Phylogenetic studies on the genus Candolleomyces (Psathyrellaceae, Basidiomycota) occurring in the bed of the Indus River, Punjab, Pakistan, reveal three new species

During macrofungal surveys in 2019-2024, several specimens belonging to the family Psathyrellaceae were collected from the bed of the Indus River, Punjab, Pakistan. Phylogenetic analyses, based on ITS, LSU, and tef-1α sequences and morpho-anatomical study, confirmed the novelty and placement of three taxa in the genus <i>Candolleomyces</i>. They are described as <i>Candolleomycescrenatus</i>, <i>C.undulatus</i>, and <i>C.virgatus</i>. For distinguishing characters, <i>C.crenatus</i> has crenate cap margins, small basidiospores, and a marginate base of stipe. <i>Candolleomycesundulatus</i> has parabolic to campanulate, wavy margins, light purplish gray with a light brownish gray center of pileus, and an appendiculate, pendant annulus. <i>Candolleomycesvirgatus</i> has a parabolic to plane, distinct umbo, a virgate surface of pileus, 1-7 tiers, forking lamellae, and longitudinal striation on the surface of the stipe. Currently, <i>Candolleomyces</i> comprises 60 formally recognized species worldwide. However, with the inclusion of these three species, the total number rises to 63. Detailed descriptions, a phylogenetic estimate, morphological comparisons, and illustrations are provided.