Two new species of Coltricia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) from West Africa based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence.

Abstract

Coltricia (Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) is a cosmopolitan group of wood-inhabiting fungi known for its ecological role in nutrient cycling and ectomycorrhizal associations, particularly in tropical ecosystems. Species diversity of Coltricia in tropical West Africa is poorly explored, with only four species previously documented from the region. Recent field surveys were conducted in Benin, Guinea, and Togo, leading to the collection of six Coltricia specimens. Through a combination of morphological and molecular analyses, two new species, Coltricia langeri and Coltricia mosseboi, were identified and described. Phylogenetic analyses based on sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit ribosomal DNA (28S), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (EF1α) regions confirmed the placement of these new species within Coltricia. Our results also revealed the polyphyletic nature of Coltricia and its close relationship with Coltriciella, challenging current generic boundaries. A dichotomous key to the six Coltricia species now known from tropical Africa is provided. This study expands the known diversity of Coltricia in Africa to six, contributing to the understanding of fungal diversity in tropical forests. The discovery of these new species highlights the need for further exploration and conservation of fungal species in West African ecosystems.