[1] The genus was circumscribed in 1981 by the lichenologists Martha Allen Sherwood, David L. Hawksworth, and Brian J. Coppins, with Skyttea nitschkei assigned as the type species.

The fungus produces tiny, dark-coloured reproductive structures (ascocarps) that are initially embedded within the host lichen's tissue before emerging to the surface.

The outer wall (excipulum) of the reproductive structure can range from dark brown to olive green in colour and is made up of small, tightly packed cells.

This suggests Skyttea has a parasitic relationship with its hosts that doesn't severely impact the lichen's health (parasymbiotic).

[2] Species within the genus are most commonly found in temperate regions with oceanic climates, particularly in areas with long-established forests.