Host specialization and molecular evidence support a distinct species of smut fungus, Anthracoidea hallerianae (Anthracoideaceae), on Carex halleriana (Cyperaceae)

Abstract: The species of Anthracoidea on Carex are host-specific smut fungi restricted to sedges belonging to the same or closely related sections. They are characterized by sori that form black, hard bodies around aborted nuts of their hosts. In Carex sect. Hallerianae, only one species, C. halleriana, is known as a host of Anthracoidea. The taxonomic status of this smut fungus was problematic due to a lack of molecular data. It has been reported under different names, mainly as “A. caricis” or “A. irregularis”. A comparative morphological study and molecular phylogenetic analysis, using LSU (large subunit) nuclear rDNA sequences, supported the recognition of a distinct species, A. hallerianae. The new species is described and illustrated based on material from Central Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, the Balkan Peninsula, the Mediterranean area and Transcaucasia. Citation: Denchev T. T., Denchev C. M., Koopman J., Begerow D. & Kemler M. 2021: Host specialization and molecular evidence support a distinct species of smut fungus, Anthracoidea hallerianae (Anthracoideaceae), on Carex halleriana (Cyperaceae). – Willdenowia 51: 57–67. Version of record first published online on 9 March 2021 ahead of inclusion in April 2021 issue.