Catherinus

Catherinus is a genus of fungi in the family Boletaceae. It is characterized by the production of basidiomata that are fleshy and often brightly colored. The genus was first described in 1888 by the Italian mycologist Giacomo Saccardo. Catherinus species are typically found in temperate and tropical regions, often growing in association with trees.

The morphology of Catherinus species can vary, but they generally possess a distinct cap, stem, and hymenium. The cap is often convex to plane and may be smooth or have a slightly scaly surface. Its color can range from yellow to brown or red. The stem is usually cylindrical and firm, sometimes featuring a reticulate pattern. The hymenium, located on the underside of the cap, is typically composed of pores or tubes. Spores are usually ellipsoid and smooth, and their color in mass can vary depending on the species.

Reproduction in Catherinus occurs through the formation of spores. These are dispersed by wind or water and, under suitable environmental conditions, germinate to form new mycelial colonies. The ecological role of Catherinus is not fully understood, but like other Boletaceae, some species may form mycorrhizal associations with trees, contributing to nutrient exchange in forest ecosystems. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the diversity and ecological significance of this genus.