The Subdivision Basidiomycotina, also known as the Basidiomycetes, is a diverse group of fungi that includes many commonly known species such as mushrooms, puffballs, and bracket fungi. Synonyms for this taxonomic group include Homobasidiomycetes, Hymenomycetes, and Basidiomycota. These fungi are characterized by their production of spores on specialized structures called basidia, their hyphal structure, and their ability to form complex fruiting bodies. Basidiomycetes are important decomposers and mycorrhizal associates in many ecosystems, and in addition to their ecological importance, some species are used for food, medicine, and industrial applications.