Lactifluus (Russulaceae) diversity in Central America and the Caribbean: melting pot between realms

• DOI: 10.3767/persoonia.2020.44.10
• Publication Date: 2020-06-13T01:05:35Z
• Authors: L. Delgat; R. Courtecuisse; E. De Crop; F. Hampe; T.A. Hofmann; C. Manz; M. Piepenbring; M. Roy; A. Verbeken
• Keywords: Mainland; Caribbean region

Species of the ectomycorrhizal genus Lactifluus, and often entire sections, are typically unique to a single continent. Given these biogeographic patterns, an interesting region study their diversity is Central America Caribbean, since closely connected considered part North American continent, but biogeographically belong Neotropical realm, comprises several regions with different geologic histories. Based on multi-gene phylogeny morphological study, this shows that America, Mexico Caribbean harbour at least 35 Lactifluus species, which 33 were never reported outside region. It was found species from generally show affinities South taxa, while mainland Northern hemispheric taxa. We hypothesise host specificity and/or climate play crucial role in origins diversity. Because affinities, islands completely than mainland. The majority occurring can be endemic certain or island groups. In paper, detailed descriptions given, focus islands, identification keys all hitherto described provided. One new section, sect. Nebulosi, three guadeloupensis, lepus marmoratus described.