Whilst conducting surveys of lignicolous microfungi in Yunnan Province, we collected a large number of taxa that resemble Montagnula (Didymosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales). Our phylogenetic study on Montagnula involved analysing sequence data from ribosomal RNA genes (nc18S, nc28S, ITS) and protein-coding genes (rpb2, tef1-α). We present a biphasic approach (morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence) that supports the recognition of four new species in Montagnula viz., M. lijiangensis, M. menglaensis, M. shangrilana and M. thevetiae. The global diversity of Montagnula is also inferred from metabarcoding data and published records based on field observations. Metabarcoding data from GlobalFungi and field observations provided insights into the global diversity and distribution patterns of Montagnula. Studies conducted in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America revealed a concentration of Montagnula species, suggesting regional variations in ecological preferences and distribution. Montagnula species were found on various substrates, with sediments yielding a high number of sequences. Poaceae emerged as a significant contributor, indicating a potential association between Montagnula species and grasses. Culture-based investigations from previously published data revealed Montagnula species associations with 105 plant genera (in 45 plant families), across 55 countries, highlighting their wide ecological range and adaptability. This study enhances our understanding of the taxonomy, distribution, and ecological preferences of Montagnula species. It emphasizes their role in the decomposition of organic matter in grasslands and savannah systems and suggests further investigation into their functional roles in ecosystem processes. The global distribution patterns and ecological interactions of Montagnula species underscore the need for continued research and conservation efforts.

The complex and diverse phenomenon of fungal bioluminescence has captured human curiosity. Nevertheless, in the field of studies, there are not many attempts made particularly to reveal the new species of these interesting fungi. This study comprehensively reviews the diversity, distribution, evolution, bioluminescence mechanisms, ecological roles, and potential applications of these fungi. Most importantly, we also present an updated list of the reported bioluminescent fungi (122) so far identified from five distinct evolutionary lineages worldwide—Armillaria, Eoscyphella, Lucentipes, Mycenoid, and Omphalotus—mainly in tropical and subtropical areas. Bioluminescent fungi are descended from the last common ancestor of the Mycenoid and the Marasmioid clades of Agaricales, which have been maintained for at least 160 million years of evolution. We underscore the potential for future research to understand the ecological role of bioluminescent fungi, inspiring hope and optimism for the future of this field.

Seven species of bioluminescent mushrooms belonging to seven genera have been described in the tropical rainforests of China. This study contributes the eighth species, found growing on decaying bamboo in Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG). Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and ribosomal large subunit (LSU) gene regions placed the species within the genus Favolaschia. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, micro and macro photographs, and a phylogenetic tree showing the placement of the new species are provided. This is the second report of bioluminescent Favolaschia in China.

Inland waters face escalating anthropogenic pressures, driving an unprecedented collapse in freshwater biodiversity. Enhanced knowledge of aquatic taxa is essential to reverse this decline. Chironomidae (non‐biting midges), often the dominant zoobenthic group in freshwater ecosystems, remain poorly documented globally. Here, we provide the first integrative assessment of Chironomidae biodiversity in Hong Kong through a year‐long survey of five streams. Integrative taxonomy expanded the known species in Hong Kong from 17 to 243, and yielded a reference library of 827 cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcodes representing 225 species. Beta‐diversity partitioning revealed that community dissimilarity was primarily driven by species turnover, which was strongly associated with environmental gradients but only weakly related to geographic distance. Variation partitioning revealed that environmental factors explained slightly more variation in community composition (9.0%) than spatial factors (6.7%). These patterns indicate that environmental filtering and mass effects play key roles in structuring Chironomidae metacommunities in Hong Kong, with dispersal limitation exerting little influence. Cross‐database barcode matching analysis suggested that Hong Kong fauna is predominantly tropical‐to‐subtropical, with the strongest affinities to coastal East and Southeast Asia (e.g., eastern China, Thailand, Malaysia). Many species displayed wide geographic ranges, likely facilitated by high passive dispersal and broad ecological tolerances. This study delivers the first robust biodiversity baseline for Hong Kong Chironomidae and a well‐curated DNA barcode library. These resources will benefit taxonomic refinement and eDNA‐based biomonitoring, strengthening conservation of human‐impacted freshwater ecosystems.