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The sclerotia of Pachyma hoelen are one of the traditional Chinese medicines and foods that are widely used in East Asian countries. The strains used for cultivation showed bad performance in recent years, and breeding of superior strains has become increasingly important for this fungus. Nevertheless, the mating system and life cycle of P. hoelen were still ambiguous. In this study, the methods for distinguishing between homokaryotic offspring with different mating types were established, as well as confirmation of strain hybridization based on allelic polymorphism at a locus of the rpb2 gene. The bipolar mating system was confirmed according to the mating results of homokaryotic SSIs. The fact that heterokaryotic parents produce homokaryotic meiospores proves that the life cycle is heterothallic. Combining scanning electron microscope observation and DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) fluorescent staining of hymenium and basidiospores in situ and ex situ, nuclear migration pattern from basidia to spores was revealed. The heterothallic life cycle was verified, revised, and supplemented step by step. This is the first report of systematic research on the mating system, life cycle, and outcrossing of homokaryotic offspring in P. hoelen. It will be helpful for the biological research, strain improvement, and development of the P. hoelen industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cladosterigma clavariellum has been treated as a basidiomycete since its first description by Spegazzini in 1886 as Microcera clavariella. After further morphological studies, between 1919 and 2011, it remained among the basidiomycetes, most recently as incertae sedis in the order Cryptobasidiales. Our studies, based on light and scanning electron microscopy, supported by multilocus phylogenetic analyses—second-largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1), small subunit (18S), large subunit (28S), and nuclear internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 = ITS) of the nuclear rDNA sequences, and mitochondrial rDNA small subunit (mtSSU)—finally determined the phylogenetic placement of Cladosterigma as the first nonlichenicolous mycoparasitic member of the Gomphillaceae within the Graphidales, an ascomycete order previously composed predominantly of lichen-forming fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Bannoa consists of four described species associated with dead leaves in southwestern Japan. In this study, we describe three new species, Bannoa guamensis, B. rosea, and B. tropicalis, from the South Pacific island of Guam and Guyana in South America. Isolates were obtained from surfaces of diseased and healthy leaves of plants in the Euphorbiaceae, Asteraceae, and Poaceae. DNA sequences from four gene regions, including nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 (ITS), D1–D2 domains of nuc 28S rDNA (28S), nuc 18S rDNA (18S), and a portion of tef1, which encodes translation elongation factor 1-alpha, were produced for phylogenetic analysis. Intercompatibility tests were performed, and subsequent development of clamp connections and basidia were documented for B. tropicalis. Potential life history strategies and association with diseased leaves, including rust-infected leaves, were evaluated across the genus. This is the first report of a species of Bannoa from South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homolka's perlite protocol (HPP) was evaluated for cryopreservation of a wide range of ectomycorrhizal basidiomycete cultures, then a modified perlite protocol (MPP), in which cryoprotectant was added just before freezing rather than during the culturing process, was applied to cryosensitive strains that failed to survive when HPP was used. Further modifications of MPP with various cryoprotectants were explored to improve the cryopreservation of hard-to-preserve strains. The efficacy of HPP was assessed in 111 strains of 38 species of basidiomycetes of various cryosensitivities. After freezing strains using HPP, the viability and colony diameter of the strains were examined after 2 wk, 6 mo, and 1 y of storage at −80 C. Of the 111 strains tested, 91 survived after 1 y of storage with high viability of 80% or more, whereas the remaining 20 strains exhibited low and unstable viability. For those selected cryosensitive strains that did not survive well when HPP was used, MPP was applied with a mixture of cryoprotectants, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol, and trehalose, at different concentrations and combinations. Toxicity testing of the cryoprotectants in the nonfrozen state revealed that 12% (v/v) glycerol was highly toxic for six strains (four species), whereas DMSO (5% and 10% [v/v]) was less toxic than glycerol. The viability of the cryosensitive strains after freezing demonstrated that DMSO was more efficient than glycerol, and trehalose enhanced the cryoprotective effects of both glycerol and DMSO when MPP was used for cryopreservation. Our comparative analysis of MPP with various combinations and concentrations of cryoprotectants revealed that a mixture of 5% DMSO and 10% trehalose was the most effective cryoprotectant, and that using MPP with this cryoprotectant was applicable to many cryosensitive strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Armillaria mexicana (Agaricales, Physalacriaceae) is described as a new species based on morphology, DNA sequence data, and phylogenetic analyses. It clearly differs from previously reported Armillaria species in North, Central, and South America. It is characterized by the absence of fibulae in the basidioma, abundant cheilocystidia, and ellipsoidal, hyaline basidiospores that are apparently smooth under light microscope, but slightly to moderately rugulose under scanning electron microscope. It is differentiated from other Armillaria species by macromorphological characters, including annulus structure, pileus and stipe coloration, and other structures. DNA sequence data (nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacers [ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 = ITS], 28S D-domain, 3′ end of 28S intergenic spacer 1, and translation elongation factor 1-α [TEF1]) show that A. mexicana sequences are quite distinct from sequences of analogous Armillaria species in GenBank. In addition, sequences of ITS of the A. mexicana ex-type culture reveal an ITS1 of 1299 bp and an ITS2 of 582 bp, the longest ITS regions reported thus far in fungi. Phylogenetic analysis based on TEF1 sequences place A. mexicana in a well-separated, monophyletic clade basal to the polyphyletic A. mellea complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on an exhaustive sampling of all known Lepidostromatales, a lineage of clavarioid lichen-forming basidiomycetes, we assess (i) the phylogenetic affinities of the six Chinese species currently accommodated inMulticlavula(Cantharellales) based on inferences from the 18S and 28S subunits of the nuclear ribosomal DNA repeat and (ii) the phylogenetic structure among Chinese populations of Lepidostromatales, based on the nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (internal transcribed spacer [ITS]) regions.Multiclavula fossicolaandM. sinensisbelong to the Lepidostromatales and are transferred toSulzbacheromyces. Chinese reports ofM. claraandM. vernalisbelong to species of Lepidostromatales, and specimens identified asM. mucidabelong to the nonlichenized