Development and morphology of Lysurus cruciatus—an addition to the Indian mycobiota

Abstract

Lysurus cruciatus (Phallomycetidae, Phallaceae) produces a basidiome with a long receptacle terminating in conical arms that branch initially and interconnect at their tips to support gleba on lateral surfaces. Its development from primordia to mature basidiome has been microscopically examined. Fructification begins as a small protuberance that differentiates into a series of layers and with gelatinization develops into an egg. The matured fruitbody stands up with an expanded receptacle. Lysurus cruciatus is a new record for the India mycobiota.