Karystion

Karystion is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Pyronemataceae. These fungi are typically found in soil and are often associated with decaying organic matter. The genus was first described by French mycologist Jean-Louis L. P. G. Boudier in 1907. Species within Karystion are characterized by their small, cup-shaped to saucer-shaped ascocarps, which are usually sessile or borne on short stalks. The asci are typically cylindrical and contain eight ascospores, which are often elliptical or ovoid. The paraphyses, sterile filaments found among the asci, are usually filiform and septate.

The distribution of Karystion species is generally widespread, occurring in various temperate and subtropical regions across the globe. They are saprobic, playing a role in the decomposition of plant material. Identification of Karystion species often relies on microscopic features such as spore size, shape, and ornamentation, as well as the morphology of the ascocarp and paraphyses. While not extensively studied for their economic importance, some species may be of interest in ecological studies related to soil health and nutrient cycling. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the diversity and ecological roles of fungi within the Karystion genus.