Where are the short-range endemics among Western Australian macrofungi?

Abstract

There are 491 Western Australian (WA) basidiomycete macrofungi, most of which are found also in eastern Australia (78.4%) or overseas. Only 52 (10.6%) endemic WA species have been identified. Of the 32 WA endemics known from more than one location, most (25) have ranges greater than 100 km, even though they are usually represented by few collections (average 4.2). It is considered likely that further collecting will extend ranges. Only Torrendia grandis and T. inculta are known from several collections from the one restricted area, in the Kellerberrin district. Otherwise there is no conclusive evidence for short-range endemism or for any particular centres of narrow endemism for macrofungi. This also appears to be the case for eastern Australia, with the only exceptions being a few fungi of very narrow host range or very specific substratum requirements. Where sufficient collections are available to determine distribution, most Australian macrofungi seem to be very widespread. A model to explain the lack of short-range endemism in macrofungi will need to draw on detailed knowledge of the phylogeny and population genetics of macrofungi, which is currently lacking. The absence of short-range endemic macrofungi also necessitates reconsideration of conservation strategies for macrofungi, since such species are prime candidates for listing on conservation schedules.