Genus Helotium (Noun)
Meaning
Type genus of the Helotiaceae.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Helotium is a type genus of the Helotiaceae family and comprises numerous fungal species that are typically found on decaying wood or plant material.
- The genus Helotium was first described by the Swedish botanist Elias Magnus Fries in 1822, thus recognizing it as the type genus of the Helotiaceae.
- Helotium species are characterized by their small to medium-sized apothecia that usually grow on the surface of their host substrates, which typically belong to the Helotiaceae.
- Many species within the genus Helotium produce ascospores with various shapes, from elliptical to cylindrical, allowing them to disperse onto potential hosts.
- Studies on certain species within the genus Helotium suggest their role as decomposers in various ecosystems.