Origin and development of ascogenous hyphae and pseudoparaphyses in Sporormia australis

Abstract

Ascogenous hyphae and pseudoparaphyses of Sporormia australis Speg. originate independently at opposite poles in the locule of the ascocarp. Both arise from apparently undifferentiated pseudoparenchymatous cells. The pseudoparaphyses grow downward into the locule until they reach the basal area. At this level they intermingle with the ascogenous hyphae which grow out from the base of the locule. Although the two elements are closely associated, at no time do they exhibit cytoplasmic continuity.