The Functions of the Microspores of Gelasinospora calospora var. autosteira

Abstract
G. calospora var. autosteira is a heterothallic ascomycete. Most strains are "hermaphroditic" in that they bear both protoperithecia and micro-spores. When suspensions of microspores are placed in contact with protoperithecia of opposite mating type, asci and ascospores are developed. This suggests that microspores may function as spermatia. A number of tests were made which largely ruled out hyphal fusion and nuclear migration as normal fertilization systems in this fungus. It was concluded that microspore-trichogyne or hypha-trichogyne probably represented the normal fertilization mechanism. Extensive tests were made of the ability of microspores to function as micro-conidia. These tests were negative on solid media and poorly, but consistently, positive on liquid media. It was concluded that microspores under appropriate conditions, may function as micro-conidia.

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