Part XI—The Genus Aleurodiscus

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 84, 1956-57, Page 237

Part XI—The Genus Aleurodiscus Abstract Aleurodiscus is represented in New Zealand by seventeen species, of which six are desbed as new. A diagnostic key is given, together with detailed descriptions of each, accompanied by notes on distribution, host range and comparative features. All are illustrated by line drawings of transverse sections and spores, and (save A. coronatus) with photographs of macrofeatures. Those previously named are A. acerinus (Pers.) H. & L., A. aurantius (Pers.) Schroet, A. berggrent (Cke.) G. H. Cunn., A. botryosus Burt, A. candidus (Schw.) Burt, A. mirabilis (B. & C.) Hoehn, A. nivosus (B. & C.) H. & L., A. ochraceo-flavus Lloyd, A. sparsus (Berk.) H. & L., and A. zealandicus (Cke. & Phil.) G. H. Cunn. Three, A. berggreni, A. ochraceo-flavus and A. zealandicus are endemic; A. sparsus is an Australian species probably introduced with its host; A. candidus and A. nivosus occur in North America and West Indies; A. botryosus in North America and France; A. aurantius in Europe and Great Britain; A. acerinus in Europe, Great Britain, North America and South Africa; and A. mirabilis has a wide distribution through tropical and subtropical regions. Introduction Of the genera placed under the Thelephoraceae, Aleurodiscus is the most difficult to define, since generic concepts have been altered by different workers to include species with diverse microfeatures. At first the genus was limited to species with cupulate or pezizoid fructifications and large basidia, features which equally well could be applied to some species of Cytidia. Later authors added species possessing various ancillary organs, such as pseudophyses, acanthophyses or dendrophyses; others again treated under the genus species with large or small basidia together with one or more of these organs, and fructifications either pezizoid, disciform or resupinate and effused. Aleurodiscus as now defined, may contain species with cupulate, pezizoid or disciform fructifications bearing large or small basidia, pseudophyses, acantho-

physes and gloeocystidia; or fructifications may be resupinate and effused and bear large basidia with as ancillary organs acanthophyses or dendrophyses, gloeocystidia being present in some species, absent from others. Structural details of the hymenophore and of various types of ancillary organs are discussed below. Hymenophore. Plants may be arranged under several sections according to macrofeatures, though these are not always easy to delimit, save in the early growth stages. Four types may be recognised among species present in this region—pezizoid, pulvinate, disciform and resupinate. Pezizoid fructifications are present in A. mirabilis, A. ochraceo-flavus and A. zealandicus. They are small, cupulate or pateriform, attached by a narrow base, with margins free and upturned, and the hymenial surface may be slightly concave or plane. (Pl. 25, Fig. 1.) Pulvinate fructifications are present in A. berggreni and A. candidus Each is attached by a broad base with margins free and almost vertical, and the hymenial surface is convex. Those of A. berggreni later coalesce in small groups of 4–6, the surface becomes irregular, margins crenate, and the undersurface discoloured (Pl. 25, Fig. 4). Disciform or pateriform fructifications are present in A. parmuliformis, A. patellaeformis, A. pateriformis and A. limonisporus. They arise as small colonies with orbicular outline, the context lying loosely upon the substratum save for a small basal attachment, with margins upturned save in A. parmuliformis, where it remains. plane Colonies shortly coalesce to form broad disciform areas which may extend for several centimetres. The form of each colony may be then indicated by a ridge, line of different colour, or crevice, and each maintains its point of attachment. Plants of A. patellaeformis and A. pateriformis are saucer-shaped with upturned margins and concave hymenial surfaces (Pl. 24, Figs. 1, 2). A limonisporus at first develops small pateriform colonies; but colonies soon coalesce to form broad, effused areas with only the periphery upturned. Each colony is then indicated by raised lines at points of fusion so that the surface appears to be coarsely reticulated (Pl. 24, Fig. 4). In A. parmuliformis pilei remain flattened and scutellate, margins remaining plane and, where coalesced junctions are indicated by coloured lines or crevices. Species of this group are sometimes difficult to separate from those with cupulate pilei on the one hand, or resupinate fructifications on the other. Resupinate effused fructifications are characteristic of A. aberrans, A. aurantius, A. botryosus, A. coralloides, A. coronatus, A. nivosus and A. sparsus. They simulate species of Corticium or Peniophora in their macrofeatures, though differing appreciably in microfeatures. All are white or tinted cream, and for the most part chalky in texture because of the masses of crystals or acanthophyses embedded in the context. Though resupinate, sections show A. coralloides and A. sparsus to be composed of very numerous minute colonies fused at the margins, each with its basal point of attachment and hyphae radiatcly arranged from it. (Text-figs. 10, 11.) In three species the tomentum covering the exterior is noteworthy. In A mirabilis and A. ochraceo-flavus it is composed of thin-walled branched hyphae bearing acuminate spines with, near the hymenial surface, cylindrical acanthophyses clothed with spines. The tomentum of A. zealandicus consists of branched context hyphae bearing only an occasional spine, and cylindrical acanthophyses clothed with spines bunched next to the hymenial layer. Context. In species with pezizoid or disciform fructifications the context is composed of parallel hyphae radiating from the basal attachment, with distal ends upturned to form the hymenium, the intermediate layer being suppressed (Text-fig. 1). Resupinate species possess both basal and intermediate layers, as in most species of Corticium (Text-fig. 9). The basal layer may be scanty or well developed, and is composed of hyphae either lying parallel with the substratum, or intertwined. The