genusClavaria. Hence, evidence ofMulticlavulaoccurring in China is lacking. Similarly,L. calocerumis excluded from the Chinese flora. The recently describedL. asianumshould be regarded as conspecific withS. sinensis. Three new species ofSulzbacheromycesare described:S. bicolorandS. yunnanensisfrom China andS. miomboensisfrom the Democratic Republic of Congo. Consequently,Sulzbacheromycesis new to Asia and Africa. A worldwide key to the species of Lepidostromatales is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fomitiporellaaccommodates polypores producing annual to perennial basidiocarps with an indistinct subiculum (very thin to almost lacking), mostly a dimitic hyphal structure, lacking any kind of setae, with brownish, thick-walled basidiospores, and causing a white rot. Previously, only a few samples ofFomitiporellawere studied on the basis of morphological and nuc 28S rDNA (28S)-based phylogenetic analyses. In this study, we made a comprehensive study onFomitiporellaon the basis of collections from Central America, USA, Europe, and China. The phylogenetic analysis, including 28 nuc 28S rDNA and 29 nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (internal transcribed spacer [ITS]) sequences newly generated, discovered 14 new lineages. Combined with morphological evidence, 4 new lineages are described and illustrated as new species, viz.,Fomitiporella americana, F. micropora, F. sinica, andF. subinermis; 10 other new lineages, each with a single collection, are still treated as unidentified taxa; three new combinations, viz.,Fomitiporella tenuissima, F. chinensis, andF. resupinata, are proposed. In addition,F. inermisis redescribed. A key to the 12 known species ofFomitiporellais provided. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Suillus spraguei, synonymS. pictus, has been reported from eastern North America and eastern Asia associated withPinussubgenusStrobus. Published phylogenetic analyses of rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence and population genetic studies indicated thatS. spragueias currently circumscribed might contain several geographically distinct species. This study examined this possibility through a multigene analysis ofS. spragueispecimens from eastern North America and eastern Asia. These specimens were associated withPinus strobus, P. koraiensis, P. armandii, andP. kwangtungensis. The multigene analysis included three genomic regions: the genes for translation elongation factor 1α (TEF1) and RNA polymerase II largest subunit (RPB1), and the nuc rRNA segments ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS) and 28S D1–D2 domains (28S). This study confirms that theS. spragueicomplex consists of at least three cryptic species:S. spragueisensu stricto associated withP. strobusin eastern North America;S. phylopictusassociated with multiple species inPinussubgenusStrobus(5-needle pines) throughout China and Japan; andS. kwangtungensis, currently found only inP. kwangtungensisforests in southeastern China. A third new species from Japan and Korea was suggested based on ITS phylogeny. Morphologically,S. spragueiandS. phylopictusresemble each other, whereasS. kwangtungensisis covered with more floccose scales. The new species add to the knowledge of macrofungal diversity in eastern Asia and highlight the necessity of comparing broadly distributed species complexes using morphological, molecular, and ecological data. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of theAntrodia serialisgroup are revised with morphological, ecological, and geographic data, partial translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) gene sequences, and nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-28S sequences. The group contains 13 species found in boreal and temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. The species are limited to certain geographic areas within Eurasia and North America. The traditional morphology-based concept ofA. serialiscovers at least four closely related species:A. serialiss. str. in Eurasia,A. angusta, sp. nov., in East Asia,A. serrata, sp. nov., in the American Northeast, andA. calcitrosa, sp. nov., in the American Northwest. They all are associated mostly withPiceaspp. and show small, but stable morphological differences from each other. In addition,A. morganii, comb. nov., inhabiting wood ofPopulusspp., occurs in North America, andAntrodia alaskana, comb. nov., a large-pored species, macroscopically similar toA. variiformis, is distributed along the Pacific coast of North America. The pine-dwellingA. flavimontis, sp. nov., similar toA. primaevafrom Eurasia, is so far known only from the eastern part of the Rocky Mountains (Utah and Wyoming). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Phellinopsis(Hymenochaetaceae) was recently segregated fromPhellinus. Phellinopsisdiffers from other genera segregated fromPhellinusin a combination of hymenial setae, if present, mostly originating from tramal hyphae and hyaline basidiospores becoming pale yellowish with age. In this study, two new species ofPhellinopsis, P. lonicericolaandP. tibetica, from Tibet in southwestern China were described and illustrated. Morphological data and sequences of the nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region (internal transcribed spacer [ITS] barcode) support the recognition of these taxa as distinct. They are morphologically compared with other species ofPhellinopsis. Notably,P. lonicericolawas often found onLoniceratogether withSanghuangporus alpinus, which was originally described from the same locality. In addition,Phellinopsis helwingiae, known from a single collection from Sichuan Province in midwestern China, is reported from Tibet. Eight accepted species ofPhellinopsisworldwide, each forming a terminal lineage, grouped together as a strongly supported clade distinct from the clade representingPhellinus. A key to the eight species ofPhellinopsisis provided. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ganoderma lucidum is a medicinal macrofungus that is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Nonetheless, the scarcity of basic biological studies of this organism has hindered the further development of its commercial value. The pH-responsive transcription factor PacC/Rim101 governs the adaptation to environmental pH, the development and the secondary metabolism of many fungi. In this study, a homologue of PacC/Rim101 that encodes GlPacC was identified in the higher basidiomycete G. lucidum. GlPacC is composed of 807 amino acids and contains three typical C2H2 zinc-finger domains, two potential PEST domains, a putative PKA phosphorylation site, and a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS). GlPacC was transcribed at a high level when the fungus was under neutral and alkaline conditions, and silencing of GlPacC impaired the fungal response to ambient pH. The distance between the hyphal branches (of vegetative hyphae and aerial hyphae) was significantly increased in the GlPacC-silenced strains. The GlPacCsilenced strains grew abnormally or became sickly on solid culture medium and were unable to form primordia and fruiting bodies. The ganoderic acid content, levels of the sqs and ls transcripts, and contents of the metabolic intermediates squalene and lanosterol were all up-regulated in the GlPacC-silenced strains. Our results indicate that GlPacC is functional and plays complex roles in mycelial growth, fruiting body development and ganoderic acid biosynthesis in