Five New Species of Gymnopilus from Xizang Autonomous Region of China and Surrounding Areas

A molecular phylogenetic and morphological study of the wood-decaying mushroom genus Gymnopilus examined seventy-eight specimens collected from ten provinces in China. Using gene sequences from ITS, nrLSU, nrSSU, rpb1, rpb2, and tef1-α, researchers identified eleven species, including five new to science: Gy. gyirongensis, Gy. variisporus, Gy. tomentosiceps, Gy. tenuibasidialis, and Gy. aurantipileatus. Four of the five new species are native to the Xizang Autonomous Region, indicating specialization to that distinctive habitat. The work advances understanding of Gymnopilus diversity and provides a foundation for conservation and sustainable use of these fungi.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The species of Gymnopilus (Hymenogastraceae, Agricales) are commonly recognized as wood-decaying fungi. Certain members of this genus have been identified as psilocybin-producing mushrooms. Gymnopilus exhibits a diverse range and has a global distribution. In this study, a total of seventy-eight specimens were gathered from ten provinces in China. A comprehensive molecular phylogenetic analysis was conducted, employing gene sequences including ITS, nrLSU, nrSSU, rpb1, rpb2, and tef1-α. Additionally, morphological examinations were also carried out. The phylogenetic topology of Gymnopilus from this study generally agreed with previous studies and facilitated the identification of all those specimens. As a result, eleven species, including five newly discovered ones named Gy. gyirongensis, Gy. variisporus, Gy. tomentosiceps, Gy. tenuibasidialis, and Gy. aurantipileatus, were recognized. Significantly, four of the five newly identified species are native to the Xizang Autonomous Region, emphasizing their specialization in this distinctive habitat. This research contributes to our comprehension of Gymnopilus diversity and lays the groundwork for the conservation and sustainable utilization of Gymnopilus resources.