Rhizoscyphus

Rhizoscyphus is a genus of fungi in the family Hyaloscyphaceae, within the order Helotiales of the class Leotiomycetes in the phylum Ascomycota. The genus includes several species, the most notable being Rhizoscyphus ericae, known for forming ericoid mycorrhizas with plants in the family Ericaceae. In ericoid mycorrhizas, hyphae colonize the roots of host plants, penetrating epidermal and cortical cells and forming intracellular hyphal coils that assist the plant in acquiring nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from organic sources in acidic, nutrient-poor soils.

Ecology and distribution: Rhizoscyphus species are commonly associated with ericaceous vegetation in heathlands, boreal forests, and peatlands, often in acidic environments where Ericaceae are prevalent. While some species produce small, inconspicuous apothecia on decaying plant material, many ecologically significant members of the genus are primarily known for their root-associated symbioses rather than above-ground fruiting bodies. The ecological role of Rhizoscyphus ericae and related taxa is central to discussions of nutrient cycling and plant performance in nutrient-poor soils.

Taxonomy and recognition: The placement of Rhizoscyphus within Helotiales has been clarified through molecular data, leading to revisions in the understanding of related taxa. Rhizoscyphus ericae remains the most extensively studied member, serving as a model for ericoid plant–fungus interactions and the nutrient exchange processes involved in these associations.