Several species of tiny fungi, completely new to science and all from Alberta, have been discovered through extensive research by the University of Alberta. Over a 13-year study, researchers identified three new evolutionary groups and 13 new species of “stubble fungi,” named for their resemblance to beard whiskers. Additionally, the study reported 29 species found for the first time in the province, including nine in Edmonton.
The findings increase the total number of calicioids in Alberta to 73 and underscore the undiscovered biodiversity present in the region. “These discoveries show the undiscovered biodiversity we have right in our own backyard,” said Diane Haughland, a lichen scientist and lecturer in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, who led the study.
Unveiling Alberta’s Hidden Riches
The newly discovered fungi were found in diverse locations, from a dog park in Edmonton’s river valley to a southern Alberta farmyard, wetlands, and foothills forests. These pin-like fungi with large heads grow on shrubs like wild rose bushes and carragana hedges, as well as on dead wood and native Alberta trees such as alder, poplar, and spruce.
The presence of these new species indicates a hidden richness across Alberta’s Parkland Natural Region, often heavily altered by urban and agricultural development. One notable discovery marks the first time stubble fungi were found on wild rose bushes in agricultural land. Haughland expressed her excitement, stating, “Alberta is home to 13 new species that have not been found anywhere else on the planet, including a few in our own urban backyard.”
Expanding the Taxonomic Record
Beyond Alberta, this foundational research significantly contributes to the taxonomic record for calicioids across North America. Four species of stubble fungi were reported as new to all of Canada, one species was documented for the first time in western North America, and new species were also discovered in the Yukon and Northwest Territories.
Haughland noted that these discoveries provide a better snapshot of biodiversity and can serve as indicators for preservation efforts.
“Functionally, many calicioids tend to occur in environments like old forests that have a lot of value from a conservation perspective. If we know that the fungi are more abundant in those habitats, that suggests these areas should be a priority for conservation.”
Collaboration and Conservation
The study was a collaboration with the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI) and utilized a combination of surveys, research studies, monitoring programs, and field collections to locate and identify new species. The research resulted in a comprehensive database of approximately 3,500 records, including detailed descriptions, high-quality photographs, distribution maps, and identification keys for 95% of the newly discovered species.
This resource serves as a guide to fill a knowledge gap about North American calicioids and allows scientists, environmental consultants, and hobbyists to find, identify, and protect these fungi more easily. Haughland emphasized the importance of this knowledge, stating,
“Knowing what species exist and where they live is the first step toward effective environmental monitoring and conservation. This resource is going to be helpful here, and around the world, for people to better understand both the existing and new species of stubble fungi.”
Implications and Future Research
Though tiny, calicioids have a giant appeal among scientists and enthusiasts alike. Haughland remarked on the allure of these fungi,
“As scientists, we just love these things. Many are colorful, and they are often found in interesting places that are fun to explore. There is a treasure hunt aspect — you need to learn how and where to look for them, and the reward feels like finding a mini pot of gold sometimes.”
Looking ahead, the discoveries highlight the need for continued exploration and conservation of Alberta’s natural habitats. The unique conditions that allow these species to thrive in Alberta may also exist elsewhere, prompting further research and conservation efforts globally. As Haughland notes, while the discovery of 13 new species unique to Alberta is exciting, it also makes them vulnerable, underscoring the importance of this research in guiding future conservation strategies.
