Ascomycota Diversity in Bingöl (Türkiye): New Records and Contributions

This study aims to enhance our understanding of Ascomycota biodiversity in Bingöl Province by presenting data obtained through systematic macrofungal field surveys conducted between 2018 and 2025. As a result of this research, a total of 16 species belonging to the classes Pezizomycetes, Leotiomycetes, and Sordariomycetes were identified. Among these species, Ascobolus lignatilis Alb. & Schwein. (1805), Ascocoryne albida (Berk.) Seifert (2014), and Olla scrupulosa (P. Karst.) Svrček (1986) are newly recorded for Türkiye, while the remaining 13 species represent new records for Bingöl Province. Notably, the genus Olla is reported from Türkiye for the first time, representing a novel contribution to the national mycobiota. Species identification was based on macro- and micromorphological features, supported by detailed descriptions, calibrated microscopic measurements, digital illustrations, and habitat photographs, all of which clarify the diagnostic characteristics. These findings reveal that Bingöl Province hosts a previously underestimated diversity of Ascomycota and underscore its significance as a regional reservoir of fungal diversity.