intermediate layer is composed of mainly upright hyphae from which the hymcnium arises. Tissues are often masked by masses of crystals or acanthophyses. All species described herein possess a monomitic hyphal system. This is sometimes difficult to ascertain, since the thick-walled pedicels of some of the acanthophyses may simulate skeletal hyphae. Hyphae are hyaline, branched, septate, and walls in some species subgelatinous. Clamp connexions are present in eight of the species described, namely A. berggreni, A. coralloides, A. coronatus, A. mirabilis, A. nivosus, A. ochraceo-flavus, A. patellaeformis and A. zealandicus. Ancillary Organs Pseudophyses. Present in the disciform species A. parmuliformis, A. patellaeformis, A. pateriformis and A. limonisporus, pseudophyses are cylindrical hyphae arising in the base of the subhymenium and penetrating to the hymenial surface. They are naked, usually simple and unbranched, or occasionally bear one or two apical branchlets, of the same diameter as context hyphae, with rounded or slightly modified apices (Text-figs. 1, 2, 3, 4). In the extra-limital A. amorphus and A. disciformis they are moniliform, and in A. oakesu bear near the base a few scattered spines or digitate processes. Acanthophyses. Four types may be recognized: (1) cylindrical and covered with digitate processes or spines; (2) clavate and covered apically with digitate processes or spines, (3) coralloid; and (4) botryose. Cylindrical acanthophyses are present in the hymenium of A. mirabilis, A. ochraceo-flavus and A. zealandicus. They resemble pseudophyses in length and breadth and the position they occupy in the hymenial layer, differing in that they are clothed with digitate processes or spines (the “bottle-brush” paraphyses of Burt). Clothed throughout with processes in the two former species (Text-fig. 5), in A. zealandicus spines are confined to the upper third (Text-fig. 7). In A. mirabilis two types are present, one cylindrical and beset with digitate or spinous processes, as in A. ochraceo-flavus, a second of hyphae geniculated and bearing at intervals, often at the angles, long, often hooked, acuminate spines (Text-fig. 6). Clavate acanthophyses are present in A. aberrans and A. berggreni. In shape they simulate paraphyses and on the apical region bear numerous digitate or spinous processes which vary appreciably in shape and length (Text-figs. 8, 9). Coralloid acanthophyses are present in A. coralloides, A. coronatus and A. sparsus. They resemble pieces of coral, with short, irregular branches arising at intervals from the main stem, and the whole clothed with irregular spines (Text-figs. 10, 11, 12). Walls of those present in A. coralloides are greatly thickened, with the lumen reduced to a capillary. Botryose acanthophyses are confined to A. botryosus (Text-fig. 13). They are apically branched, branches bearing clusters of branchlets, some of which are terminally inflated, the whole resembling miniature bunches of grapes. The species is unique in that apices of branches are amyloid, staining blue when treated with Melzer's reagent. Dendrophyses. The term has been applied to ancillary organs present in the hymenial layer of A. acerinus, A. aurantius, A. candidus and A. nivosus, since they resemble somewhat similar bodies present in the context of species of Vararia. Long slender hyphac arising from the base of the hymenial layer penetrate the hymenium and at their apices produce slender branches which in turn may bear branchlets. In three species branches are sheathed in fine crystals so that their structure is difficult to ascertain unless crystals are removed (Text-figs. 14, 15, 16). In A. aurantius they are naked and somewhat scantily developed, many producing but one or two branches (Text-fig. 17). Gloeocystidia. Present in all species save A. acerinus, A. candidus, A. coralloides and A. sparsus, gloeocystidia arise in the base of the subhymenium or intermediate

