The genus Hebeloma in the alpine belt of the Carpathians including two new species

Between 2002 and 2012 regular visits to the Carpathians were made and a number of Hebeloma spp. were collected from the alpine area. In total 44 collections were made that represent 11 species, two of which, Hebeloma grandisporum and H oreophilum, are described here as new. Of the 11 species, four (H alpinum, H marginatulum and the two species described as new) are known only from alpine or Arctic habitats. Hebeloma dunense and H mesophaeum are commonly found in, but not restricted to, alpine habitats. The other five species (H aanenii, H laterinum, H naviculosparum, H vaccinum, H velutipes) are usually found in lowland or boreal habitats. Hebeloma naviculosporum is reported for the first time from the alpine zone and H alpinum for the first time as growing with Helianthemum. All but two species (H alpinum, H marginatulum) are reported for the first time from the Carpathian alpine zone. In this paper we discuss the habitat, the 11 recorded species and give detailed descriptions of the two new species, both morphologically and molecularly. A key for Hebeloma species from sect. Hebeloma occurring in Arctic-alpine habitats is provided.