PL EN
Morpho-anatomical re-evaluation and ecological baseline of Boletus and Xerocomus species (Boletaceae) in Mediterranean cork oak forests of north-western Morocco
 
More details
Hide details
1
Laboratory of Botany, Biotechnologies, and Plant Protection, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
 
2
Pluridisciplinary Faculty of Nador, Mohammed 1st University, Oujda, Morocco
 
 
Corresponding author
Ali Outocoumit   

Laboratory of Botany, Biotechnologies, and Plant Protection, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
 
 
 
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Mediterranean forest ecosystems, particularly the Mamora cork oak (Quercus suber) forest in Morocco, host significant ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal diversity that contributes to tree vigor and soil stability. However, taxonomic uncertainties and anthropogenic pressures pose challenges to biodiversity conservation. This study provides a detailed re-evaluation of four key Boletaceae taxa collected in north-western Morocco: Boletus aereus, Boletus reticulatus (syn. Boletus aestivalis), Xerocomus badius (from Khmiss-es-Sahel, a new habitat record), and the endemic taxon described as Boletus mamorensis. In light of modern molecular phylogenetics, we critically reassess the taxonomic status of B. mamorensis, evaluating its rank as a geographical variant/form within the Boletus aereus complex ratherQ than an independent species. We document precise geographic micro-coordinates, voucher numbers deposited in the Herbarium of Ibn Tofail University , detailed quantitative spore metrics and qualitative human disturbance observations. While anthropogenic harvesting and recent climatic droughts impact sporocarp production, future integrative taxonomy employing ITS/LSU barcoding will be necessary to resolve species boundaries definitively.
Journals System - logo
Scroll to top