Cell wall structures of Epicoccum nigrum (Hyphomycetes)

Abstract

Two structurally distinct types of secondary wall layers are present in older hyphae in addition to the primary wall. A coarsely fibrous outer wall layer often becomes quite massive and frequently fuses with the outer wall layers of adjacent cells in the formation of hyphal strands. The uneven deposition of this outer layer often produces large verrucosities. The inner secondary wall layer is relatively electron transparent and contains a reticulum of electron-dense lines. The interface of the inner secondary wall with the cytoplasm is often very irregular, and sections of the plasma membrane are frequently overlain by wall material. The outer secondary wall of conidia is composed of an electron-dense material different from that of the outer wall of hyphae. Cells in the multicellular conidia tend to be polyhedral in shape with either very thick primary walls or thin primary walls having a thick inner wall deposit.