Pterulaceae

Pterulaceae is a family of basidiomycete fungi in the class Agaricomycetes, order Cantharellales. The family contains several clavarioid genera, notably Pterula (the type genus), Deflexula, and Pterulicium. Members produce small, delicate fruit bodies that are typically slender, branched, and coral-like or club-shaped, often less than a few centimeters tall. The surfaces are usually smooth or pruinose, and colors range from white to pale tan. The spore print is white, and basidia produce four basidiospores.

Habitat and ecology: Pterulaceae species are saprotrophic, growing on decaying wood, bark, or leaf litter in forests. They are commonly found on fallen branches and mossy logs in both temperate and tropical regions. They contribute to wood decay and nutrient cycling.

Taxonomy and phylogeny: The family name derives from the genus Pterula, the type genus. Morphological similarity to coral fungi initially led to placement in Clavariaceae, but molecular phylogenetic analyses place Pterulaceae as a distinct lineage within Cantharellales. The delineation of genera has varied with studies, and some genera have been added or redefined as new data emerge.

Distribution: Worldwide, with higher diversity in tropical regions and temperate woodlands.