Absidia variicolumellata, sp. nov., a new mucoralean fungus isolated from Atlantic Forest in Bahia state (Brazil)

During a survey on the diversity of Mucoromycota in Atlantic Forest soils from northeastern Brazil, one strain belonging to Absidia that was morphologically and genetically [internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) rDNA] distinct from other species was isolated. The new species produces simple or repeatedly branched (up to five times) sporangiophores that arise single or in whorls of up to eight from stolons, and hemispherical, globose, and fig-shaped columellae with no projections or with up to two projections on its surface. Sporangiospores are exclusively cylindrical and slightly constricted in the center. The specimen grew better at 25 and 30 degrees C, with no development at 40 degrees C. Based on the evidence of the analyzed datasets, a new species of Absidia is proposed. A table with the morphological characteristics of Absidia species from America (North, Central, and South) and species that are phylogenetically closest to the new species is provided.