Truncospora macrospora

Truncospora macrospora is a species of poroid fungus in the family Polyporaceae. It was described as new to science in 2013 by Chinese mycologists Bao-Kai Cui and Chang-Lin Zhao. The fungus, found in southwest China, is distinguished by its annual growth habit, and the distinct dark brownish crust on its caps. The semicircular caps measure about 1.5 – long, 2.5 – wide, and 1 – thick. Microscopic characteristics include its relatively large spores (for which the fungus is named), measuring 16.5–19.5 by 8.0–9.5 μm, which have a strongly dextrinoid reaction. The type was collected in the Gaoligong Mountains (Baoshan, Yunnan) at an altitude of 2400 m, where it was found growing on a fallen angiosperm branch.

Molecular phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a close relationship of T. macrospora to Truncospora ochroleuca. This latter species is distinguished by its cream to ochre cap, and smaller spores that measure 14.0–17.0 by 7.0–9.5 μm.