layer and penetrate the hymenial layer. In most species they are long and flexuous cylindrical (Text-fig. 1). Those of A. coronatus and A. nivosus are obovate, oval, or fusiform and arise from the basal layer. In A coronatus gloeocystidia bear on their apices irregular spinous processes (Text-fig. 12); whereas in A. aurantius apices are modified into one or two globular gemmae (Text-fig. 17). Walls are unusually thick in gloeocystidia present in A. berggreni, some in the context attaining a thickness of 8μ (Text-fig. 8). Sometimes gloeocystidia are difficult to detect, or may be mistaken for developing basidia. Sections from margins of fertile plants demonstrate their presence most readily, since the contents are either coloured orange or stain deeply with aniline blue. Basidia, Paraphyses and Spores Basidia. In most species basidia are large and bear long, arcuate, subulate sterigmata. In length basidia of most species range from 60–85μ in one series to 160μ in the three pezizoid species. They may attain a diameter of 24μ, and sterigmata a length of 32μ. Basidia, small for species of the genus, are present in A. aberrans and A. berggreni, being approximately 25–30μ long, with sterigmata not exceeding 6μ in length. Paraphyses. Usually subclavatc, paraphyses resemble basidia in shape, differing in point of size, being usually narrower and shorter. In species bearing masses of acanthophyses or dendrophyses paraphyses develop from the region of the basal layer and remain buried among these ancillary organs. Spores. Those of most species are relatively large, elliptical or obovate, or oval, and approximately 12–16 × 9–12μ. Three species possess globose spores, namely A. candidus, A. nivosus and A. patellaeformis. Spores of A. mirabilis and A. zealandicus are mostly D-shaped with an apiculus at both ends. The largest spores are those of A. sparsus, for they may reach a size of 32 × 20μ. In A. aberrans and A. berggreni spores are small for species of the genus, those of the former being elliptical and 7–9 × 4–5μ, of the latter suballantoid and 9–12 × 4–4.5μ. Spores of all species save A. acerinus, A. candidus and A. nivosus are amyloid, walls staining blue when treated with Melzer's solution. In eight species spore walls are roughened bearing aculeate spines or small angular warts. Coarsely aculeate with somewhat flaccid spines in A. coralloides, A. patellaeformis, A. sparsus and A. zealandicus, they are moderately aculeate in A. mirabilis and A. ochraceo-flavus and delicately warted in A. coronatus. Markings are best seen when spores are mounted in Melzer's reagent. Substratum. Several species appear to be limited as to host range. Thus A. patellaeformis is confined to Phyllocladus alpinus; A. ochraceo-flavus to two species of Leptospermum; A. berggreni, A. coralloides and A. limonisporus to endemic species of Nothofagus; A. sparsus possibly to species of Eucalyptus; A. coronatus and A. aurantius to Leucopogon fasciculatus; and A. pateriformis to Olearia rani. As the last three are represented by single collections they may have a wider host range than is apparent. Latin descriptions of new species have been prepared by Miss Beryl Hooton, Librarian, Plant Diseases Division. 14. Aleurodiscus Rabenhorst. ex Schroeter, in Cohn, Kryptogamen-Flora Schlesiens, 3, 429, 1888. (Rabenhorst, Fungi Eur., Exsicc. Cent. XIX, No. 1824; Hedwigia, 13, 184, 1874.) Nodularia Peck, N. York State Mus., Rept. 24, 96, 1872, non Schrad., 1809. Hymenophore pileate or resupinate, annual or sometimes biennial, pezizoid, pulvinate, disciform or effused. Context composed of a basal layer of parallel hyphae either radiately arranged or parallel with the substratum, intermediate layer of upright hyphae, present in most resupinate species; hyphal system monomitic; generative hyphae hyaline, branched, septate, with or without clamp connexions Hymenial layer composed of basidia and paraphyses, associated with pseudophyses, acanthophyses, dendrophyses or gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, commonly 4-spored. Spores of various shapes, walls smooth or aculeate, hyaline, usually amyloid. Type Species. Aleurodiscus amorphus (Pers.) Rabenh. Distribution. World-wide.

