The order Patellariales consists of a group of true fungi commonly referred to as patella or cup fungi, classified within the phylum Ascomycota. Members of this order are primarily saprophytic, meaning they decompose dead organic matter, and are often found on soil, decaying wood, or plant debris. They are characterized by their disc- or cup-shaped fruiting bodies (apothecia), which produce sexual spores called ascospores within sac-like structures called asci. Patellariales species play an important role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems by breaking down complex organic compounds. Many are small and inconspicuous, but some have distinctive, often brightly colored apothecia that are visible on forest floors.