Genetic Diversity of Dahongjun, the Commercially Important "Big Red Mushroom'' from Southern China

Background: In southern China, a wild ectomycorrhizal mushroom commonly called "Dahongjun'' or "Big Red Mushroom'' by the local residents, has been harvested, consumed, and/or exported as an exotic food for many years. Although ecologically and economically important, very little is known about this mushroom, including its diversity and population structure.