Underground Explorers

The main goal of our project is to advance the knowledge on the systematics and diversity of ectomycorrhizal clavarioid mushrooms in underexplored regions of Mexico. Genus Clavulina is a well-known ectomycorrhizal fungus with high diversity in Mexico. However, other clavarioid genera, like Clavulinopisis and Ramariopsis, are poorly known in our country and therefore deserve more attention. We will sample basidiomata in regions of Sierra Norte de Puebla and Sierra Madre Occidental, which include temperate and cloud forests. For all specimens we will obtain DNA sequences of ITS and 28S ribosomal loci, as well as detailed macroscopic and microscopic descriptions, which will allow us to identify new records and new species. Considering the high diversity of plant hosts and ecosystems, we hypothesize that the sampled region harbors a high diversity of undescribed species. On the other hand, the new information on Clavulina will help us to evaluate the conservation status of some known species using IUCN standards. Local people will be involved in the project by exchanging knowledge through workshops, increasing awareness of the local fungal diversity and the importance of its protection at all levels.