Ceriporiaceae

Ceriporiaceae is a family of fungi in the order Polyporales, characterized by their polypore fruiting bodies. These fungi are typically found on dead wood, where they play a crucial role in the decomposition process. The family includes several genera, with Ceriporiopsis being one of the most well-known. Ceriporiopsis subvermispora, for instance, is a common species found in temperate regions, producing small, brownish pores on its fruiting body.

The fruiting bodies of Ceriporiaceae are typically small to medium-sized, with a cap that is initially convex before flattening out. The pores are often circular to angular, and the tubes beneath them are typically short. The hymenium, the layer of tissue that produces spores, is typically thin and smooth.

The spores of Ceriporiaceae are typically smooth, ellipsoid to subglobose, and measure around 5-7 by 3-4 micrometers. They are produced in clusters of four, known as tetraspores.

Ceriporiaceae is a diverse family, with species found in various habitats around the world. They are often used in ecological studies to monitor the health of forests and woodlands. However, some species are also known to cause decay in living trees, particularly in stressed or weakened individuals.