A. Photograph of the location from where the species was obtained. B. Petri dish plates (9 cm diameter) from above (top) or below (bottom) after 13 days at 23 °C on PDA. C. Edge of growing culture with the fungus illuminated to show examples of sporangia and spores extending beyond the starting culture to initiate new growth to account for the images in B. D. Two sporangia. E. Scanning electron microscopy of the spores in a sporangium. F. Columella, featuring the dark structure at its base. G. Asexual spores. Scale bars: C = 1 cm, D = 40 µm, E = 6 µm, F, G = 10 µm.

CAITLIN P. Hull, ANDREW S. Urquhart and ALEXANDER Idnurm. 2024. Mooraboolomyces wintlei gen. & sp. nov. from Victoria, Australia.  Phytotaxa. 644(1); 35-41. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.644.1.5 [2024-04-09]

 Researchgate.net/publication/379691732_Mooraboolomyces_wintlei_gen_sp_nov_from_Victoria_Australia

[Funga • 2025] Phaeoclavulina aurea & P. fulva (Agaricomycetes: Gomphaceae) • Two New Species from North China based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis

   

[A–C] Phaeoclavulina aurea; [D–F] P. fulva  

Y. Gao, X. Tong, & C.L. Hou, 

in Tong, Gao, Wang, Zhou et Hou, 2025.  

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.120.138950

Abstract

Two new species, Phaeoclavulina aurea and P. fulva, were discovered and described from North China. Identification was based on morphological observations combined with phylogenetic analysis of nrITS–nrLSU sequences. Phaeoclavulina aurea is characterized by its pale yellow to golden yellow basidiomata, brownish black coloration with dark tips at maturity, and basidiospores bearing truncate spines. Phaeoclavulina fulva is distinguished by its dirty orange basidiomata, pale yellow stipe surface, and basidiospores ornamented with rounded warts. This study enriches the species diversity of Phaeoclavulina in North China.

Key words: Clavarioid fungi, new taxa, systematics, taxonomy

Morphology of Basidiomata.
A–C. Phaeoclavulina aurea (A, B. BJM 344955 holotype; C. BJTC L007);
D–F. Phaeoclavulina fulva (D. BJTC C274 holotype; E. BJTC ZH0015; F. BJTC ZH1138).

Scale bars: 1 cm.

 Phaeoclavulina aurea Y. Gao, X. Tong, & C.L. Hou, sp. nov.

Etymology. The epithet “aurea” refers to the yellow to golden yellow basidiomata.

 Phaeoclavulina fulva Y. Gao, X. Tong, & C.L. Hou, sp. nov.

Etymology. The epithet “fulvus” refers to the dirty orange to yellowish-brown basidiomata.

 Xin Tong, Yue Gao, Hai-Qi Wang, Hao Zhou and Cheng-Lin Hou. 2025. Two New Species of Phaeoclavulina (Gomphaceae, Gomphales) from North China based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis. MycoKeys. 120: 157-172. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.120.138950 [29 Jul 2025]

[Fungi • 2020] Leucoagaricus callainitinctus • A New Species of Leucoagaricus section Piloselli (Agaricaceae) from tropical India

 

Leucoagaricus callainitinctus K.P.D. Latha, K.N.A. Raj & Manim.,

in Deepna Latha, Anil Raj et Manimohan, 2020.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.442.2.6 

 Researchgate.net/publication/341293876

Abstract

An interesting species of lepiotaceous fungi, Leucoagaricus callainitinctus sp. nov., is described from Kerala State, India based on morphology and molecular phylogeny. This species is distinguished by basidiocarps that turn dark turquoise on bruising/handling or reacting with NH4OH. A phylogenetic study was conducted based on Maximum likelihood analysis of nrITS sequences. In the phylogram, the new species nested as a distinct lineage in a group, which consisted predominantly of members of section Piloselli of the genus Leucoagaricus. A comprehensive description, photographs of the basidiocarps and the microscopic structures, comparisons with phenetically similar and phylogenetically related species and a phylogram showing the placement of the new species are provided.

Agaricales, Basidiomycota, lepiotoid fungi, phylogeny, taxonomy, Fungi

Leucoagaricus callainitinctus (CAL 1799, holotype).
A-B, D. Basidiocarps in their natural habitat; C. Basidiocarps showing their partial veil; E. Lamellae turning green when reacting with 10 % NH 4 OH.

Scale bars: A = 5 mm, B-E = 10 mm. Photos by: K. N. Anil Raj

Leucoagaricus callainitinctus sp. nov.

K. P. DEEPNA LATHA, K. N. ANIL RAJ and Patinjareveettil MANIMOHAN. 2020. Leucoagaricus callainitinctus—A New Species of Leucoagaricus section Piloselli (Agaricaceae) from tropical India. Phytotaxa. 442(2); 111–120. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.442.2.6 

 Researchgate.net/publication/341293876_Leucoagaricus_callainitinctus-a_new_species_from_tropical_India

[Fungi • 2025] Sirindhornea siamensis (Basidiomycota: Agaricomycetes) • A New Sequestrate Boletoid Genus of Boletaceae from Thailand

 

Sirindhornea siamensis  

in Lueangjaroenkit, Doungsin, Jangsantear, Boonwanno, Sintawarak, Sahathippayakul, Supapongsri, Sakolrak, Himaman et Sutthinon, 2025. 

