Morpho-molecular analysis reveals Appendiculella viticis sp. nov. (Meliolaceae)

Abstract

A novel species, Appendiculella viticis, was collected on freshly fallen leaves of Vitex canescens (Lamiaceae) in Chiang Rai, Thailand. This species is unique in having vertically striate, conoid cells, without larviform appendages and fusiform to ellipsoidal, guttulate ascospores. Morphological comparison and phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU and ITS sequence data provide evidence that the species is novel. Morphological comparisons of Appendiculella species are provided. The molecular data provides evidence to support the distinctness of Appendiculella.