[1][2] Sporodophoron is uniquely characterised by the formation of fruiting structures called sporodochia, which are open conidiomata in the form of tufts of conidiophores on the thallus.
Collectively, the genus has a widespread geographical distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, with species found in distinct habitats in North America, Europe, Japan, and the Russian Far East.
Its name was inspired by its prominent sporodochia, which are clusters of spores that resemble the anamorph, or asexual reproductive stage, of the distantly related genus, Tylophoron.
[3] Sporodophoron shares many characteristics with the genus Inoderma, but a major distinguishing feature is the formation of sporodochia in place of pycnidia.
A species known as Sporodochiolichen flavus, which was previously considered a part of Tylophoron, shows some similarities with Sporodophoron, but it also has significant differences in how its conidia are formed.
[3] Inoderma and Sporodophoron share a key characteristic – a distinct K+ (yellow) spot reaction in the thallus, sporodochia, and the pruina (a powdery coating) on conidiomata and apothecia.
[3] The genus Sporodophoron has a widespread geographical distribution, with species found in distinct habitats in North America, Europe, Japan, and the Russian Far East.
Sporodophoron americanum has a relatively limited geographical presence, with confirmed sightings in the easternmost regions of Tennessee and North Carolina, United States.
Contrastingly, Sporodophoron cretaceum prefers the dry sides of aged trees situated along old waysides, and within parkland and woodland environments.