Ascobolus

Ascobolus is the type genus of the family Ascobolaceae, widely recognized for its coprophilous (dung-loving) habit. Established by Persoon in 1792, the genus is characterized by its small, cup-shaped apothecia which are often greenish or yellowish when young, becoming dotted with purple or brown at maturity due to the protruding tips of ripe asci. It is a cosmopolitan genus with over 60 accepted species found on all continents.