Orbidellus

Orbidellus is a genus of fungi in the family Sclerodermataceae. These fungi are characterized by their roughly spherical or subglobose fruiting bodies, known as basidiocarps, which are typically tough and leathery. The outer layer of the fruiting body, the peridium, is often rough or spiny, contributing to the genus name, which derives from Latin words meaning "orb" and "spiny." Inside, the gleba, where the spores are produced, is initially fleshy and often brightly colored, but it dries and breaks down into a powdery mass of spores as the fruiting body matures.

Species of Orbidellus are saprobic, meaning they obtain nutrients from dead organic matter, and are often found in terrestrial environments, particularly in forest soils. They are known to form ectomycorrhizal associations with trees, contributing to nutrient uptake for their host plants. The distribution of Orbidellus species is generally widespread, with some found in temperate and tropical regions across various continents. Identification of Orbidellus species often relies on microscopic features of their spores and basidiocarps, as well as their ecological habitat. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the phylogenetic relationships and ecological roles of this genus within the fungal kingdom.