Porotheleum

Porotheleum is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Steccherinaceae. These fungi are characterized by their porous hymenium, meaning the spore-bearing surface is made up of many small pores rather than gills or teeth. The genus was first described by German mycologist Otto Kuntze in 1898. Species within Porotheleum are typically small, tough, and woody or leathery in texture. They are often found growing on decaying wood, playing a role in the decomposition of forest material. The fruiting bodies can vary in shape, sometimes appearing as resupinate (crust-like) structures, while others may develop small bracket-like or shelf-like forms. The pore surface is usually white, cream, or pale brown. Microscopic examination reveals details about the spores and hyphal structure, which are important for accurate identification and classification within the fungal kingdom. While not widely known for culinary use, their ecological importance in nutrient cycling is significant. Research on Porotheleum species continues to refine our understanding of fungal biodiversity and their ecological roles.