Surface-active spore slimes

Abstract

Twenty-four species of fungi with slimy spore masses were examined for surface activity of the slime. The species fell into four categories: (1) slime highly surface-active and spores dispersed primarily at the air-water interface; (2) slime rapidly spreading in the bulk phase and the spores spread throughout; (3) slime weakly spreading or insoluble in water; (4) slime insoluble in water, but showing some activity in oil or lactophenol solution. The significance of this activity with respect to spore dispersal is discussed.