Fungal Diversity

Hyphomycete communities in water-filled treeholes, a microhabitat in woodland ecosystems are discussed. Thirteen treeholes in four mountainous and forested areas of Hungary were examined for hyphomycetes. Eleven treeholes were detected in beech (Fagus sylvatica) and one each in oak (Quercus sp.) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior). Forty-five hyphomycete species were detected in the treeholes. The species number per treehole ranged from 3 to 10, as seen after litter incubation, but reached 19 when membrane filtration of treehole-water was included. The most frequent species was Alatospora acuminata (over 80 % of treeholes). Distribution of Colispora cavincola appears to be restricted to treeholes. Conidia belonging to lesser known taxa, such as Arborispora, Dwayaangam, Trifurcospora and Trinacrium are discussed and illustrated. Membrane filtration of treehole-water suggests in situ sporulation of some aquatic hyphomycete species. Treeholes in SW Hungary were re-examined after 25 years and results suggest that they are long-lasting rather than ephemeral fungal microhabitats in woodland ecosystems