Helicogloea hangzhouensis
Physalacria tianzhongshanensis
By Jin Yingying
In a groundbreaking biological survey across Hangzhou, researchers stumbled upon new species in Fuyang and Xiaoshan districts.
In the lush realms of Fuyang district, a fascinating discovery was made - a new species of fungus, which is now officially recognized in the prestigious Mycology journal. This species, discovered on the serene slopes of Tianzhongshan Mountain beside the Fuchun River, has been aptly named the Physalacria tianzhongshanensis (scientific name).
This new mushroom species stands out for its unique appearance. Unlike the typical mushroom, it sports a petite, cup or disc-shaped body without a stem, reaching about 1 cm in diameter. Fresh specimens boast a white to cream color, thriving on the dead branches of broadleaf trees. This marks the second fungal species discovered in Fuyang district, initially found exclusively on Tianzhongshan Mountain but later also spotted on Magongshan Mountain in Yongchang town as research deepened.
Over in Xiaoshan district's Shiniushan Mountain, researchers have uncovered a new fungi species. Officially documented in March 2024 in the Mycology journal, this species, Helicogloea hangzhouensis owes its name to its discovery location in Hangzhou. This entirely new species boasts gelatinous, raindrop-like fruiting bodies, especially during the high humidity of rainy days. Each of these tiny bodies measures just 2-4mm, often found clustered together on the decayed wood and fallen branches of broadleaf trees. This discovery marks Hangzhou's entry into the list of cities with a gelatinous fungus named in their honor. To date, the genus to which this fungus belongs comprises 36 species worldwide, making this the first instance of such a species being documented in China for forming fruiting bodies.