DNA Barcode Markers for Two New Species of Tiger Milk Mushroom: Lignosus tigris and L. cameronensis

Two new species of the tiger milk mushroom namely Lignosus tigris and L. cameronensis were reported recently based on studies on morphological characteristics. Both Lignosus species are known to be medicinal fungi and have potential to be used as functional food. Since intact fungal samples of the two Lignosus species are not always available for morphology-based identification a DNA barcode marker approach based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region via PCR technology has been developed. The DNA markers are highly specific and easily amplified thus allowing rapid identification and reliable authentication of these two Lignosus species. Identification and authentication of the fungi are important in view of the potential medicinal and functional food applications of the two fungi. Copyright 2014 Friends Science Publishers.