Fig. 1—Aleurodiscus pateriformis. Fig. 2.—Aleurodiscus patellaeformis. Fig. 3.—Aleurodiscus parmuliformis. Fig. 4.—Aleurodiscus limonisporus. Fig. 5.—Aleurodiscus zealandicus. All × 1. Photographs by J. W. Endt.

Fig. 1.—Aleurodiscus ochraceo-flavus. Fig. 2.—Aleurodiscus mirabilis. Fig. 3.—Aleurodiscus berggrent. Early stage with scattered pilei Fig. 4.—Aleurodiscus berggreni. Mature stage with connate pilei. All × 1. Photographs by J. W. Endt.

Fig. 1.—Aleurodiscus aberrans. Fig. 2.—Aleurodiscus sparsus. Fig. 3.—Aleurodiscus coralloides. Fig. 4.—Aleurodiscus botryosus. All × 1. Photographs by J. W. Endt.

Fig. 1.—Aleurodiscus candidus. Fig. 2.—Aleurodiscus nivosus. Fig. 3.—Aleurodiscus aurantius. Fig. 4.—Aleurodiscus acerinus. All × 1. Photographs by J. W. Endt.

There would appear to be about 45 valid species, though the number is uncertain since the limits of the genus are not well defined. The name Aleurodiscus was first used by Rabenhorst in 1874 for specimens issued in his exsiccatum Fungi. Eur., Cent. XIX, No. 1824. No validating description was published with the specimens, or in his explanatory note in Hedwigia, 13, 184, 1874. Cooke (1875, 137) accepted the genus but did not describe it formally. Consequently it was not until 1888 that it was first validly published, by Schroeter in the third volume of Cohn's Kryptogamen-Flora Schlesiens. Though an older name, Cyphella Fr. has been treated as a synonym by the Nomenclatorial Committee of the International Botanical Congress. For the type species, C. digitalis (A. & S.) Fr. is now recognised as an Aleurodiscus (Donk, 1941, 159) and use of the earlier name Cyphella for species of Aleurodiscus would only lead to confusion. Pilat (1926, 207) divided the genus into five subgenera; and Ito (1929, 464) employed a like number of sections. Key to Species A. Pseudophyses present in the hymenial layer, cylindrical, naked.   Fructifications disciform with free usually upturned margins, sometimes becoming coalesced and effused. Gloeocystidia present, cylindric-flexuous. Spores aculeate, globose, 14–17μ diameter; clamp connexions present 1. A. patellaeformis G. H. Cunn. Spores smooth; clamp connexions absent. Spores obovate, elliptical or oval, 11–16 × 8–10μ   Fructifications pateriform, with free upturned margins, attached by a broad base 2. A. pateriformis G. H. Cunn.   Fructifications disciform, usually coalesced, margins plane, not upturned 3. A. parmuliformis G. H. Cunn. Spores citriform, 16–24 × 12–16μ; fructifications pateriform with upturned margins, becoming coalesced and effused when the hymenial surface becomes coarsely reticulated 4. A. limonisporus Reid B. Acanthophyses present in the hymenial layer.   a. Acanthophyses cylindrical, unbranched; spores aculeate, clamp connexions present.   Acanthophyses coated with blunt spines throughout their length. Spores obovate or elliptical, 18–20 × 12–15μ 5. A. ochraceo-flavus Lloyd Spores citriform or D-shaped, 24–28 × 14–16μ 6. A. mirabilis (B. & C.) Hoehn.   Acanthophyses covered with blunt spines on the upper third only, spores citriform or Dshaped, 24–30 × 15–20μ 7. A. zealandicus (C. & P) G. H. Cunn.   b. Acanthophyses subclavate or fusiform, bearing spines on the apical region only, spores smooth.   Fructifications pulvinate, becoming disciform; spores suballantoid, 9–12 × 4–4 5μ 8. A. berggreni (Cke.) G. H. Cunn. Fructifications resupinate and effused; spores oblong-elliptical, 7–9 × 4–5μ 9. A. aberrans G. H. Cunn.   c. Acanthophyses coralloid, branched, spores verruculose or aculeate; fructifications resupinate and effused.   Gloeocystidia absent.   Spores elliptical, 25–36 × 16–20μ; clamp connexions absent 10. A. sparsus (Berk.) H. & L.   Spores oval, 18–25 × 16–20μ; clamp connexions present 11. A. coralloides G. H. Cunn.

