The genus was circumscribed by Eduard Eidam in 1883,[1] while the family was circumscribed by Adolf Engler and E. Gilg in 1924.
[2] Eremascus is thought to be a basal fungus, from which ascomycetous yeasts formed.
[3] Taxa have a widespread distribution, and grow saprobically, especially on substrates with low water content.
[4] Species of Eremascus produce no arthrospores or conidia.
There are generally eight spores produced in each ascus.