G. lucidum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four species of mycenoid fungi are reported as luminescent (or putatively luminescent) on the basis of specimens collected from São Paulo State, Brazil. Two of them represent new species (Mycena oculisnymphae, Resinomycena petarensis), and two represent new reports of luminescence in previously described species (M. deformis, M. globulispora). Comprehensive descriptions, illustrations, photographs, and comparisons with phenetically similar species are provided. Sequences of nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer regions were generated for barcoding purposes and for comparisons with similar species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moniliophthora perniciosa is a basidiomycete fungus that causes witches' broom disease in Theobroma cacao. We analyzed the morphology and survival of fungal hyphae and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) remodeling in either glucose- or glycerol-grown M. perniciosa after treatment with ER stress-inducing chemicals dithiothreitol (DTT) or tunicamycin (TM). Changes in intracellular redox potential can cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress due to diminished efficiency in protein folding that could in turn reduce cell survival. Such stress diminishes protein-folding efficiency that could in turn reduce cell survival. Light microscopy revealed morphological changes in hyphae after TM but not after DTT treatment, regardless of the media carbon source. Decrease in fungal survival, after both TM and DTT treatments, was dose-dependent and glycerol-grown cells showed a higher resistance to both chemicals compared to glucose-grown cells. Electron microscopy showed TM and DDT-induced ER stress in M. perniciosa as evidenced by structural alterations of the organelle. The volume of ER structures increased as a typical consequence of unfolded protein stress, and the number of autophagosomes was higher. In glycerol-grown fungus DTT treatment slightly induced expression of molecular chaperone BiP. The TM exposure-induced expression of gene MpIRE1, involved in signaling of the unfolded protein response, was higher in glycerol than glucose-grown cells. Such difference was not observable with expression of gene MpATG8, encoding a key protein in autosome formation, that was induced 1.4-fold and 1.2-fold in glucose or glycerol-grown cells, respectively. DHE-based fluorescence assay showed M. perniciosa oxidative stress induced by H2O2, and treated cells had a higher level of oxidative stress compared to control. A comprehensive study of remodeling of ER is important in understanding M. perniciosa fungus resistance to oxidative stress and its ability to implement a successful infection in T. cacao. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new species of Inocybe, I. iringolkavensis, I. keralensis, I. kuruvensis, I. muthangensis and I. wayanadensis, are described from Kerala state, India, based on morphological and molecular data. All are associated with trees belonging to Dipterocarpaceae. Inocybe iringolkavensis is characterized by nodulose to somewhat stellate basidiospores, 1-4-spored basidia, and caulocystidia restricted to the stipe apex. Inocybe keralensis has a yellowish brown pileus, lamellae with whitish, serrate edges, smooth, ellipsoidal basidiospores and a duplex pileipellis with the superficial hyphae devoid of encrustations and encrusted hyphae beneath. The diagnostic features of I. kuruvensis include a dark brown pileus, stipe with a whitish base and grayish brown, floccose-fibrillose surface, nodulose basidiospores with saddle-shaped projections and faintly encrusted paracystidia with refractive contents. Violet basidiomata with a rimose, hygrophanous pileus, densely pruinose stipe with a marginate-bulbous base, and nodulose basidiospores are the major features of I. muthangensis. Inocybe wayanadensis is characterized by small, whitish basidiomata, a viscid pileus with a rimulose surface, a densely pruinose and fibrillose stipe with a marginate-bulbous base, nodulose basidiospores, thick-walled pleuro- cheilo- and caulocystidia and an ixotrichoderm-type pileipellis. The phylogenetic relationships of these new species are inferred from an analysis of nuc rDNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) and the 28S gene. Except I. keralensis, which belongs to the Pseudosperma clade, all other species belong to the Inocybe clade. This study represents the second report of an Inocybe species (I. muthangensis) that combines violet basidiomata with nodulose basidiospores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 2002 and 2012 regular visits to the Carpathians were made and a number of Hebeloma spp. were collected from the alpine area. In total 44 collections were made that represent 11 species, two of which, Hebeloma grandisporum and H. oreophilum, are described here as new. Of the 11 species, four (H. alpinum, H. marginatulum and the two species described as new) are known only from alpine or Arctic habitats. Hebeloma dunense and H. mesophaeum are commonly found in, but not restricted to, alpine habitats. The other five species (H. aanenii, H. laterinum, H. naviculosporum, H. vaccinum, H. velutipes) are usually found in lowland or boreal habitats. Hebeloma naviculosporum is reported for the first time from the alpine zone and H. alpinum for the first time as growing with Helianthemum. All but two species (H. alpinum, H. marginatulum) are reported for the first time from the Carpathian alpine zone. In this paper we discuss the habitat, the 11 recorded species and give detailed descriptions of the two new species, both morphologically and molecularly. A key for Hebeloma species from sect. Hebeloma occurring in Arctic-alpine habitats is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European, North American and northeastern Asian collections of Xeromphalina section Xeromphalina were studied by sequencing the nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and 28S 5' regions and partial RNA polymerase II second largest subunit gene (RPB2). Previously designated Xeromphalina campanella I is designated X. campanella s. str. and a neotype for this species from the topotype region is established. This species is shown to be a discrete, cold-tolerant organism that is distributed across North America and Eurasia and does not exhibit significant geographical partitioning. A second closely related phylogenetic species previously designated X. campanella II, proposed as X. enigmatica, cannot be distinguished from X. campanella morphologically but is reproductively isolated and is sympatric with X. campanella across much of Eurasia and North America. Unlike X. campanella it shows geographical partitioning and some of the geographical populations likely have become reproductively isolated. Phylogenetic and geographical evidence suggests that X. enigmatica may have given rise to the eastern North American endemic, Xeromphalina kauffmanii, which also is reproductively isolated and is characterized by a hardwood substrate and a difference in basidiospore shape. Two putatively interbreeding haplotypes are evident for both eastern North American X. kauffmanii and eastern North American X. enigmatica andmight be contributions from different glacial refugia. Cryptic taxa related to X. enigmatica are identified but not named due to small sample sizes including Asian taxa 1-5 and an apparent endemic from Idaho and British Columbia. Several species-delineation procedures