Genetic structure of the Pleurotus ostreatus complex in the Moscow region

The complex taxonomic structure of the species Pleurotus ostreatus. the basidial fungi class, was analyzed by means of crosses between haploid and dikaryotic (diploid) stocks. Forty-three natural dikaryons identified as genetically separate individuals were divided into three intersterile groups corresponding to biological species. Stocks displaying partial reproductive isolation were also found in populations of the Moscow oblast (region). The possible routes of the fungus expansion in natural populations are discussed.