ABSTRACT During a fungi survey in the brazilian Atlantic Forest in São Paulo, São Paulo State, Brazil, polypores growing on decaying wood were collected and fragments of the basidiomata were used to obtain isolates in pure culture. A total of 37 isolates were obtained and 23 species were identified. Cultural features of Bjerkandera atroalba, Henningsia brasiliensis, Rigidoporus undatus, and Steccherinum reniforme were described for the first time. A total of 31 isolates were evaluated in terms of their ability to oxidize the Remazol brilliant blue R dye (RBBR) and guaiacol. The results of these tests indicate that all isolated species were associated with white rot in the wood. Laccase and peroxidase activities were detected by drop tests using solutions of α-naphthol and pyrogallol. Production of cellulases and siderophores was detected with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and chrome azurol S (CAS) agar, respectively.