were attempted and compared with this complex molecular dataset. Rosenberg's PAB statistic and PID (liberal) were the most liberal, assigning species status to haplotypes or interbreeding clades within species. PID (strict) and PRD (randomly distinct) were more stringent. Ability to intercross was the most stringent criterion for species delineation and did not correlate well with PAB, PID and PRD delineations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collections of a pleurotoid fungus from dead aspen in eastern Russia were initially identified as Lentinus sp., then as Phyllotopsis nidulans. DNA sequencing of cultures derived from these specimens using the nuclear ribosomal 28S (nrLSU) and nuclear ribosomal ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 regions (nrITS) showed that they were neither Lentinus nor Phyllotopsis and were not related to other pleurotoid genera Hohenbuehelia and Pleurotus. Subsequent investigation showed that the Russian fungus was the same as Pleurotus vetlinianus described from Poland. A new genus, Lignomyces, is described and characterized and L. vetlinianus comb. nov. is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thelephora is a genus of ectomycorrhizal basidiomycetes with basidiomes of varied shape which has been poorly studied in tropical ecosystems. In this paper, we present Thelephora versatilis and Thelephora pseudoversatilis, two new species collected in the same localities of deciduous and sub-perennial tropical forests of Jalisco, Mexico. Basidiomes of both species are brownish gray to violet brown with clavarioidmesopodal, sub-resupinate or completely resupinate growth forms. In turn, phylogenetic analyses using nrDNA ITS sequences showed that these species are not closed related, nevertheless they are part of a wellsupported clade conformed by several species of Thelephora, Tomentella and some undescribed Thelephorales. Morphological segregation of these species was attained by analyzing spore and hyphae characters using a wide sample. Significant statistical differences between the new species were observed regarding spore size, spine size and context hyphae width. This work exemplifies the relevance of integrating both morphological and molecular data, as well of the use of an appropriate sample size in order to discriminate among morphological cryptic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutation is the ultimate source of all genetic variation in populations and yet they remain unobservable and buried in the past. Long-lived individuals of Armillaria gallica, a common opportunistic fungal pathogen of tree roots in temperate forests of the northern hemisphere, provide a spatial context for examining the mutational dynamic. Each individual of A. gallica arises in a single mating between two haploid gametes and the resulting diploid then grows vegetatively to occupy a discrete spatial territory often including many adjacent tree root systems. In effect, this leaves a spatial record of growth over time within which mutations can be localized. To identify mutations, the entire genomes of three spatially separated samples of one individual of A. gallica approximately 200 x 60 m were sequenced and compared. In this comparison, mutations and regions of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) were identified then assayed in another 20 isolates from the same individual by conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing. The genotype network of all mutations and LOH were without internal conflict. Further, the spatial pattern of genotypes was nonrandom and appeared to reflect the vegetative expansion leading to the present-day individual. The results reflect the spectrum of spontaneous mutation in nature and provide insight into cellular generation times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exobasidium leaf and fruit spot of blueberry (Vaccinium section Cyanococcus) is an emerging disease that has rapidly increased in prevalence throughout the southeastern USA. To determine whether this disease is caused by a new species of Exobasidium, we studied the morphology and phylogenetic relationship of the causal fungus compared with other members of the genus, including the type species E. vaccinii and other species that parasitize blueberry and cranberry (V. macrocarpon). Both scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy were used for morphological characterization. For phylogenetic analyses, we sequenced the large subunit of the rDNA (LSU) from 10 isolates collected from leaf or fruit spots of rabbiteye blueberry (V. virgatum), highbush blueberry (V. corymbosum) and southern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium interspecific hybrid) from Georgia and North Carolina and six isolates from leaf spots of lowbush blueberry (V. angustifolium) from Maine and Nova Scotia, Canada. LSU was sequenced from isolates causing red leaf disease of lowbush blueberry and red leaf spot (E. rostrupii) and red shoot (E. perenne) of cranberry. In addition, LSU sequences from GenBank, including sequences with high similarity to the emerging parasite and from Exobasidium spp. parasitizing other Vaccinium spp. and related hosts, were obtained. All sequences were aligned and subjected to phylogenetic analyses. Results indicated that the emerging parasite in the southeastern USA differs morphologically and phylogenetically from other described species and is described herein as Exobasidium maculosum. Within the southeastern USA, clustering based on host species, host tissue type (leaf or fruit) or geographic region was not detected; however, leaf spot isolates from lowbush blueberry were genetically different and likely represent a unique species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors respond to the comments made on their article about the dispersal of ectomycorrhizal basidiospores. They disagree with the argument that their paper did not address long distance dispersal (LDD) in the fungi. They note that their intention was to direct renewed attention to problem of spore dispersal in the context of spatial patterns of ecological interactions between ectomycorrhizal plants and fungi. They suggest the implications of spores released from a basidiomycete sporocarp.

Model calculations are presented on the horizontal dispersal distance of basidiospores from their source (any typical agaric). The results are compared to old and recent experimental data obtained by sampling on sticky microscope slides placed on soil. I argue that such experimental data alone are insufficient to determine the dispersion kernel because of sampling paucity: Only a minor fraction of the released spores is sampled, and the fate of the rest is unknown. Spore dispersal is determined largely by wind, whereas deposition may be due predominantly to wash-out by rainfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a heat-treatment method, two genera of heat-resistant and xerotolerant basidiomycetes were isolated from soil samples. These two genera, Basidioascus and Geminibasidium gen. nov., are morphologically similar and phylogenetically related. The genus Basidioascus originally was described as an ascomycete, but the structures originally interpreted as single-spored asci appear to represent basidiospores. Morphologically both genera are characterized by the lack of a fruiting body, conspicuously granular and deciduous basidia with a unique basal lateral projection and apparently double-walled basidiospores. The