Diversity and distribution of coprophilous Saccobolus species in Ukraine

Abstract

This study provides the first comprehensive account of the genus Saccobolus in Ukraine. Fourteen species are listed and discussed, with data on their distribution and substrate preferences. Detailed morphological descriptions and photomicrographs of Ukrainian collections of Saccobolus diffusus, S. dilutellus, and S. succineus are presented here for the first time. The most frequently recorded taxa in Ukraine were S. citrinus, S. depauperatus, S. minimus, S. saccoboloides and S. truncatus. In contrast, S. caesariatus, S. diffusus, S. dilutellus, S. obscurus, S. succineus and S. thaxteri appear to be rare in Ukraine, several of which are also globally uncommon. Saccobolus glaber, S. verrucisporus and S. versicolor are widespread but infrequently recorded in Ukraine. An updated identification key to all coprophilous species of Saccobolus recorded in Ukraine is presented.