Relationship between Panus lecomtei and P. strigellus inferred from their morphological, molecular and biological characteristics

Abstract Panus strigellus was first recorded in Amazonas State of Brazil. This edible mushroom has macroscopic characteristics similar to those of P . lecomtei . In this study, we used evidence obtained from a morphological comparison, molecular analyses and mating tests to clarify the taxonomic status of P. strigellus and show differences compared to the sympatric species of Panus . In addition, this paper discusses and reports some morphological characteristics of P. strigellus . The tetrapolar mating system of P . strigellus and the incompatibility between P. lecomtei and P. strigellus was confirmed. The geographical distributions of both species in the Americas are presented.