basidia, rather than the basidiospores, are forcibly discharged in Basidioascus species but not in Geminibasidium species. In Geminibasidium species a putative basidium arises from a primary cell. These are novel forms of basidia ontogenesis previously unseen in basidiomycetes. The rDNA (SSU + 5.8S + LSU) Bayesian phylogenetic analysis suggests that these fungi are distantly related to Wallemia, another xerotolerant basidiomycete genus commonly found in indoor air dust, dried foods and natural hypersaline environments. Given the physiological similarity and phylogenetic relationships, Basidioascus and Geminibasidium are classified in a new order, Geminibasidiales, and are taxonomically assigned to the class Wallemiomycetes. Based on morphological observations and molecular phylogeny of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), two species of Basidioascus (B. undulatus, B. magus sp. nov.) and two species of Geminibasidium (G. donsium sp. nov., G. hirsutum sp. nov.) are described. A key to these species is provided using micromorphological and cultural characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field survey of ballistosporic yeasts in a Neotropical forest yielded a new species isolated from a fern leaf. The isolate is a cream-colored butyrous yeast that reproduces by budding. Budding occurs at both the apical and basal cell poles; occasionally multiple budding events co-occur, giving rise to rosette-like clusters of cells at both poles of the yeast mother cell. DNA sequences of large and small subunit and the internal transcribed spacer regions of the nuclear ribosomal DNA cistron indicated an affinity to Microbotryomycetes, Pucciniomycotina. A new genus, Meredithblackwellia, is proposed to accommodate the new species, M. eburnea (type strain MCA4105). Based on phylogenetic analyses, Meredithblackwellia is related to Kriegeria eriophori, a sedge parasite, to an aquatic fungus Camptobasidium hydrophilum and to several recently described anamorphic yeasts that have been isolated from plant material or psychrophilic environments. Morphological and ultrastructural studies confirm the relatedness of M. eburnea to these taxa and prompted the re-evaluation of higher-level classification within Microbotryomycetes. We propose here a new order, Kriegeriales, and place two families, Kriegeriaceae fam. nov. and Camptobasidiaceae R.T. Moore, within it. Our study re-emphasizes the need for systematic revision of species described in Rhodotorula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phlebopus portentosus is a popular wild edible ectomycorrhizal fungus in northern Thailand. In general ectomycorrhizal fungi produce basidiomes when associated with a host plant. In this paper mycelium growth and basidiome production of P. portentosus were examined in pure culture both in vitro and in pot-culture experiments. Five mycelial strains of P. portentosus were isolated from basidiomes and used in the experiments. The mycelia grew fastest on sorghum grains supplemented with fungal-host solution. The mycelia produced sclerotia-like structures after 3 wk incubation in darkness at 30 C. All strains of P. portentosus had the ability to form primordia. The primordia were formed under lowered temperature, high humidity and a 12 h photo-period. They developed to mature basidiomes after 8-12 d in in vitro. In the pot-culture primordia were found after 28-35 d incubation in the greenhouse and mature basidiomes released basidiospores within 6-8 d. Basidiospores were germinated on fungal-host medium and formed mycelial colonies. This fungus showed an ability to produce basidiomes even 2 y after the original isolation from tissues. This research provides valuable information concerning the techniques and protocols for the large scale commercial production of P. portentosus basidiomes in the absence of a host plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new species of Clavulina (Cantharellales, Basidiomycota) are described from rainforests dominated by ectomycorrhizal trees of the leguminous genus Dicymbe (Fabaceae subfam. Caesalpinioideae) from the central Guiana Shield. Species of Clavulina typically form branched, coralloid basidiomata with amphigenous hymenia. However, the three species described here form resupinate or effusocoralloid basidiomata, macromorphological forms previously unknown in Clavulina. Macromorphological, micromorphological, habitat and DNA sequence data are provided for each new species. Micromorphological features and DNA sequence data from the second largest subunit of DNA-dependant RNA polymerase II (rpb2) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (28S) of the ribosomal repeat justify placement of these new species in Clavulina. Comparisons with described Clavulina species and other resupinate taxa within the Cantharellales are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biodiversity of saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal basidiomycetous macrofungi growing on seven islands in central Japan were compared to examine colonizing success within the context of island biogeography theory. Two hypotheses were tested: that the number of the fungal species depends on island area and that the slope of the species-area curve for saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal macro-fungi differ in response to differences in their nutritional requirements. Data for the number of species that were identified based on sporocarps closely fit the conventional species-area curve. The slopes of the species-area curve for saprotrophic fungi (0.316) and ectomycorrhizal fungi (0.469) were similar to those reported for insects and birds, and plants on other archipelagos, respectively. In addition species-area curve data showed that ectomycorrhizal fungi colonized only islands > 630 m². While the species composition of saprotrophic fungi found on any pair of islands was positively correlated to the ratio of the areas of the island pair being compared (smaller/larger), no such relationship was observed for ectomycorrhizal fungi. Conversely similar ectomycorrhizal fungi, mostly those belonging to the genera Amanita, Inocybe, Boletellus and Russula, were found on pairs of islands with similar vegetation in the same geographic region. These results suggested that the colonizing success by ectomycorrhizal fungi is limited by host plant diversity, which is lower on smaller islands, instead of restricted immigration resulting from limited spore dispersal ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of PhyUoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) are polypores with tiny, yellowish and thick-walled basidiospores and are highly divergent in morphology. The monophyly of 35 cosmopolitan isolates of Phylloporia was strongly supported based on analysis of the nLSU rDNA gene but with exclusion of P. resupinata. Among the 19 lineages recognized in the nLSU rDNA phylogeny five new species from China, Phylloporia crataegi, P. fontaneo siae, P. gutta, P. nandinae and P. oreophila, were revealed and these species are introduced with additional morphological evidence. A diagnostic key to all 23 thus far accepted species in Phylloporia is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed viability of 18 strains of filamentous ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic basidiomycetes and ascomycetes after cryopreservation with a novel technique based on charcoal filter paper strips (CFS). The results indicate that axenic fungal cultures