Researchers in northern Thailand have discovered 16 new species of fungi living among garden and wildflowers, greatly expanding the known variety of these organisms in the country. The findings, published in the journal IMA Fungus, reveal that these fungi belong to the genus Aureobasidium, a group of dark, yeast-like organisms found in a wide range of environments, from human skin to glacial ice. Some species in this group are already used in industries for producing enzymes, controlling plant diseases, and even breaking down plastic. The study was conducted by scientists from Chiang Mai University and Kasetsart University, who collected 54 fungal strains from 31 different flower species during a 2024 survey. These included common garden plants like bougainvillea, butter daisy, and periwinkle. Using DNA analysis of five gene regions, microscopic observation, and growth experiments, the team identified 16 new species, along with five that were already known. Of the known species, four had not been previously recorded in Thailand. Professor Nakarin Suwannarach of Chiang Mai University explained that the team was prompted to investigate Aureobasidium after frequently finding it in their flower samples. They observed significant differences in the appearance and other traits of the fungi, hinting at a greater diversity than previously thought. However, identifying the new species was difficult, as many looked nearly identical under the microscope, and standard DNA markers were not enough to tell them apart. To overcome this challenge, the researchers combined data from multiple genetic regions with information on the fungi's physical traits, growth patterns, and temperature preferences. This approach allowed them to more accurately distinguish species that were very closely related. Suwannarach noted that this was unexpected, given that Aureobasidium is a well-studied group, but the study revealed a surprising amount of previously unknown diversity in Thailand. Most of the newly discovered species are named after the flowers in which they were found, such as Aureobasidium bougainvilleae and A. plumeriae. Others are named after locations in northern Thailand, while two species, A. saisamorniae and A. savitreeae, honor Thai mycologists Saisamorn Lumyong and Savitree Limtong. Suwannarach explained that the naming choices were intended to reflect the fungi's origins or to recognize individuals who have contributed to mycological research in Thailand. The study underscores the importance of precise species identification, as some Aureobasidium species can cause opportunistic infections in humans. Having a clear record of naturally occurring species will help scientists track any changes in their behavior over time. Suwannarach emphasized that using multilocus phylogenetic analysis—examining multiple genetic markers—helps not only in naming new species but also in uncovering hidden fungal diversity. This research provides a crucial baseline for future monitoring of fungal populations in the region.