Thelephoraceae

Thelephoraceae is a family of fungi in the order Boletales. The family is characterized by its basidiomycetous members, which produce basidia that bear four sterigmata. The family includes both saprobic and mycorrhizal species, with a cosmopolitan distribution. The genus Thelephora is the type genus of the family, and it is known for its distinctive, often brightly colored, fruit bodies that resemble small mushrooms. The family is further divided into several genera, including Thelephora, Phylloporus, and Xerocomus, each with its own unique characteristics and ecological roles. Thelephoraceae is an important group of fungi in various ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and plant health through their mycorrhizal associations. The taxonomy of the family is still a subject of ongoing research, with new species and genera continually being discovered and described.