Type studies of Rossbeevera bispora, and a new species of Rossbeevera from south China

Abstract

The type of Rossbeevera bispora and additional collections from the type location and adjacent areas were studied. Molecular data for R. bispora derived from the new collections are provided. In addition, R. griseobrunnea, a new species of Rossbeevera, is described from Xiangtoushan National Nature Reserve, Guangdong Province of China. The new species is characterized by its globose to subglobose sequestrate basidiomata with grayish white to grayish brown pileus, pale bluish discoloration in some parts of the hymenophore when injured becoming rusty brown to dark brown after being exposed to the air, fusoid (star-shaped in cross section) basidiospores 17–20 × 9–12 μm, and subcutis elements in the pileus. Based on multi-locus (ITS+nrLSU+tef1-α+rpb2) molecular phylogenetic analyses, both species appear as sister to R. paracyanea. We present color photos, macro- and micro-description, SEM basidiospores, molecular affinities of the species and compare them with morphologically similar taxa within the genus. A key to the species known from northern and southern hemispheres is provided.