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DOI: 10.48087/BJMS.2026.130401
Authors: Khatima MEZHOUD1, El Amine CHEROUAL2, Imene BOUFENARA1, Manar BOUHEDJA1, Wail BOUDRAA1.
Affiliations: 1- Université de Constantine3 Salah Boubnider – Algérie. 2– Université de Sétif – Algérie.
Abstract
Introduction. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance and conserve fungal biodiversity in Algeria, this study presents a comprehensive inventory of macromycetes across three regions of Eastern Algeria: Constantine, Skikda, and Jijel. Field surveys were conducted between November 2024 and May 2025, covering multiple mushroom fruiting periods. The primary objective is to contribute to a better understanding of local fungal diversity by documenting the species present, along with their taxonomic and ecological characteristics. Methods. Species identification was based on classical macroscopic criteria (morphology, coloration, odor, and texture), spore print analysis, and the use of specialized literature and digital tools to refine taxonomic classification. This combined approach enabled accurate identification of all species collected in the field. Results. A total of 41 macromycete species were accurately identified. The results reveal a clear predominance of the phylum Basidiomycota, with the majority of species belonging to the order Agaricales. The most represented families are Inocybaceae, Agaricaceae, and Polyporaceae. The recorded fungi are distributed between lignicolous habitats (decaying wood) and terricolous habitats (forest soils). Ecologically, the majority of species are saprophytic, playing an essential role in the decomposition of organic matter, while a smaller number of mycorrhizal and parasitic species were also recorded. Regarding edibility, approximately one-third of the identified species are edible, whereas the remainder are either inedible or toxic. Conclusion. This inventory highlights the richness and diversity of macromycetes in the forests of Eastern Algeria. The resulting dataset constitutes a valuable resource for future mycological research in the region and may inform the development of fungal biodiversity conservation strategies.
Keywords: Macromycetes, fungal biodiversity, inventory, Algeria.