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A higher-level phylogenetic classification of the Fungi
David S Hibbett1, Manfred Binder, Joseph F Bischoff
1Biology Department, Clark University, Worcester, MA 01610, USA. dhibbett@clarku.edu
Mycological Research
|June 19, 2007
Summary
This study presents a new fungal phylogenetic classification, incorporating molecular data and expert input. It redefines major fungal groups like Chytridiomycota and Zygomycota, introducing new taxa and clarifying evolutionary relationships.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Systematics
Background:
- Fungal classification has historically relied on morphology, but molecular data offers deeper evolutionary insights.
- Previous classifications of Fungi, particularly for Chytridiomycota and Zygomycota, have been contentious and lacked molecular support.
- A consensus-driven, comprehensive phylogenetic framework is needed to accurately represent fungal diversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a comprehensive phylogenetic classification of the kingdom Fungi.
- To integrate recent molecular phylogenetic analyses into a standardized taxonomic system.
- To validate and describe new fungal taxa based on evolutionary relationships.
Main Methods:
- Utilized recent molecular phylogenetic analyses to inform the classification.
- Incorporated input from a diverse community of fungal taxonomists.
- Reviewed and validated existing and proposed fungal taxa down to the order level.
Main Results:
- A classification encompassing 195 fungal taxa down to the order level is presented.
- Sixteen new or validated taxa are described, including the subkingdom Dikarya and phyla Chytridiomycota and Neocallimastigomycota.
- Traditional Zygomycota is redistributed, and Chytridiomycota is restricted, with Microsporidia included within Fungi.
Conclusions:
- The proposed classification provides a robust, molecularly-informed framework for understanding fungal evolution.
- Significant revisions to traditional fungal groups, especially Chytridiomycota and Zygomycota, are necessary.
- This classification serves as a foundation for future research in fungal diversity and evolution.
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