A higher-rank classification for rust fungi, with notes on genera.

The rust fungi () with 7000+ species comprise one of the largest orders of , and one for which taxonomy at all ranks remains problematic. Here we provide a taxonomic framework, based on 16 years of sampling that includes . 80 % of accepted genera including type species wherever possible, and three DNA loci used to resolve the deeper nodes of the rust fungus tree of life. are comprised of seven suborders - , , , ., and - and 18 families - ., , , ., & ., , , , , , ., & ., , & ., and . The new genera (for and ) (for ), (for ), and (for and ) are proposed. Twenty-one new combinations and one new name are introduced for: , , , and Higher ranks are newly defined with consideration of morphology, host range and life cycle. Finally, we discuss the evolutionary and diversification trends within . Aime MC, McTaggart AR (2020). A higher-rank classification for rust fungi, with notes on genera. 21-47. doi: 10.3114/fuse.2021.07.02.