Gloeocystidia present, fusiform, ovate or obovate, coronate; clamp connexions present; spores elliptical or obovate 16.22 × 8–12μ 12 A coronatus G. H. Cunn.   d. Acanthophyses botryose, amyloid, spores obovate, 12–15 × 7–10μ; gloeocystidia present; fructifications resupinate; clamp connexions absent 13. A. botryosus Burt C. Dendrophyses present in the hymenial layer, crystal coated or naked, with simple stems and freely branched apices. Spores subglobose or globose, smooth. non-amyloid, dendrophyses coated with fine crystals. Fructifications pulvinate, gloeocystidia absent, clamp connexions absent 14. A. candidus (B. & C.) H. & L. Fructifications resupinate and effused, gloeocystidia present, clamp connexions present 15. A. nivosus (B. & C.) H. & L.   Spores elliptical or oval; fructifications resupinate and effused; clamp connexions absent Spores smooth, 10–14 × 6–9μ; dendrophyses crystal coated, gloeocystidia absent 16. A. acerinus (Pers.) H. & L. Spores densely and finely aculeate, 14–17 × 9–12μ; dendrophyses naked; gloeocystidia fusiform, bearing apical gemmae 17. A. aurantius (Pers.) Schroet. Text-fig. 1.—Aleurodiscus patellaeformis. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and pseudophyses, × 500, Spore × 1000. Original.

1. Aleurodiscus patellaeformis sp. nov. Pl. 24, fig. 2; Text-fig. 1. Hymenophorum membranaceum, pateriforme vel cupulatum, parva media basi adjunctum, marginibus liberis et recurvatis, 2–10 mm diam.; superficies hymenit concava, aequa, cremea vel pallide ochracea. Contextus albus, ad 0.3 mm crassus; hyphae generatoriae ad 4μ diam., hyalinae, nodulosae, parietibus 0.5μ crassis. Basidia subclavata, 64–80 × 10–14μ. Pseudophyses filiformes, ad 4μ diam. Gloeocystidia flexuoso-cylindricalia, 110–160 × 10–16μ. Sporae globosae vel subglobosae, 14–17μ diam., parietibus subtiliter aculeatis, 0.5–1μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore annual, membranous, brittle when dry, pateriform or cupulate, attached by a small central base, margins free, 2–10 mm diameter; exterior surface finely radiately villose, tan or bay-brown, margin inturned, even, bay-brown; hymenial surface concave, even, cream or pallid ochre. Context white, to 0.3 mm thick, composed of closely arranged parallel hyphae radiating from the point of attachment, tinted towards the margins, intermediate layer wanting; generative hyphae to 4μ diameter, walls 0.5μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 130μ deep, a close palisade of basidia, paraphyses, pseudophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, 64–80 × 10–14μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 14μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, about one-third the length and diameter of the basidia. Pseudophyses filiform, slightly projecting, to 4μ diameter, apices rounded. Gloeocystidia arising from the base of the subhymenium, penetrating the hymenium but not projecting, forming a dense palisade, flexuous-cylindrical, 110–160 × 10–16μ. Spores globose or subglobose, 14–17μ diameter, walls sparsely and coarsely aculeate, 0.5–1μ thick, amyloid, spines to 2.5μ long, tinted. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered on bark of dead branches. Phyllocladus alpinus Hook. f. Wellington: Maungatorutoru Valley, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,000ft, March, 1948, J. M. Dingley; Whakapapa Valley, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,000ft. October, 1949, J. M. Dingley, type collection, P.D.D. herbarium, No. 7449. Specific features are the small saucer-shaped pilei with exterior surfaces clothed in downpressed hairs, brittle context globose aculeate spores and large prominent gloeocystidia forming a dense palisade. In its aculeate spores the species resembles A. amorphus. It differs in that spores are of different shape, much smaller, gloeocystidia are present, and pilei larger and of different shape. Four species possess fructifications which are at first pateriform with upturned margins, naked cylindrical pseudophyses and cylindrical gloeocystidia. Three are endemic and form a small section which appears to be confined to this region. Piler of A. patellaeformis and A. pateriformis retain their pateriform shape. Those of A. parmuliformis and A. limonisporus soon coalesce to form effused areas with peripheral margins upturned or plane. Each colony is then indicated by ridges at points of coalescence (A. limonisporus), different lines of colour, or crevices (A. parmuliformis). 2. Aleurodiscus pateriformis sp. nov. Pl 24, fig. 1, Text-fig. 2. Hymenophorum coriaceum, pateriforme, late basi adjunctum, marginibus liberis et recurvatis, 5–28 mm diam.; superficies hymenii plana, ochracea vel pallide rubro-purpurea, demum inaequaliter rimosa. Contextus isabellinus, 0.5–0.75 mm crassus, hyphae generatoriae 4–5μ diam., hyalinae, enodulosae, parietibus 1–1.5μ crassis. Basidia subclavata, 64–110 × 10–12μ. Pseudophyses flexuoso-cylindricales, inaequales, 5–6μ diam. Gloeocystidia flexuoso-cylindricalia, ad 130 × 6–8μ, corruentia. Sporae ellipticae vel obovatae, apiculatae, 11–16 × 8–10μ, parietibus levibus, 0.2μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore annual, coriaceous, pateriform, with upturned margins and broad bases, 5–28 mm diameter, sometimes connate laterally when extending to 4 cm; exterior bay-brown, strongly radiate-striate, naked; margin chestnut-brown, crenate, inturned; hymenial surface plane, ochre or pallid plum, at length creviced irregularly. Context isabelline. 0.5–0.75 mm thick, basal layer of densely compacted radiately arranged hyphae, more densely woven peripherally, generative hyphae 4–5μ diameter, walls 1–1.5μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer 90–130μ deep, a dense palisade of basidia, paraphyses, pseudophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia projecting slightly, subclavate, 64–110 × 10–12μ, 4-spored, sterigmata slightly arcuate, subulate, to 12μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, to 40 × 8μ. Pseudophyses flexuous-cylindrical, 5–6μ diameter, slightly projecting. Gloeocystidia (1) penetrating the hymenial layer, arising from the base of the subhymenium, flexuous-cylindrical, to 130 × 6–8μ, (2) arising deeply in the context and penetrating the base of the hymenial layer, flexuous-cylindrical or apically fusiform and expanded, to 10μ diameter, soon collapsing and

