Septal pore complex morphology in the Agaricomycotina ( Basidiomycota) with emphasis on the Cantharellales and Hymenochaetales (original) (raw)

2009, Mycological Research

The ultrastructure of septa and septum-associated septal pore caps are important taxonomic markers in the Agaricomycotina (Basidiomycota, Fungi). The septal pore caps covering the typical basidiomycetous dolipore septum are distinguished into three main morphotypes: vesicular, imperforate, and perforate. Until recently, the septal pore cap-type reflected the higher-order relationships within the Agaricomycotina. However, the new classification of Fungi resulted in many changes including addition of new orders. Therefore, the septal pore cap ultrastructure of more than 350 species as reported in literature was related to this new classification. In addition, the septal pore cap ultrastructure of Rickenella fibula and Cantharellus formosus was examined by transmission electron microscopy. Both fungi were shown to have dolipore septa associated with perforate septal pore caps. These results combined with data from the literature show that the septal pore cap type within orders of the Agaricomycotina is generally monomorphic, except for the Cantharellales and Hymenochaetales.