Portteia

Portteia is a genus of fungi belonging to the family Auriculariaceae. This genus was first described in 2012 by molecular phylogenetic studies which revealed that several species previously classified under other genera, such as Auricularia, actually formed a distinct evolutionary lineage. The name "Portteia" is derived from the Czech mycologist Vladimír V. Port, who was instrumental in their study.

Species within the genus Portteia are typically wood-decaying fungi. They are characterized by their jelly-like or rubbery fruiting bodies, which often grow on dead or decaying wood. While some species might bear superficial resemblance to other jelly fungi, genetic analysis has confirmed their unique position within the fungal kingdom. The exact distribution and ecological roles of all Portteia species are still areas of ongoing research. Mycologists continue to explore their genetic diversity and identify new species. Further studies aim to clarify their precise taxonomic relationships and understand their contributions to forest ecosystems.