Catalogue of the lichen family Porinaceae

Three families of pyrenocarpous lichens—Porinaceae, Pyrenulaceae, and Verrucariaceae—comprise at least 10% of all lichenized fungi, significantly influencing lichen communities across various substrates and climates. The Pyrenulaceae family, with over 429 species in 16 genera, thrives in subtropical and tropical regions but is less diverse in cool-temperate and boreal areas. In contrast, most Verrucariaceae (711 species in 37 genera) are found on rocks in temperate and cooler climates, as well as in hot-arid conditions, with diversity decreasing at low latitudes. The Porinaceae family includes three genera—Polycornum, Porina, and Trichothelium—totaling 394 species and infra-specific taxa, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions across 150 countries and territories. This work details accepted species, their synonyms, and a country-based distribution for each, along with relevant literature. It lists over 700 synonyms, excluded taxa, and doubtful species likely belonging to other families. Distribution maps illustrate patterns of known and potential diversity. Additionally, new combinations and nomenclatural changes are presented, including the validation of Porina peregrina and the replacement of an illegitimate name.