grown on CFS recovered from freezing within a few days, even though none survived cryopreservation by the conventional straw method. Fungal growth on CFS was more vigorous, with morphological differentiations such as rhizomorphs and an increased amount of aerial mycelia compared to the unamended culture media. Accordingly CFS allows the cryopreservation of a wide range of rare and important ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungi, which hitherto were difficult to revive from liquid nitrogen storage with the conventional and widely applied straw technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new species Neopaxillus dominicanus is described on the basis of collections from the Dominican Republic. It is distinguished by having a basidiome with decurrent, distant, white lamellae with evident pink-lilac tinges, a non-depressed pileus at maturity and well developed catenulate cheilocystidia. A description, color photographs of fresh basidiomes and line drawings of relevant microscopic traits are provided. N. dominicanus is morphologically similar to NeopaxiUus echinospermus, a type species of the genus. Based on comparative ITS-LSU rDNA gene sequence analyses, NeopaxiUus, formerly placed in the Boletales, is considered within the Agaricales where it is sister to Crepidotus (Crepidotaceae), and N. dominicanus is supported as distinct from N. echinospermus. Finally, according to our morphological and molecular analyses, two collections of N. echinospermus from Mexico are referable to N. dominicanus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although most species in the genus Amanita form ectomycorrhizal associations, a few are reported to be saprotrophs living in grassland habitats. Little is known about the ecology and distribution of these free-living Amanita species. We describe the ecology of Amanita thiersii, a species commonly collected in lawns throughout the Mississippi River Basin. Stable isotopes of carbon, transcriptomic sequences and patterns of growth on complex carbon sources provide evidence for A. thiersii as a saprotrophic species. Sporocarps of A. thiersii are less depleted in 13C compared to published data for ectomycorrhizal fungi, supporting a saprotrophic mode of carbon acquisition in the field. Orthologs of cellulase genes known to play key roles in the decomposition of cellulose in other basidiomycetes were identified in a transcriptome of A. thiersii, establishing that this species has the genetic potential to degrade cellulose. Amanita thiersii also can use artificial cellulose or sterile grass litter as a sole carbon source. DNA sequences of three nuclear gene regions and banding patterns from four intersimple sequence repeat markers were identical across 31 populations from throughout the known range of the species, which suggests the genetic diversity of A. thiersii populations is low. Maps of A. thiersii collections made from the 1950s until present suggest this species is experiencing a range expansion. It was reported first in 1952 in Texas and now occurs in nine states north to Illinois. These data provide an ecological context for interpreting the genome of A. thiersii, currently being sequenced at the United States Department of Energy's Joint Genome Institute. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gasteroid bolete collected recently in Sarawak on the island of Borneo is described as the new species Spongiforma squarepantsii. A comprehensive description, illustrations, phylogenetic placement and a comparison with a closely allied species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species in the anamorphic basidiomycetous genus Trichosporon (Tremellomycetes, Agaricomycotina) were uncovered in a DNA sequence-based molecular analysis of oleaginous yeasts maintained in the ATCC Mycology Collection. One yeast is named as Trichosporon cacaoliposimilis sp. nov. for its capability of synthesizing and accumulating a large amount of lipids having a composition equivalent to that of natural cacao butter. The type strain is ATCC 20505T, originally deposited as Trichosporon sp. The other can use food industry wastes and agricultural byproducts as the substrate for growth and accumulation of a high level of oil and accordingly is named Trichosporon oleaginosus sp. nov. The type strain is ATCC 20509T, previously identified as Cryptococcus curvatus. Molecular phylogenetic analyses indicate that T. cacaoliposimilis is a novel taxon in the Gracile clade of the genus, close to T. gracile and T. dulcitum, and that T. oleaginosus belongs to the Cutaneum clade, with T. jirovecii as the closest sister taxon. Other oleaginous yeasts were identified as new strains of known taxa, T. insectorum, Candida orthopsilosis and C. palmioleophila. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several recent fine-scale genetic structure studies of ectomycorrhizal fungi have reported significant spatial clustering of genets with similar genotypes, supporting locally restricted gene flow. In this study we used genotype data from microsatellite markers and spatial autocorrelation analysis to examine local gene flow in Suillus spraguei at distances tip to 2 km. Previously developed microsatellite markers for S. spraguei from Japan were unsuccessful at amplifying DNA isolated from sporocarps found in New York state, and other research suggested that both are disjunct species. Novel microsatellite markers therefore were developed with New York specimens. We identified nine polymorphic microsatellite loci and developed primer sets to amplify these regions. We tested the efficiency of the primer sets on 50 sporocarps collected from a natural Pinus strobus stand. The majority of the markers were in Hardy- Weinberg and linkage equilibrium. The location of all sampled sporocarps was recorded and used along with multilocus genotype data to create a genet map. The distance between sporocarps with the same multilocus genotype was small (≤ 7.65 in) and the majority of sporocarps collected were genetically unique, suggesting frequent spore establishment and sexual recombination on this site. Spatial autocorrelation analysis did not support clustering of similar genotypes, suggesting few restrictions to gene flow within this local population [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diplomitoporus rimosus is a white rot polypore widely distributed in western N America, collected once in Africa, and is reported here from Iran. