Host range, geographical distribution and probable ecological status of Catathelasma imperiale in North America

Catathelasma imperiale (Fr.) Singer is a conifer-associated circumboreal species, found in Europe, Asia, as well as North America, where in the latter it has long been regarded principally as a western species. Characters of the basidiomata are well documented but little is known of its biology and cultural characters. This paper reports on its probable ecological status as an ectomycorrhizal former based on its previously unreported cultural characters and in vitro mycorrhizal synthesis experiments; in addition, its association with various coniferous hosts is listed along with an expanded geographical range in North America.