centriporus

Centriporus is a genus of wood-decay fungi in the order Polyporales. Species in this genus form small to medium-sized basidiocarps that are bracket- or shelf-like, attached to the substrate by a broad rind. The upper surface is often smooth to slightly zonate and the underside bears a compact pore surface with small, regular pores. Microscopically, basidiospores are typically hyaline and ellipsoid.

Ecology and distribution: Centriporus species are saprotrophs, contributing to the decomposition of dead wood in forests. They are most commonly found on hardwoods and conifers in temperate regions, and occur in numerous parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.

Taxonomy: The genus has undergone revisions as molecular data clarified relationships within Polyporales. Some species formerly placed in Centriporus have been moved to related genera; conversely, new species have been added as collections are studied. The taxonomy of the genus remains subject to change as sequencing becomes more widespread.

Species: The genus comprises several described species, though exact numbers vary with taxonomic revisions and unconfirmed records in herbarium collections. As with many wood-decay fungi, new species may be described and existing names may be synonymized over time.

References: MycoBank, Index Fungorum; major monographs on Polyporales.