The species of Scleroderma from Argentina, including a new species from the Nothofagus forest

Five ectomycorrhizal species of Sclerodernza were identified from herbarium and field-collected specimens from Argentina. A new hypogeous species, Scleroderma patagonicum, was recorded in association with native No thofagus spp. in Patagonia. The epigeous species S. albidum, S. areolatum, S. bovista and S. citrinum were associated with various exotic tree species. A phylogenetic analysis based on the ITS region of Scleroderma species, including S. patagonicum, illustrates its distinct status within Sclffoderma, including its placement among species with reticulate spores. Descriptions with SEM images of the spores and a key to the species are provided.