Multiple evidence for recognition of Phlebia tuberculata, a more widespread segregate of Phlebia livida (Polyporales, Basidiomycota)

It has been previously shown that the Phlebia livida complex consists of two incompatible subspecies, viz. ssp. livida and ssp. tuberculata. Here, we explain that the two subspecies can be distinguished based on morphology, phylogenetic analyses of nuclear ITS sequences, genetic distance, and a haplotype network, as well as by substrate preference. Subspecies tuberculata is raised to specific rank and a thorough description is provided. According to the results of the network analysis, Phlebia tuberculata comb. nov. seems to be an older species than Phlebia livida, congruent with its wider distribution, and at least some of its present populations have survived in the Caucasus region during the last glaciation. A key to the species of the Phlebia livida complex is presented.