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Reconsideration of Protocrea (Hypocreales, Hypocreaceae).
Walter M Jaklitsch1, Kadri Põldmaa, Gary J Samuels
1Faculty Centre for Systematic Botany, University of Vienna, Rennweg 14, A-1030 Vienna, Austria. walter.jaklitsch@univie.ac.at
Mycologia
|February 11, 2009
Summary
The fungal genus Protocrea is redefined, clarifying species distinctions using morphology and DNA. This research identifies new species and reclassifies existing ones, improving our understanding of these fungi.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Fungal Taxonomy
- Molecular Phylogenetics
Background:
- The fungal genus Protocrea requires taxonomic revision based on modern phylogenetic and morphological data.
- Previous classifications of Protocrea species were based on limited evidence, leading to taxonomic uncertainty.
- Understanding the diversity and relationships within Protocrea is crucial for fungal biodiversity and ecological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To redefine the genus Protocrea using comprehensive morphological and molecular data.
- To identify and describe new species within the Protocrea genus.
- To clarify the taxonomic status of previously described species and resolve potential synonymies.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of teleomorph and anamorph states from holotype and fresh specimens.
- Phylogenetic analyses utilizing sequences from the rpb2 gene.
- Comparison of morphological, phylogenetic, and ecological data for species delimitation.
Main Results:
- The genus Protocrea is redefined, with only the type species P. farinosa retained from original inclusions.
- Three well-defined species and three unnamed species are suggested based on current data.
- New species Hypocrea decipiens is introduced for Hypocrea farinosa sensu auct.; Hypocrea pallida is recognized as Protocrea pallida; Protocrea illinoënsis is described as a new sister taxon to P. farinosa.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a robust taxonomic framework for the genus Protocrea, based on integrated evidence.
- Distinct morphological, phylogenetic, and host-associated characteristics differentiate the recognized Protocrea species.
- Protocrea species are primarily polyporicolous, with specific host associations and distinct geographical distributions noted.
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