Mesophelliaceae

Mesophelliaceae is a family of fungi in the order Boletales. This family was first described in 1958 by mycologist Walter Jülich. Fungi in this family are typically characterized by their gasteroid or puffball-like fruiting bodies, meaning the spores are produced internally and released passively. The basidia, which are the spore-bearing cells, are usually septate and borne on hymenial surfaces that may be convoluted or labyrinthine within the fruiting body.

The distribution of Mesophelliaceae is primarily in temperate and subtropical regions. Members of this family are often mycorrhizal, forming symbiotic associations with the roots of various trees. However, some species may exhibit saprobic tendencies, decomposing organic matter in the soil. The fruiting bodies are generally small to medium-sized and can be found growing on the ground, often partially or fully submerged in leaf litter or soil.

Current taxonomic understanding recognizes a limited number of genera within Mesophelliaceae, with significant research ongoing to clarify species relationships and delimitations. Examples of genera sometimes placed within this family include Mesophellia and Radiigera, though phylogenetic studies continue to refine these classifications. The study of Mesophelliaceae contributes to our understanding of the diversity and evolution of the Boletales, particularly within the gasteroid lineages. Their ecological roles, especially in forest ecosystems, are areas of ongoing investigation.