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of partial nuclear ribosomal LSU and ITS revealed that, unlike the generic type D. flavescens nested within the polyporoid clade, D. rimosus is positioned in the hymenochaetoid clade. A new genus is introduced to accommodate the species. Cyanotrama gen. nov. is recognized by its resupinate habit, narrow and strongly cyanophilous skeletal hyphae, barrel-shaped to short clavate basidia, variable presence of hyphal pegs and growth on conifers, especially Juniperus. Comparisons are made with representatives of polypores having similar morphological characteristics especially with cyanophilous skeletals. The biogeography of Cyanotrama rimosa with regard to its association with Juniperus woodlands is discussed briefly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amanita phalloides, Lepiota cristata, Lepiota brunneoincarnata and Inocybe asterospora are among the most important species responsible of mushroom poisoning in northern Italy. A real time PCR method for the identification of samples containing DNA from each of these species was developed. To test specificity all protocols were applied on DNA extracted from various mushroom species; sensitivity was assessed performing serial dilutions on all samples; versatility of the protocols was evaluated performing tests on DNA extracted from different matrices. The protocols showed high sensitivity (32 ng dried mushroom), high specificity and sensitive detection of DNA extracted from difficult samples, including pasta with mushroom, cooked mushrooms and gastric aspirates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several cases of speciation by hybridization have been reported in fungi, mostly involving recent hybridizationl between closely related species. In the basidiomycete genus Microbotryum by contrast some species were suspected to have arisen by hybridization between moderately distant species. In particular two species, M. lagerheimii and M. silenes-acaulis, had different placements in phylogenetic trees depending on the genes considered. Microbotryum species exhibit bipolar heterothallism, and here we analyzed sequences of the two alternate pheromone receptors to obtain further insights on the occurrence of hybridizationl Indeed because mating-type loci are always heterozygous homoploid hybrid speciation should leave type locus by a permanent footprint at the mating-retaining the alternate alleles from their respective parental species. The trees obtained with each of the two pheromone receptors were well resolved, and the species relationships were in agreement with published phytogenies. Fungal pheromone receptor genes of basidiomycetes thus appear useful for phylogenetic studies, although it may not be true for die homobasidiomycetes where duplications of these genes have occurred. Furthermore an incongruence between the phylogenies of the two pheromone receptors was found for one species, M. lagerheimii, as previously observed between other nuclear genes. However additional species analyzed here revealed that the incongruence involved the whole clade including both M. lagerheimii and the Microbotryum species parasitizing Lychnis flos-cucucli. The ancestor of these species thus possibly arose via hybridization between distant ancestral lineages, although further studies should address alternative hypotheses, such as chance events during lineage sorting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ustilago maydis is a basidiomycete fungus that exhibits a yeast-like and a filamentous form. Growth of the fungus in the host leads to additional morphological transitions. The different morphologies are characterized by distinct nuclear movements. Dynein and α-tubulin are required for nuclear movements and for cell morphogenesis of the yeast-like form. Lisl is a microtubule plus-end tracking protein (+TIPs) conserved in cukaryotes and required for nuclear migration and spindle positioning. Defects in nuclear migration result in altered cell fate and aberrant development in metazoans, slow growth in fungi and disease in humans (e.g. lissencephaly). Here we investigate the role of the human LIS1 homolog in U. maydis and demonstrate that it is essential for cell viability, not previously seen in other fungi. With a conditional null mutation we show that lis1 is necessary for nuclear migration in the yeast-like cell and during the dimorphic transition. Studies ill asynchronous exponentially growing cells and time-lapse microscopy uncovered novel functions of lis1: It is necessary for cell morphogenesis, positioning of the septum and cell wall integrity. Lis1-depleted cells exhibit altered axes of growth and loss of cell polarity leading to grossly aberrant cells with clusters of nuclei and morphologically altered buds devoid of nuclei. Altered septum positioning and cell wall deposition contribute to the aberrant morphology, lis1-depleted cells lyse, indicative of altered cell wall properties or composition. We also demonstrate, with indirect immunofluorescence to visualize tubulin, that lisl is necessary for the normal organization of the microtubule cytoskeleton: lisl-depleted cells contain more and longer microtubules that can form coils perpendicular to the long axis of the cell. We propose that lisl controls microtubule dynamics and thus the regulated delivery of vesicles to growth sites and other cell domains that govern nuclear movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fistulinella cinereoalba sp. nov., Austroboletus rostrupii, previously known from southeastern Asia, and Austroboletus festivus from Brazilian Amazonia are described for the first time from the Guiana Shield. These boletes were collected from tropical forests dominated by ectomycorrhizal Dicymbe spp. (Fabaceae subfam. Caesalpinioideae) in the Pakaraima Mountains of western Guyana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Calliderma, C. fibulatum and C. rimosum, collected in fragments of the Atlantic Rainforest, Silo Paulo, Brazil, are described and compared with similar taxa including Entoloma pruinatocutis, Inopilus entolomoides and E. tucuchense. After a morphological study of the existing holotypes two new combinations (viz. Calliderma pruinatocutis and C. tucuchense) are proposed. I. entolomoides is considered a synonym of C. pruinatocutis. The two new species are described, with illustrations and SEM photographs of basidiospores and pileipellis structure, including most of the holotypes examined. A key for the species of Calliderma occurring in Brazil is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During taxonomic revision of genus Octaviania in Japan we examined herbarium and fresh specimens of O. columellifera and O. asterosperma sensu S. Yoshimi & Y. Doi with morphological and molecular techniques. These two species were identical in both macro- and micromorphological characters and were clearly different from the generally known O. asterosperma. The identity of the two species and their distinctness from O. asterosperma was further supported by both nuclear large subunit and ITS rDNA phylogeny. The molecular analyses also revealed that O. columellifera shares its lineage with the boletoid mushroom-forming Xerocomus chrysenteron complex and that it does not form a monophyletic clade with other Octaviania species. Our morphological reevaluation, including transmission electron microscopic observation of basidiospores, clarified the taxonomic boundary between O. colu- mellifera and other Japanese Octaviania species. Accordingly we propose a new genus, Heliogaster, for O. columellifera with designation of the lectotype. We discuss phylogenetic relationships with Octaviania sensu stricto species and the closely related boletoid (pileate-stipitate) fungi, generic characters of Heliogaster and intraspecific phylogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A species of Psathyrella (Basidiomycota) with true gills has been observed fruiting underwater in the clear, cold, flowing waters of the upper Rogue River in Oregon. Fruiting bodies develop and mature in the main channel, where they are constantly submerged, and were observed fruiting over 11 wk. These mushrooms develop underwater, not on wood recently washed into the river. Substrates include water-logged wood, gravel and the silty riverbed. DNA sequences of the ITS region and a portion of the ribosomal large subunit gene place this fungus in Psathyrella sensu stricto near P. atomata, P. fontinalis and P. superiorensis. Morphological characters distinguish the underwater