Contribution to the biosystematic study of carpophoric basidiomycetes (higher fungi) in the Dakar region (Senegal)

Abstract

In Senegal, fungi constitute a large and diverse systematic group. However, despite their numerous food and pharmacological potential, few studies have been devoted to this group, particularly carpophore fungi. This work is a contribution to the knowledge of macromycetes in Senegal. It specifically proposes to determine the structure of the fungi on the prospected sites and to propose identification tools.

Inventories were made at four (4) sites: two sites in Cheikh Anta DIOP University of Dakar (Botanical Garden, Faculty of Science and Technology and that of Faculty of Medicine), the Forest Park of Hann and the classified forest of Mbao. The identification and description of the samples were carried out based on macroscopic and ecological characteristics. This methodology allowed us to identify (15) morphotypes distributed in 2 subclasses of the Basidiomycetes class. They belong to 5 orders (Agaricales, Pluteales, Trichlomatales, Phallales, Gasterales), 7 families (Agaricaceae, Lepiotaceae, Pluteaceae, Marasmiaceae, Termitomycetaceae, Phallaceae, Sclerodermataceae) and 8 genera. Among these morphotypes, four (4) are identified down to the species level (Phallus roseus, Podaxis pistillaris, Micropsalliota cf elata and Scleroderma auriculatum) and 11 down to the genus. In this fungi group, the genus Termitomyces dominates with five (5) species, followed by the genus Volvaria with three (3) species.

This work made it possible to bring out the common and differential characters between the species. It then appeared that the mode of insertion of the foot is the only characteristic common to all species. In addition, the identification of discriminating characteristics made it possible to develop a key for determining all the species inventoried.