Scientists Correct Centuries-Old Mushroom Taxonomy Error
Genetic analysis confirms two distinct mushroom species, ending decades of misidentification in global research databases.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Botany
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Researchers at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew have officially distinguished Ganoderma lucidum from Ganoderma lingzhi, correcting a centuries-old botanical error. The team confirmed that the two species diverged 16 million years ago, clarifying the taxonomy of the well-known mushroom.
Why it matters
This study resolves a taxonomic confusion that has persisted since 1781, when William Curtis first detailed Ganoderma lucidum without a surviving type specimen. The findings demonstrate the necessity of genetic validation in mycology, as widespread misidentification has plagued research databases for decades.
Genetic sequencing shows that Ganoderma lucidum and Ganoderma lingzhi split into distinct evolutionary paths 16 million years ago. DNA analysis confirms that current public records are heavily corrupted, with only 13% of barcode sequences correctly identified.
The players
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
A world-leading botanic research institution that houses an extensive collection of fungal specimens at its Kew Fungarium.
Dr. Viktor Papp
A researcher who identified the crucial 18th-century mislabeled specimen that allowed for the taxonomic correction.
The details
Researchers utilized DNA analysis to compare the genetic profile of a rediscovered 18th-century mushroom specimen from a hazel tree against existing Ganoderma genetic data. The original type specimen described by William Curtis had vanished, leading scientists to misidentify similar-looking fungi for over two centuries. The team officially redesignated the European species Ganoderma lucidum as False Lingzhi to resolve the naming conflict.
Timeline
16 million years ago: The two species split into different evolutionary paths.
1781: William Curtis first detailed Ganoderma lucidum.
2025: Dr. Viktor Papp uncovered the mislabeled mushroom specimen.
September 2026: Scientists recognized the species Ganoderma sinolucidum.
October 27, 2026: The study was published in the journal Plants, People, Planet.
The Tech Race
This study marks a significant correction in the global effort to catalog fungal biodiversity using genomic data. It highlights the discrepancy between historical botanical naming conventions and modern molecular phylogeny in the race to map the Tree of Life.
This correction changes how mycologists and researchers classify these mushrooms in future studies and database entries. It requires institutions to re-verify existing genetic barcodes to ensure accuracy in medicinal and ecological research.
The takeaway
This taxonomic correction emphasizes that historical mushroom classifications must be cross-referenced with modern DNA sequencing. Researchers and enthusiasts should track updates in the Plants, People, Planet journal for further revisions to fungal nomenclature.
Further reading
Learn more about advancements in plant and fungal research in the Botany section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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