Multilocus phylogeny contributes to fungal taxonomy with three novel species of <i>Conocybe</i> (Bolbitiaceae) from southern Punjab, Pakistan

Advancements in fungal taxonomy have been significantly enhanced by multilocus phylogenetic analyses, which improve the precision of species identification. This study also employs such methods to investigate the genus <i>Conocybe</i>, resulting in the description of three novel species, viz. <i>C. hasiluprensis</i> and <i>C. sultanii</i> belonging to the section <i>Pilosellae</i> and <i>C. ferruginae</i> of section <i>Conocybe</i>, from southern Punjab, Pakistan. Field collections yielded specimens that were examined morphologically and genetically, using a multilocus phylogenetic analysis utilizing sequences from the ITS, 28S, and <i>TEF1-α</i> regions. A combined phylogenetic tree was constructed through maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods, revealing three novel taxa occupying their respective distinct branches. Further, morphological analysis complemented the genetic data, with each species displaying unique characteristics. This study not only adds to the fungal biodiversity of Pakistan but also provides a robust framework for future taxonomic and ecological research in the region. In addition, we provide a key to the known species of <i>Conocybe</i> in Pakistan.