leaving lacunae in the tissues Spores elliptical or obovate, apiculate, 11–16 × 8–10μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, amyloid. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered or crowded on bark of dead stems. Olearia rani (A. Cunn.) Ckn. Wellington: Gable-end Ridge, Tararuas, 2,500ft, November, 1932, E. E. Chamberlain, type collection, P.D.D. herbarium, No. 3837. Fructifications are larger in diameter than in any other species examined, saucershaped, with broad bases and upturned naked margins, and resemble somewhat in macrofeatures pilei of certain species of Stereum. Spores are of the same size and shape as those of A. parmuliformis. Gloeocystidia which penetrate the hymenial layer arise at the base of the subhymenium and vary appreciably in diameter, most being flexuous-cylindrical with thin walls; those which extend into the base of the hymenial layer arise deeply in the context, often exceed 150μ in length, and may be flexuous-cylindrical or simulate conducting vessels with apices slightly inflated. The latter finally collapse, leaving lacunae in the base of the subhymenium. 3. Aleurodiscus parmuliformis sp. nov. Pl. 24, fig. 3; Text-fig. 3. Hymenophorum membranaceum, orbiculatum, scutellatum, angusta basi adjunctum, marginibus liberis et planis, 2–10 mm diam., inaequaliter coalescens ad 6 cm longum; superficies hymenii eburnea deinde cremea, ochracea vel bubalina, demum alte areolate rimosa. Contextus albus, ad 0.5 mm crassus; hyphae generatoriae 4–6μ diam., hyalinae, enodulosae, Text-fig. 2.—Aleurodiscus pateriformis. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and pseudophyses, × 500. Original.

