Physalacriaceae

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The Physalacriaceae is a family of fungi in the order Agaricales. This family includes several genera of mushrooms, some of which are notable for their unique morphological characteristics and ecological roles. Members of the Physalacriaceae family are found in various habitats around the world, often associated with decaying wood or other organic matter.

Taxonomy

The family Physalacriaceae was first described by mycologist Rolf Singer in 1986. It was established to accommodate a group of fungi that did not fit well into other families within the Agaricales. The type genus of the family is Physalacria.

Genera

The Physalacriaceae family includes several genera, some of which are:

• Physalacria
• Armillaria
• Cylindrobasidium
• Flammulina
• Gloiocephala
• Oudemansiella

Morphology

Members of the Physalacriaceae family exhibit a wide range of morphological features. Common characteristics include:

• **Cap**: The cap can vary from convex to flat, often with a smooth or slightly scaly surface.
• **Gills**: The gills are typically adnate to adnexed, and can be white to various shades of brown.
• **Stipe**: The stipe (stem) is usually central and can be smooth or fibrous.
• **Spores**: Spores are generally white to cream-colored and can be smooth or ornamented.

Ecology

Physalacriaceae fungi are primarily saprotrophic, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter. Some species, such as those in the genus Armillaria, are also known to be pathogenic and can cause root rot in trees and other plants. These fungi play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within their ecosystems.

Notable Species

• Armillaria mellea: Commonly known as the honey fungus, this species is a well-known plant pathogen.
• Flammulina velutipes: Known as the enoki mushroom, it is widely cultivated for culinary use.

Related Pages

• Agaricales
• Mycology
• Fungal taxonomy
• Saprotroph
• Plant pathology