First report of Calvatia fragilis Fr. (Basidiomycota) in Central-West Brazil

Abstract

Calvatia fragilis, a species belonging to the Basidiomycota phylum, is noted for its presence in tropical and neotropical regions. However, this fungus has been scarcely documented in natural habitats in Brazil. The present study aims to enhance the understanding of the geographical distribution of Calvatia fragilis, reporting the first record of this species in a Cerrado ecosystem, specifically in the Brazilian Midwest, in the State of Goiás. The discovery site is an area dedicated to agricultural production, characterized by a red dystroferric clay soil. In December 2023, specimens of Calvatia fragilis were collected in this region. The gathered basidiomes were meticulously catalogued and identified using a specific identification key for the Calvatia genus. Prior to this study, records of the species were limited to the States of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul. This research expands the knowledge on the distribution of Calvatia fragilis, now including the State of Goiás among the Brazilian areas where this fungus occurs.