เห็ดก้อนอำพันเจ้าฟ้า | DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267496

Abstract

This study investigates sequestrate boletes from southern Thailand and presents a morphologically distinctive specimen with a strong cantaloupe-like odor. Detailed morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, utilizing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit ribosomal RNA (LSU) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2) genes were performed to determine its taxonomic position. Nonetheless, the new sequestrate bolete exhibited a distinctive morphological features, including a scaly peridium, a characteristic cantaloupe-like odor at maturity. Together with molecular evidence, these characteristics clearly distinguish it from other sequestrate boletoid (Chamonixia, Durianella, Octaviania, Rossbeevera, and Turmalinea). These findings support the recognition of a novel genus within the subfamily Leccinoideae. Therefore, we propose a new genus and new species, Sirindhornea siamensis, for this sequestrate bolete species.

Keywords: fungal taxonomy, new genus, Leccinoideae, sequestrate boletes

  

Sirindhornea gen. nov.

เห็ดก้อนอำพันเจ้าฟ้า

Sirindhornea siamensis sp. nov. 

 Etymology.–The species epithet siamensis is named from the former name of Thailand, refers to the geographical origin of this new species.

Classification.–Leccinoideae,  Boletaceae,  Boletales, Agaricomycetes, Agaricomycotina, Basidiomycota

Piyangkun Lueangjaroenkit, Nootcharee Doungsin, Panrada Jangsantear; Tanyaporn Boonwanno; Phanin Sintawarak, Ananya Sahathippayakul, Vassana Supapongsri, Baramee Sakolrak, Winanda Himaman, Pornsawan Sutthinon. 2025. Sirindhornea siamensis, A New Sequestrate Boletoid Genus of Boletaceae from Thailand.  Tropical Natural History. Suppl. 8;  481-492. DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267496 

[Fungi • 2025] Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae f.a., sp. nov., Blastobotrys princeps f.a., sp. nov. & B. siamensis f.a., sp. nov. • Three Novel Ascomycetous Yeast Species Isolated from Plant Leaves and Wild Mushrooms Collected in Thailand

 

Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae f.a., sp. nov. TBRC 19863T.

 

in Khunnamwong, Gungprakhon, Nualthaisong, Sakolrak, Srisuk et Limtong, 2025. 

 Tropical Natural History. Suppl. 8; 

ยีสต์สิรินธร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267392

Abstract

Four yeast strains representing three novel species were isolated from two sources in Thailand, one from the leaf surface of a tall-stilt mangrove (Rhizophora apiculata, strain DMKU-RG45) and three from the fruiting bodies of wild mushrooms (strains DMKU-TM03, DMKU-SM11, and DMKU-SM28) collected in Thailand. Sequence analysis of the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region revealed that these four strains differed by 0.87–8.68% and 2.07–13.55% in their nucleotide divergence from their closest described species in the sequences of the D1/D2 domain of the LSU rRNA gene and the ITS region, respectively. In phylogenetic analyses, the strain DMKU-RG45 belonged to the genus Cyberlindnera and was distinct from other recognized species in this genus, whereas the strains DMKU-TM03, DMKU-SM11, and DMKU-SM28 were members of the genus Blastobotrys. However, they were in two different positions, each of which was distinct from closely related species. Based on molecular analyses and phenotypic characteristics, the strain DMKU-RG45 is proposed as Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae f.a., sp. nov. (the holotype is TBRC 19863T; MycoBank No. is MB 858763). The other three strains (DMKU-TM03, DMKU-SM11, and DMKU-SM28) are proposed as two novel Blastobotrys species. Blastobotrys princeps f.a., sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate the strain DMKU-TM03 (the holotype is TBRC 19382T; MycoBank No. is MB 858764). Blastobotrys siamensis f.a., sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate both strains DMKU-SM11 and DMKU-SM28 (the holotype is TBRC 19380T; MycoBank No. is MB 858765).

Keywords: Blastobotrys princeps, Blastobotrys siamensis, Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae, Mangrove Forest, Mushroom

Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae f.a., sp. nov. TBRC 19863T.
A‒C.colonies on YM agar after 7 days at 25 °C;
D.budding cells on YM agar after 3 days at 25 °C (bar, 10 μm);
E–G.pseudohyphae with blastoconidia grown on corn meal agar after 7 days at 25 °C.

Cyberlindnera sirindhorniae f.a., sp. nov. [the strain DMKU-RG45]

the holotype is TBRC 19863T; MycoBank No. is MB 858763

ยีสต์สิรินธร

Blastobotrys princeps f.a., sp. nov. [the strain DMKU-TM03]

(the holotype is TBRC 19382T; MycoBank No. is MB 858764)

ยีสต์เจ้าฟ้าหญิง

Blastobotrys siamensis f.a., sp. nov. [strains DMKU-SM11 and DMKU-SM28]

(the holotype is TBRC 19380T; MycoBank No. is MB 858765)

Pannida Khunnamwong, Pajongwan Gungprakhon, Panadda Nualthaisong, Baramee Sakolrak, Nanata Srisuk and Savitree Limtong. 2025. Three Novel Ascomycetous Yeast Species Isolated from Plant Leaves and Wild Mushrooms Collected in Thailand. Tropical Natural History. Suppl. 8; 399-414. DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267392 [2025-10-20]