E. dendroides E. schmidtii Erinacellus is a genus of lichen-forming fungi of uncertain familial placement in the order Peltigerales.

These lichens are characterised by their dense, cushion-like growths composed of erect, thread-like branches, which resemble miniature hedgehogs.

These lichens typically grow in moist environments, such as coastal areas and tropical regions, and can be found on both rocks and tree bark.

Some analyses have placed it within the suborder Peltigerineae, while others suggest a sister relationship to the family Koerberiaceae, albeit with low statistical support.

Due to this ambiguity, Erinacellus is currently considered Peltigerales incertae sedis, indicating its precise taxonomic placement is yet to be definitively determined.

The thallus of Erinacellus species is characterised by a dense cushion of erect, thread-like branches, giving it a distinctive appearance.

The presence of E. dendroides in blanket bogs and on shore pines in coastal areas suggests an affinity for humid, possibly cool climates.

However, the occurrence of E. schmidtii in tropical regions indicates that the genus can also tolerate warmer conditions, provided there is sufficient moisture.

The genus seems to be adaptable in terms of substrate, with records of growth on both rock (as noted for the original Spilonema dendroides specimen from New Zealand) and tree bark (as observed in Alaska).