funnelcup

Funnelcup refers to a broad category of fungi characterized by their fruiting bodies that resemble a cup or funnel. This morphological trait is not indicative of a specific taxonomic classification but rather a convergent evolutionary outcome among various fungal lineages. Fungi within the funnelcup group can belong to different phyla, including Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Their habitats are diverse, ranging from decaying wood and soil to leaf litter and dung.

The size and color of funnelcups vary greatly. Some species are minute, while others can reach several centimeters in diameter. Colors can span from translucent whites and pale yellows to vibrant oranges and deep browns. The inner surface of the cup, which bears the spores, is typically smooth, but in some species, it may exhibit folds or wrinkles. Reproduction occurs through the production of spores, which are released from the hymenium lining the inner surface.

Many species of funnelcup fungi are saprophytic, playing an important role in nutrient cycling by decomposing organic matter. Some may also form mycorrhizal associations with plants, benefiting from the plant's photosynthetic products while aiding in nutrient uptake. While some funnelcups are edible and sought after by foragers, many others are inedible or even poisonous. Identification is crucial and often requires microscopic examination of spores and other features. There is no single "funnelcup" species, but rather a descriptive term applied to a morphological form found across numerous genera.