Erythricium

Erythricium is a genus of fungi in the family Peniophoraceae. The genus was circumscribed in 1950 by Marinus Marinus. Species in Erythricium are characterized by their resupinate, effused, and corticoid basidiocarps, which are typically brittle. The hymenium is smooth to tuberculate. The cystidia are usually absent or rare and often monomitic. The hyphal system is monomitic. The spores are smooth, hyaline, and typically ellipsoid.

Erythricium species are saprobic, growing on dead wood. They are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. The taxonomic placement of Erythricium has been subject to some debate, but molecular phylogenetic studies have generally supported its placement within the Peniophoraceae.

Currently, there are only a few recognized species within the genus Erythricium. One notable species is Erythricium laetum, which is characterized by its bright orange-red basidiocarps. Other species may exhibit different colors and growth habits. The study of Erythricium contributes to our understanding of fungal diversity and the ecological roles of wood-decaying fungi. Further research is ongoing to clarify the phylogenetic relationships and species boundaries within this genus.