STUDIES IN MICROBIC HEREDITY VI. THE INFECTIVE AND TAXONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF A NEWLY DESCRIBED ASCOSPORE STAGE FOR THE FUNGI OF BLASTOMYCOSIS

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Abstract
Evidence is produced of the formation of 4-celled asci with Types I and II of the parasites of blastomycosis as described by Ricketts. According to mycologists, this perfect stage represents a form of endosporulation not definitely observed before. In the author''s experience this phase of the culture''s development appears exclusively in the so-called secondary colonies, although all varieties of secondary colonies do not contain them. Associated with the asci are other forms of special viability, such as the "dauerzellen" and oidia, which may or may not be plg-mented. The probable occurrence of asci and related special growth forms in the tissues of the host offers plausible explanation for recrudescences of the disease after apparent cure. Demonstration of ascus formation in the cultures suggests allocation of these organisms among the Ascomycetes (Endomyces) rather than with the oidia of Ricketts or the cryptococci of Vuillemin.