Discovery of New Fungus Species: Trichoglossum syamviswanathii

Scientists from the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) have identified a new fungus species, Trichoglossum syamviswanathii, named after Syam Viswanath for his contributions to Indian forestry.

Discovery Details:

Naming and Recognition:

• The species is named after Syam Viswanath, a distinguished scientist and former director of KFRI, in recognition of his contributions to Indian forestry.

Collection and Habitat:

• Trichoglossum syamviswanathii was collected from the moist soil of Bambusetum at the KFRI Field Research Centre, Palappilly, Thrissur.
• Thrissur is part of the Western Ghats, known for its diverse flora, fauna, and fungi.
  • Western Ghats is renowned for its abundant fungal diversity, including many endemic species.

About Trichoglossum syamviswanathii:

• Trichoglossum syamviswanathii belongs to the family Geoglossaceae (Ascomycota).
• It belongs to the genus Trichoglossum.
• Commonly known as “hairy earth tongues” fungus.

Distinctive Features:

• Exhibits club-shaped apothecia in dark shades of black or brown.

Global Distribution:

• Globally, the genus Trichoglossum has 55 records, with poor representation in India.
• The genus Trichoglossum is globally distributed in tropical and temperate forests across five continents.
• Exhibits saprotrophic behaviour but can also be found as an endophyte in plant roots.
• Ecological factors play an important role on the morphology and distribution of the fungal forms.

Ecological Role:

• Plays a crucial role in decomposing organic matter.
• Contributes to the breakdown of dead plant material, aiding in nutrient recycling in forest ecosystems.

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