Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Evidence Reveal a New Record Species of the Genus Cyclocybe (Strophariaceae) from Pakistan

The specimens were collected during monsoon season from district Swabi, Khyber Pukhtunkhwa, Pakistan in 2023. Cyclocybe aegerita was identified as a new record of the species for Pakistan. This study makes an important contribution to fungal taxonomy by integrating morphological and phylogenetic analyses using universal barcode markers, namely the ITS region. The Maximum likelihood approach was used to build phylogenic trees. Their detailed morphological description and illustrations are provided. This species constitutes new records and additions to Pakistan mycobiota based on morphological and molecular conclusions. This study enhances our knowledge of fungal diversity by scrutinizing both morphological traits and genetic profiles.