Cystofilobasidium

Cystofilobasidium is a genus of fungi belonging to the Basidiomycota. These fungi are characterized by the presence of cystidia, which are sterile cells found within the hymenium. The basidia, which produce spores, are typically club-shaped and bear four basidiospores. The genus was first described by P.M. Kirk in 1984.

Species within Cystofilobasidium are often found growing on wood, and some have been reported to cause decay. They are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients from dead organic matter. The teleomorphic stages of these fungi produce basidiocarps, which are the fruiting bodies where spore production occurs. The exact ecological role and distribution of Cystofilobasidium species are still subjects of ongoing research.

Morphologically, Cystofilobasidium species can be identified by a combination of features including their microscopic characteristics, such as the shape and size of basidia, basidiospores, and cystidia, as well as their macroscopic appearance when present. Molecular phylogenetic studies are increasingly used to confirm the placement and relationships of these fungi within the broader fungal kingdom. Currently, the genus contains a limited number of described species, and further exploration may reveal more diversity.