Species Diversity of Amanita Section Vaginatae in Eastern China, with a Description of Four New Species

Abstract

Species of Amanita sect. Vaginatae (Fr.) Quél. are challenging to delimitate due to the morphological similarity or morphostasis among different taxa. In this study, a multi-locus (nuc rDNA region encompassing the internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 with the 5.8S rDNA, the D1–D3 domains of nuc 28S rDNA, partial sequences of translation elongation factor 1-a, and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II) phylogeny was employed to investigate the species diversity of the section in eastern China. Sixteen species were recognized, including four new species; namely, A. circulata, A. multicingulata, A. orientalis, and A. sinofulva. They were documented with illustrated descriptions, ecological evidence, and comparisons with similar species. A key to the species of the section from eastern China is provided.

Four New Species and One New Record of Thelephora from China

“…Detailed morphology comparisons among these five species are shown in Table 2. The combination of phylogenetic analyses, genetic differences, and morphological features can enhance the reliability and objectivity of species delimitation [54].…”