First data on nivicolous myxomycetes in the “Bitsevsky forest” natural and historical park (Moscow, Russia)

Abstract

Preliminary studies in the northern part of the “Bitsevsky forest” natural and historical park resulted in the collection of 79 specimens of nivicolous myxomycetes belonging to 6 species from 3 genera. This is the first record of nivicolous myxomycetes in urban parks in lowlands. Photographs of sporocarps and micromorphological structures are given for each species. Lamproderma ovoideoechinulatum var. microspora, L. zonatopulchellum, and Meriderma carestiae var. carestiae were found for the first time in Moscow Region. The data indicate that high level of anthropogenic pressure, namely trampling and moderate improvement does not restrict sporulation of nivicolous species.