A new record of Astraeus hygrometricus (Pers.) Morgan (Boletales, Basidiomycota) from Afghanistan

The mycorrhizal fungus, Astraeus hygrometricus, which was found thriving beneath Quercus baloot and Cedrus deodara trees is being documented in Afghanistan for the first time. Despite previous reports confirming the presence of this fungus in other parts of Asia, Europe and America, there is no prior documentation of its presence in Afghanistan. This report includes a protologue of the specimens collected from Afghanistan, showcasing both macro- and micro-morphological characteristics. Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images are provided for a detailed view of the basidiospores.