Text-fig. 3.—Aleurodiscus parmuliformis. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and pseudophyses, × 500. Spores × 1000. Original.

parietibus 1–1.5μ crassis. Basidia subclavata, 65–85 × 12–16μ. Pseudophyses cylindricales ad 6μ diam., saepe geniculati. Gloeocystidia flexuoso-cylindricalia, 80–160 × 6–16μ. Sporae late ellipticae, ovales vel obovatae, oblique apiculatae, 12–16 × 8–10μ, parietibus levibus. 0.25μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore annual, membranous, scutellate, consisting of numerous orbicular colonics 2–10 mm diameter, coalescing to form irregular linear areas to 6cm long; margins in young specimens upturned slightly, tan, hirsute, becoming plane, definite, white arachnoid; hymenial surface ivory-white, or cream, remaining so or becoming ochre, buff with reddish tints, olivebrown or dingy-brown, finally deeply areolately creviced, segments separating widely. Context white, to 0.5 mm thick, basal layer of mainly parallel hyphae radiately arranged, crystals embedded between the basal layer and subhymenium; generative hyphae 4–6μ diameter, walls 1–1.5μ thick, hyaline, freely branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 100μ deep, a dense palisade of basidia, paraphyses, pseudophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, 65–85 × 12–16μ, 4-spored, sterigmata slightly arcuate, subulate, to 12μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, to 60 × 9μ. Pseudophyses cylindrical, slightly projecting near the surface often bent or angled, apices acuminate or rounded, sometimes forked. Gloeocystidia scanty or abundant in different collections, arising in the base of the subhymenium, flexuous-cylindrical, 80–160 × 6–16μ, apices rounded. Spores broadly elliptical, oval or obovate, obliquely apiculate 12–16 × 8–10μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.25μ thick, amyloid. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Adnate on bark of dead branches. Beilschmiedia tawa (A. Cunn.) Hook. f. & Benth. Auckland: Earthquake Flat, Rotorua, 1,500ft, June, 1952, G. H. C. Coprosma foetidissima Forst. Otago: Horseshoe Bay, Stewart Island, February, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Fuchsia excorticata L.f Taranaki: Mt. Egmont, 4,000ft, April, 1946, J. M. Dingley. Hedycarya arborea Forst. Auckland: Mt. Pirongia, 2,000ft, May, 1947, G. H. C. Leptospermum ericoides A. Rich. Wellington: Oturere River, Mt. Tongariro, 4,000ft, December, 1946, G. H. C. Nothofagus fusca (Hook. f.) Oerst. Westland. Staircase Creek, Reefton, 2,000ft, December, 1952, S. D. Baker. Nothopanax colensoi (Hook. f.) Seem. Taranaki: Mt. Egmont, 3,000ft, March, 1951, J. M. Dingley: Mt. Egmont, 4,000ft, February, 1952, G. H. C. Wellington. Whakapapa Valley, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,000ft, October, 1949, J. M. Dingley. Nothopanax simplex (Forst. f.) Seem. Otago: Bullerfields Bay, Stewart Island, February, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Olearia colensoi Hook. f. Taranaki: Mt. Egmont, 4,000ft, August, 1955, G. H. C. Pittosporum trinuifolium Banks & Sol. Auckland: Earthquake Flat, Rotorua, 1,500ft, June, 1952, G. H. C. Phyllocladus trichomanoides Don. Wellington: Mt. Tongariro, 2,500ft, March, 1952, G. H. C. Pseudowintera colorata (Raoul) Dandy. Auckland: Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, 2,000ft, May, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Quintinia serrata A. Cunn Westland: Weheka, 700ft, November, 1954, J. M. Dingley; Pukekura, November, 1954, J. M. Dingley, Harihari, November, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Rhipogonum scandens Forst. Auckland: Earthquake Flat, Rotorua, 1,500ft, June, 1952, G. H. C. Suttonia salicina Hook. f. Auckland: Te Moehau, Coromandel Peninsula, 2,500ft, December, 1946, J. M. Dingley; Hauhaungaroa Range, 2,800ft, March, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Weinmannia raccmosa L.f. Auckland: Mamaku Forest, 1,800ft, September, 1954, G. H. C., type collection, P. D. D. harbarium. No. 15218. Wellington: Ohakune Track, Mt. Ruapehu, 2,500ft, December, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Westland: Orwel Creek, Ahaura, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley.

