Niaceae

Niaceae is an obsolete taxonomic family of fungi, primarily encompassing species now classified within the Agaricales order. This grouping was used historically to categorize fungi sharing certain morphological characteristics, especially small, often brightly colored fruit bodies and a saprophytic lifestyle on decaying plant matter. The circumscription of Niaceae varied among different mycologists and classification systems.

Key characteristics attributed to Niaceae when the family was recognized included:

• Small size: Members were typically small to very small, often delicate fungi.
• Bright coloration: Many species displayed vibrant colors such as orange, yellow, or red.
• Saprophytic nature: They primarily obtained nutrients from decaying organic material.
• Simple basidiocarps: The fruit bodies were generally simple in structure.
• Habitat: Frequently found on decaying wood, leaves, and other plant debris.

Modern phylogenetic analyses, based on molecular data, have demonstrated that the fungi formerly included within Niaceae are not a monophyletic group. Consequently, the name Niaceae is no longer recognized in current fungal classifications. The genera previously assigned to Niaceae have been re-assigned to various families within the Agaricales and other orders, reflecting their true evolutionary relationships as revealed by DNA sequencing. Some genera previously considered part of Niaceae may now be found in families like Marasmiaceae or Cyphellaceae.