Integrated taxonomy reveals three novel Ophiocordyceps species (Ophiocordycipitaceae) from China: Morphological convergence and host-specific adaptations in zombie-ant fungi

Abstract

The genus Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Ascomycota) is a globally distributed group of entomopathogenic fungi, renowned for its complex host interactions, including the “zombie-ant” phenomenon. Despite their ecological significance, taxonomic delineation within this genus remains challenging due to morphological convergence and cryptic speciation. This study describes three novel species of Ophiocordyceps—O. jilinensis, O. zongqii, and O. pseudobifertilis—discovered during mycological surveys in subtropical and temperate forests of China. The species were identified through integrated morphological characterization and multilocus phylogenetic analyses (SSU, LSU, TEF1α, RPB1, and RPB2). Ophiocordyceps jilinensis, parasitizing Curculionidae, exhibits distinct phialide and conidial morphology, forming a unique sub-clade within the Hirsutella clade. Ophiocordyceps zongqii and O. pseudobifertilis, associated with Polyrhachis ants, cluster within the O. unilateralis complex but differ in stromatal structure and asexual morphotypes. Phylogenetic results strongly support their classification as new species, highlighting the importance of molecular tools in resolving cryptic diversity. The study also discusses host specificity, behavioral manipulation, and ecological adaptations of these fungi, contributing to the understanding of Ophiocordyceps evolution and host-pathogen dynamics. Specimens were deposited in the Guizhou Medical University Mycological Herbarium (GMB), with ex-type cultures preserved for further research. This work underscores the need for continued exploration of fungal diversity to elucidate evolutionary relationships and ecological roles in natural ecosystems.