Paxillus swaticus (Boletales; Paxillaceae): a new alder associated species within P. rubicundulus complex and the first confirmed report of the genus from Pakistan

Based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidences from the ITS and LSU regions of the nrDNA, Paxillus swaticus is described here as a new species.This discovery also represents the first confirmed report of the genus Paxillus in Pakistan.The new species belongs to the well-known P. rubicundulus complex within P. subgenus.Alnopaxillus, which includes alder associated taxa.Colored photographs of fresh basidiomata along-with line drawings from the microscopic observations are provided and comparison with the associated species are discussed.This report will hopefully bridge the existing knowledge gaps and understanding of the diversity and phylogenetic relationship within Paxillus.