Prevalence of Red List DD Species Limits the Application of the EDGE Approach for Fungi

ABSTRACT Despite their importance, fungi remain underrepresented in global conservation priorities and largely absent from indicators established for monitoring progress within the Global Biodiversity Framework. One indicator, the Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) Index, tracks the conservation status of evolutionarily distinct species, but no EDGE list exists for fungi. To help address this gap, we assessed the extinction risk of 94 fungal species in monotypic genera, expected to have high evolutionary distinctiveness. Using IUCN Red List Criteria, most species were categorized as Data Deficient (56), 28 as Least Concern, with only nine assigned to threatened or near threatened categories, and one Not Evaluated. The prevalent data deficiency reflects severe knowledge gaps in fungal distribution, ecology, and taxonomy that impede evidence‐based policy‐making. We discuss challenges constraining fungal Red Listing and emphasize how basic mycological research is crucial to capture phylogenetic diversity in conservation priorities and ensure adequate representation of fungi in biodiversity policy and conservation.