Molecular techniques revolutionize knowledge of basidiomycete evolution

A brief survey towards an understanding of evolution of Basidiomycota in the last five decades is given. Between 1960-1990 studies were based mainly on morphology, subcellular structure, biochemistry, physiology and ecology. In the last 20 years, molecular methods have revolutionized the study of taxonomy, systematics, phylogeny, biogeography, population and microevolutionary processes in basidiomycetes. A fundamental improvement in the understanding of evolution of basidiomycetes has been achieved. It is anticipated that numerous new taxa at different taxonomic levels will be recognized based on integrated approaches, and new data will soon provide fascinating insights into the origin, evolution and biogeography of basidiomycetes in the coming years.