Current distribution data for the red-listed species of aphyllophoroid fungi in Ukraine

M.V. Shevchenko,V.P. Heluta,V.P. Hayova,M.O. Zykova

doi:10.15407/ukrbotj78.01.047

Abstract

The article provides current information on distribution patterns of six species of aphyllophoroid fungi (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine: Clavariadelphus pistillaris, Gomphus clavatus, Hericium coralloides, Picipes rhizophilus, Polyporus umbellatus, and Sparassis crispa. Altogether, about 500 occurrences of the fungal fruitbodies in the country are reported. Of them, over 410 recent observations have been added to those published in the Red Data Book of Ukraine in 2009. Majority of that data has been provided over the last few years via mushroom citizen science, i.e. involvement of volunteers in collecting distribution data for macrofungi with large and distinctive fruitbodies. Only specialist-verified observations were included in the datasets reported in the article. The compiled data will serve as a considerably improved basis for future re-assessments of the conservation status of these threatened species for the next edition of the Red Data Book of Ukraine.

Highlights

Aphyllophoroid fungi (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota), both decomposers and mycorrhizal symbionts, are essential component of forest ecosystems
For six species of aphyllophoroid fungi listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine (2009), all known up to now records in Ukraine, from historical to the most recent ones, are reported
A great opportunity to improve the information on fungal occurrence has been provided via mushroom citizen science, i.e. involvement of volunteers in collecting distribution data for macrofungi, those having large, observed fruitbodies

Summary

Introduction

Aphyllophoroid fungi (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota), both decomposers and mycorrhizal symbionts, are essential component of forest ecosystems. Woodinhabiting macrofungi that are capable of decomposing dead wood play a vital role in recycling processes. Wood-decay fungi as well as litter saprobionts provide a variety of viable habitats for turnover of various biodiversity elements. Maintaining diversity of aphyllophoroid fungi is crucial for ecosystem functioning. Fungal conservation requires sufficient knowledge on the occurrence and species-specific distribution patterns of the fungi. There are many gaps in the knowledge on distribution and other limitations for fungal red-listing, an increased number of aphyllophoroid fungi, including those reported in this article, has been red-listed nationally and internationally over recent years (http://iucn.ekoo.se/iucn/species_list/)

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Conclusion