Aniskos

Aniskos is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Psathyrellaceae. This genus was first described in 1949 by mycologist Henry John O'Neill. Species within the Aniskos genus are typically found growing on decaying wood, often in humid or damp environments. They are characterized by their small to medium-sized fruiting bodies, which are usually ephemeral. The caps of Aniskos mushrooms are often convex to broadly convex and can be fragile. The gills are typically attached to the stem and can be whitish to brownish. The stems are generally slender and can be hollow or solid. Spore prints are usually dark brown to black. The exact taxonomic placement of Aniskos has been subject to revision with advancements in molecular phylogenetic studies. While some classifications have placed it within other related genera, the name Aniskos is still recognized for certain species. Further research continues to clarify the relationships between Aniskos and other genera within the Psathyrellaceae family. The ecological role of Aniskos fungi is primarily that of decomposers, contributing to nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.