Discovery of Rhodotus palmatus in the Fosso della Cecchignola

During a field activity, two researchers from ISPRA reported and collected a specimen of Rhodotus palmatus within the “Fosso della Cecchignola.” This Natural Monument, established as part of the Nature Reserves managed by RomaNatura and located in the Agro Romano area, represents a small but significant green space rich in biodiversity.

The species is currently classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, and its distribution in Italy remains sparse and localized. The finding confirms the importance of actively conserving mesophilic forest habitats and micro-ecological niches suitable for rare and specialized species.

The discovery has been reported to the Network for the Study of Mycological Diversity and to NNB – the National Biodiversity Network. The specimen has been sent to the ISPRA fungarium, contributing to the documentation and conservation of the national mycological heritage.

We invite mycologists from the network to report findings of threatened species, contributing data, photos, and specimens to the fungarium. Each new record enriches our knowledge and supports conservation strategies.