Researchers describe two new Perennicordyceps species and one new host record from China using morphology and multilocus phylogeny across nrLSU, ITS, nrSSU, tef-1α, rpb1 and rpb2. The new taxa formed supported lineages and expand knowledge of insect- and fungus-associated members of the genus.
Key findings
- Perennicordyceps liupanshuiensis occurred on a coleopteran larva, while P. tielingensis was associated with an Ophiocordyceps stipe. Supported phylogenetic placement, multilocus sequence differences, phialide and conidial morphology, and host associations distinguished them from relatives.
Why this matters globally
Rigorous species and host documentation improves entomopathogenic-fungal biodiversity records needed for evolutionary, ecological and future bioprospecting research.
Thai researcher contribution
A researcher affiliated with Mae Fah Luang and Chiang Mai universities joined the international taxonomic team. The specimens came from China, so this reflects Thai institutional expertise rather than a Thai field discovery.
Limitations to consider
Specimens and sites were limited, stable culture was unavailable for one taxon, and delimitation depends on loci and taxon sampling. Whole genomes, ecological function, host specificity and metabolites remain unknown. Individual Zenodo treatments are components of this article and should not be counted separately.