O gênero Cyathus (Nidulariaceae, Basidiomycota) para o Brasil: contribuições taxonômicas para Cyathus berkeleyanus

Abstract

Cyathus is a genus of gasteroid fungi characterized by small basidiomes, with discoid structures inside. Widely distributed in Brazil and worldwide, the genus has enormous pharmacological biotechnological importance, besides acting actively in nutrient cycling and decomposition of organic matter. Recent studies have shown that there are some inconsistencies in species descriptios, including lack of type material in exsiccates deposited in fungi collections. Collected by Charles Darwin in Rio de Janeiro in 1832, the type specimen of Cyathus berkeleyanus has not been found in any possible collection in the world. Thus, a manuscript was developed to delimit a new collection for C. berkeleyanus to provide support for future studies involving the species. Trough an updated description, with photo plates, as well as an extensive review of the species, including its possible location over the years, the proposed delimitation for C. berkeleyanus demonstrates the need for conservation of biological collections to allow future researchers to use them in their studies.