Ultrastructural and cytological observations of apothecial tissues of Geopyxis carbonaria (Pezizales, Ascomycetes)

Abstract

Cytological observations are made on apothecial tissues of Geopyxis carbonaria, using transmission electron microscopy. Characteristic features of both the medullary and ectal excipula are examined. Changes in ascus apex and wall structures are examined during ascus ontogeny, especially in relation to operculum position and structure. Ultrastructure of septum configuration is observed and compared in the excipulum, ascogenous hyphae, paraphyses, and at the base of young asci. Ascosporogenesis is observed from the ascus mother cell stage and initial spore delimitation until secondary wall formation. The cytological and ultrastructural observations on this species are discussed in relation to their possible taxonomic or phylogenetic value. Key words: ascosporogenesis, Discomycetes, ascospore ultrastructure, septal ultrastructure, cytochemistry.