Ecology and morphological characterization of the genus Phellinus sensu-lato (Basidiomycetes, Hymenochaetaceae) in Burkina Faso

Phellinus sensu lato is a genus of polypores that are morphologically, biologically and phylogenetically highly diverse. This genus is composed of sessile and lignicolous species. Species belonging to this genus are found in all regions of the world where they decompose wood or live as tree parasites. In Burkina Faso, few studies have been conducted on this taxonomic group. Thus, these collections were carried out respectively in the classified forest of Kou (Bobo Dioulasso) and the Tin landscape (Orodara). These two sites have forest formations that provide a biotope favourable to the development of polypores. Data collection was carried out randomly along the 200 to 300 meter long transects. Basidiomes were collected from the trunk, branches or roots of forest trees using a machete. The geographic coordinates as well as the morphological characteristics of each sample were carefully noted in the field. Anatomo-morphological and ecological studies permitted to identify three (03) species. They are Phellinus cf. igniarius, Phellinus cf. leavigatus and Phellinus cf. robustus. All these species are perennial, tough and have a woody consistency. These species were collected for the first time on Parkia biglobosa, and Anogeissus leiocarpus in Burkina Faso.    Key words: Phellinus, polypores, ecology, morphology, Burkina Faso.