Leucoagaricus swaticus from Himalayan temperate forests of Pakistan

A novel mushroom species occurring on humus‐rich soil was collected from Himalayas of Swat and Khanspur, Pakistan. Phylogenetic analyses based on the nrDNA ITS region revealed that it belongs in Leucoagaricus sect. Leucoagaricus. Further morphological analyses confirmed its uniqueness, and here it is described as a new species under the name Leucoagaricus swaticus. The distinguishing characters of this novel taxon are a relatively large pileus with distinct, brownish red umbo, larger, smooth stipe and oblong to amygdaliform basidiospores (6.7–9.0 × 3.0–4.7 µm) with apical papilla. A detailed description of this taxon is provided.