Integrating morphology and phylogenetics reveals new species, records, and provides an updated checklist of Trichiaceae in China

The Trichiaceae, a major family of Myxomycetes, has undergone significant taxonomic revision in recent years. Yet, systematic research on this group in China remains limited, resulting in outdated taxonomy and persistent gaps in species diversity and biogeographic understanding. To resolve this, this study performed a comprehensive revision of Chinese Trichiaceae, combining morphological analysis (light and scanning electron microscopy) and multigene phylogenetics (nuclear 18S rDNA, elongation factor-1 alpha, and mitochondrial small subunit ribosomal RNA) based on specimens deposited in the Herbarium of Fungi at Nanjing Normal University and the Herbarium Mycologicum, Academiae Sinicae. We also synthesized published literature to compile an updated checklist of 65 species with detailed Chinese distribution records. This study describes two new species (Metatrichia scintillans and Trichia coronata), revises one species (Oligonema latitubulare), and reports four new records for China (Ophiotheca calongei, Trichia acetocorticola, Trichia pinicola, and Trichia taeniifila). This study addresses key knowledge gaps in China’s myxomycete biota and provides a standardized framework for future research on Trichiaceae biodiversity and taxonomy.