A major evolutionary branching divided fungi into two dominant lineages. One would give rise to yeasts, truffles, and many molds (Ascomycota). The other would produce mushrooms, puffballs, and bracket fungi (Basidiomycota). This split shaped nearly all modern fungal diversity.
Fungal Great Split: Ascomycota & Basidiomycota
By Michael Alan Prestwood
Author and Natural Philosopher
02 Feb 2026
Published 2 days ago.
Updated 2 days ago.
Fungal Great Split: Ascomycota & Basidiomycota
~425 Million years ago (+/- 25 million)
Ascomycota and Basidiomycota Split
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