Additions to the lichenicolous mycobiota of Ukraine: the genus Zwackhiomyces (Xanthopyreniaceae, Collemopsidiales)

Abstract

A taxonomic revision of the genus Zwackhiomyces in Ukraine is provided. The genus is characterized by globose to pyriform ascomata, brown wall pigments deposited between the cells, branched and anastomosing interascal filaments, fissitunicate asci and 0–1-sepate hyaline ascospores. Previously, ten species of Zwackhiomyces were known in Ukraine. They are Z. berengerianus, Z. calcariae, Z. cervinae, Z. coepulonus, Z. diederichii, Z. dispersus, Z. lecanorae, Z. lithoiceae, Z. polischukii, and Z. sphinctriniformis. Three species, Zwackhiomyces calcisedus, Z. inconspicuus, and Z. macrosporus, are for the first time reported in the country. Zwackhiomyces dispersus is a new record for the plain part of Ukraine. All species of these lichenicolous fungi were found on 10 different host genera. Rinodina calcarea is a new host species for Z. inconspicuus. All examined species have commensal life strategies, and infection does not cause any visible damage or discoloration of the host thallus and apothecia. Zwackhiomyces lecanorae and Z. inconspicuus can grow on several different host genera. Other species show strict host specificity. Two species, Z. coepulonus and Z. lecanorae, are apparently widespread in Ukraine. Description, host lichen species, data about distribution, examined specimens and notes are provided for each species. An original key to species of Zwackhiomyces in Ukraine is proposed.

Keywords

• lichenicolous life strategy
• new records