Capronia harrisiana (Ascomycota, Chaetothyriales), a new lichenicolous species on Crocodia aurata from the southern Appalachian Mountains of southeastern North America

Abstract

Capronia harrisiana, a lichenicolous fungus on the tripartite foliose lichen Crocodia aurata, is described as new to science. Although the host species is widespread in many areas of the world, no species of Capronia has previously been reported from Crocodia aurata, and Capronia harrisiana appears to be endemic to the southern Appalachian Mountains in southeastern North America. The new species is characterized by 50–120 µm wide ascomata, 40–95 µm long setae, (1–)3-septate, pale brown, 11.9–15.7 × 4.4–5.8 µm ascospores, and an I+ red hymenium. An updated key to the lichenicolous species of Capronia is provided.