Validation and typification of the name Claviceps zizaniae

Abstract

The binomial, Claviceps zizaniae, has not previously been validly published. The basionym, Spermoedia zizaniae, was improperly neotypified and is here lectotypified and that type is epitypified. The history of the discovery and description of this ergot fungus on wild rice, Zizania aquatica, and the roles of the main contributors, Faith Fyles, Charles M. Wright, Ibra Conners and Maria Pantidou, are outlined.