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Woody substrates were collected in 5 freshwater streams in Hong Kong and the fungi on these substrates were investigated. A total of 153 species were identified, comprising 61 ascornycete and 92 mitosporic taxa, and 20% were previously undescribed. About 30% of the ascornycetes belonged to the genera Annulatascus (Annulatascaceae), Aniptodera, Savoryella (Halosphaeriaceae), Ophioceras, Pseudohalonectn'a (Magnaporthaceae) and Massarina (Lophiostomataceae). Endophragmiella, Heljcosponum and Sporoschisma were common mitosporic genera. Species overlap occurred between different streams, and a few fungi were common in Hong Kong streams. Species composition in the Tung Chung River was distinct, and factors causing variations are discussed. S a m p h g techniques, the ecological role and distribution of fungi on submerged wood are discussed.

The last twenty years have witnessed molecular data emerge as a primary research instrument in most branches of mycology. Fungal systematics, taxonomy, and ecology have all seen tremendous progress and have undergone rapid, far-reaching changes as disciplines in the wake of continual improvement in DNA sequencing technology. A taxonomic study that draws from molecular data involves a long series of steps, ranging from taxon sampling through the various laboratory procedures and data analysis to the publication process. All steps are important and influence the results and the way they are perceived by the scientific community. The present paper provides a reflective overview of all major steps in such a project with the purpose to assist research students about to begin their first study using DNA-based methods. We also take the opportunity to discuss the role of taxonomy in biology and the life sciences in general in the light of molecular data. While the best way to learn molecular methods is to work side by side with someone experienced, we hope that the present paper will serve to lower the learning threshold for the reader.