mushroom from previously described species. Fruiting bodies have long fibrillose stipes with small diameter caps. Immature stages have a thin veil that is soon lost. Gills lack reddish edges. Cystidia are ventricose with subacute apices. Spores were observed as wedge-shape rafts released into gas pockets below the caps. Underwater gills and ballistospores indicate a recent adaptation to the stream environment. This particular river habitat combines the characteristics of spring-fed flows and cold, aerated water with woody debris in shallow depths on a fine volcanic substrate. Based on molecular, and morphological evidence we conclude that the underwater mushrooms are a new species, Psathyrella aquatica. This report adds to the biodiversity of stream fungi that degrade woody substrates. The underwater environment is a new habitat for gilled mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuscoporia bifurcata is described from southern Brazil based on collections from mangrove areas on Santa Catarina Island, in the state of Santa Catarina. The new species is characterized by hymenial setae with a bifurcate or spiny apex. A description with illustrations, an updated key to species of Fuscoporia from southern Brazil and a key to species of Hymenochaetaceae reported from mangroves are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Geastrum episcopale, is described from Argentina. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of fresh and dry basidiomata are provided along with photographs of microscopic elements, such as spores, capillitium, calcium oxalate crystals, and exo- and endoperidium surfaces. This fungus is typical of the genus in its morphology and ecology but clearly differs from every known species. This species can be distinguished easily by the red-violet (to magenta) exoperidium and the lilac endoperidium. Specimens were collected on wet soil composed of a superficial layer of ca. 5 cm leaf litter and 15 cm of particulate and melanized lignocellulosic material (pH 6.5) under Eugenia uruguayensis and Nectandra sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new agaric species of Stropharia are described from Araucaria angustifolia (Brazilian pine) forests of southern Brazil. Stropharia agaricoides presents Agaricus-like basidiomes, small basidiospores (5-7 µm long) and pyriform cheilochrysocystidia. Stropharia venusta is characterized by the reddish to pinkish pileus, large basidiospores (12-15 µm long) and subclavate cheiloleptocystidia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potential responses of plant disease phenology to climate change have been addressed primarily in agricultural systems. As a first step toward understanding the phenology of Uropyxis petalostemonis, a rust fungus commonly infecting the legume Dalea candida in USA tallgrass prairie, we evaluated the effects of temperature on urediniospore germination. While urediniospore germination for many rust fungi has been reported to decline only when temperatures are well above 25 C, in vitro germination of U. petalostemonis dropped sharply at this temperature. Responses observed on water agar, potato dextrose agar and lima bean agar were similar, although lima bean agar supported a higher percentage germination overall. The low limiting temperatures suggest that most epidemically important new infections by U. petalostemonis occur in spring. High summer temperatures in tallgrass prairie might push infection by this rust fungus species to earlier in the year and select for stronger systemic growth characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposition to UV-A light stimulated the growth and synthesis of raspberry ketone in submerged cultures of the basidiomycete Nidula niveotomentosa. To investigate the fungus' response to UVA light differentially expressed proteins were identified by means of 2D-electrophoresis. Light induced proteins were de novo sequenced by ESI-MS/MS spectrometry, and the encoding nucleotide sequences were cloned from cDNA or genomic DNA. The spectrum of UV-A light-induced proteins comprised several stress-related proteins including a catalase, heat-shock proteins, glutathione s-transferases and proteasomes. In addition, growth-related enzymes of the citric cycle were found to be up-regulated as a response to irradiation with UV-A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horizontal transmission of the 3.57 kb M2 double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) between mycelia of somatica!ly incompatible isolates of Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 3 (AG-3), an economically important pathogen of cultivated plants in the family Solanaceae, was investigated. Nine donor isolates of the solani AG-3 containing the M2 dsRNA were paired on potato-dextrose agar with each of three different recipient isolates where the M2 dsRNA was absent. Reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) was used to detect horizontal transmission of the M2 dsRNA via hyphal anastomosis from donor to recipient isolates by examining hyphal explants taken 3 cm from the hyphal interaction zone. PCR-RFLP genetic-based markers of two nuclear loci and one mitochondrial locus were used to confirm identity and transmission between donor and recipient isolates of R. solani AG- 3. The frequency of transmission observed between 72 pairings of the eight donor and three recipient isolates was approximately 4% of the total pairings, and differences in the phenotype of the recipient isolates after acquisition of the M2 dsRNA via horizontal transmission were observed. To our knowledge this represents the first demonstration of transmission of dsRNA between genetically different individuals of R. solani confirmed with nuclear and mitochondrial markers. These results suggest that transmission can occur between somatically incompatible isolates of R. solani AG-3 but that maintenance of the dsRNA in the recipient isolates was not stable after repeated subculturing on nutrient medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crinipellis pedemontana, a new agaric growing on stems of dead grasses in an Italian urban park, is described and illustrated. It fits in sect. Grisentinae on account of the green reaction with KOH and ammonia and its bright colored pileus. The unique combination of purple-violaceous tinges in the pileus and the presence of chlamydospores in the pileipellis characterize this species as new. Its taxonomic position within Crinipellis and the related genus Moniliophthora is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mating tests were used to identify 282 basidiocarp specimens of Armillaria collected in 15 Chinese provinces, mostly in northern and southwestern parts of the country. Fourteen intersterile taxa were found, including the species A. borealis, A. gallica, A. mellea s.str., A. ostoyae, A. sinapina and A. tabescens and eight so far unnamed taxa called Chinese Biological Species (CBS) C, F, G, H, J, L, N and O. The CBS F might be A. singula, previously recorded from Japan, but six Chinese groups, C, H, J, L, N and O, are probably new biological species. The sexual system of 13 taxa is tetrapolar heterothallism. Homothallic forms also were found; they show a low degree of sexual compatibility with A. mellea s.str, and tentatively are included in the CBS G, but it is unclear whether this is a homogeneous group. Notes are presented on the distribution and ecology of the identified taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]