Two New Resupinatus Species Found in Chinese Mixed Forests

A team led by Guanyu Qiu, Yupeng Ge, Hui Zeng, Tian Wang, Qin Na, and Yaping Hu has described two new species of the saprotrophic mushroom genus Resupinatus from China’s mixed coniferous and broad‑leaved forests. The findings appear in MycoKeys volume 140, pages 147‑171, DOI 10.3897/mycokeys.140.202233 ¹.net].

The study notes that only 47 Resupinatus species are currently recognized worldwide, with just 12 reported from China prior to this work. By adding R. meihui sp. nov. and R. cinereofuscus sp. nov., the total number of Chinese species rises to 14, highlighting an increase in fungal diversity for the region.

Both new species exhibit typical Resupinatus traits: basidiomata laterally or dorsally attached to their substrate, sessile growth forms, lamellate hymenophores, and pilei covered with tomentum or pruina. Their cheilocystidia possess digitate protrusions, while R. meihui is distinguished by lacking coarse felt at its attachment point—a feature absent in other known members.

Habitat observations indicate these fungi thrive on dead branches and well-decayed wood in mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forests. The research team collected specimens across multiple sites, noting consistent morphological patterns among populations.

Expert commentary highlights how this discovery enriches our understanding of biodiversity distribution within Resupinatus. “The addition of two new species underscores the importance of continued exploration and documentation of fungal diversity worldwide,” notes one mycologist involved in the study.

Foragers and cultivators may find practical relevance in recognizing that China’s mixed forests harbor previously undocumented mushroom taxa. This discovery brings the recognized Chinese count to 14, indicating a broader range of potential edible or medicinal species awaiting further investigation—paralleling similar expansions seen in genera such as Lentinula and Psilocybe.

In sum, the publication of these two new Resupinatus species not only augments taxonomic records but also invites renewed attention from mycology enthusiasts toward China’s diverse forest habitats. The work demonstrates that even well‑studied groups can yield surprises when examined with fresh eyes and rigorous methodology.