A discussion on the genus Fomitiporella (Hymenochaetaceae, Hymenochaetales) and first record of F. americana from southern South America

Research reveals that the fungal genus Fomitiporella is paraphyletic, with several distinct lineages previously grouped under it. Phylogenetic analysis of 28S and ITS nuc rDNA sequences, combined with morphological and ecological data, identified a well-supported core group within Fomitiporella while distinguishing other genera like Arambarria, Inocutis, and Phellinotus based on traits such as macro and micromorphology or biogeographic distribution. Notably, the study reports the first record of Fomitiporella americana in southern South America, specifically in Patagonian forests and historic churches of Chiloé Island, Chile, where it contributes to white heart-rot decay in standing Austrocedrus chilensis. This discovery expands the known distribution of the species and highlights its role in degrading wooden structures, with implications for conservation efforts.

Pildain, M. B., Reinoso Cendoya, R., Ortiz-Santana, B., Becerra, J., & Rajchenberg, M. (2018). A discussion on the genus Fomitiporella (Hymenochaetaceae, Hymenochaetales) and first record of F. americana from southern South America. MycoKeys, 38, 77–91. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.38.27310