Separated from other species in this section by the scutellate pilei which are usually plane with the surface of the substratum, and often attached throughout their breadth. The hymenial surface may be white (as in the type), buff, or olivaceous, and the context is soft and readily sectioned. Colonies soon merge to form irregular areas, which may extend to 6cm. In most collections the surface is scantily creviced; in two they are creviced so deeply that the white basal layer is exposed, and segments separated by 0.5–1 mm. Glococystidia usually form a palisade in the hymenial layer and are also scattered in the context. In one series they are abundant and attain Text-fig. 4.—Aleurodiscus limonisporus. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and pseudophyses, × 550. Original.

a diameter of 16μ; in a second they are scanty and do not exceed a diameter of 9μ. Masses of crystals are usually embedded at the base of the hymenial layer. 4. Aleurodiscus limonisporus Reid, Kew Bulletin of Miscellancous Information, 631, 1955. Pl. 24, fig. 4, Text-fig. 4. Hymenophore annual, ceraceous, at first developing as numerous small orbicular or irregular disciform colonies with free margins and attached by a broad base, 2–10 mm diameter, soon connate and extending to form irregularly linear areas to 15 × 3 cm; exterior surface tomentose with convoluted hairs, tan, hymenial surface even, reticulated with ridges at points of coalescence, at first cream, soon pallid flesh-pink or salmon, not creviced Context white to 0.5 mm thick, composed of radiately arranged hyphae densely compacted and partly cemented at margins, embedding crystals in the base; generative hyphae 5–6μ diameter, walls 1–1.5μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 150μ deep, a dense palisade of basidia, paraphyses, pseudophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, projecting slightly, 60–130 × 16–26μ, 4-spored; sterigmata slightly arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses cylindrical, or with slightly expanded apices, to 100 × 10μ. Pseudophyses cylindrical, slightly projecting, often bent or angled, some forked, not moniliform, 4–6μ diameter. Gloeocystidia arising from the base of the hymenial layer and penetrating the hymenial layer, not projecting, flexuous-cylindrical, to 160 × 10μ. Spores citriform, or elliptical and biapiculate. 16–24 × 12–16μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.25μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality: Victoria, Australia. Distribution: Australia, New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered or connate on bark of dead fallen branches. Nothofagus cliffortioides (Hook. f.) Oerst. Wellington: Whakapapa Valley, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,000ft, April, 1947, J. M. Dingley; Maungatorutoru Stream, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,000ft, March, 1948, J. M. Dingley; Whakapapaiti Stream, Mt. Ruapehu, 4,000ft, January, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Chateau, Mt. Ruapehu, 3,500ft, February, 1951, G. H. C. Nothofagus fusca (Hook. f) Oerst. Auckland: Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, 2,000ft, May, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: Ohakune Track, Mt. Ruapehu, 4,500ft, July, 1935, E. E. Chamberlain. Westland: Orwell Creek, Ahaura, April. 1955, J. M. Dingley; Totara Flat, Glandville Forest. April, 1955, J. M. Dingley. Collections vary in surface colour, spore size, diameter of hyphae and thickness of their walls. The species may be separated from others with disciform pilei by the large citriform, biapiculate spores, large basidia, and reticulated surface of the hymenium. Reticulations are produced by ridges formed at points of coalescence of individual colonies. The species appears to be confined to two endemic species of Nothofagus. 5. Aleurodiscus ochraceo-flavus Lloyd, Mycological Notes, No. 70, 1228, 1923. Pl. 25, fig. 1; Text-fig. 5. Hymenophore annual, coriaceous, pezizoid, orbicular with margins free and attached by a narrow base, 2–7 mm diameter, often laterally confluent, forming linear areas to 2.5 cm in length; exterior surface white, tomentose, margins inturned, acute, entne or lobed; hymenial surface slightly concave, pruinose, even or dimpled in large specimens, flesh colour, not creviced. Context white, to 0.5 mm thick, composed of compacted hyphae radrately arranged, with embedded crystals at the base of the subhymenium; tomentum of two types (1) long, cylindrical and unbranched covered with densely arranged spines; (2) angled hyphae bearing hooked spines near the bends; generative hyphae to 6μ diameter, walls 0.5–1.5μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions Hymenial layer to 190μ deep, a dense palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia clavate, projecting slightly 110–160 × 16–22μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, to 100 × 10μ. Acanthophyses arising in the base of the subhymenium and traversing the hymenium, cylindrical, to 8μ diameter, covered throughout with lateral blunt spines 2–4μ long. Gloeocystidia arising in the base of the subhymenium and traversing the hymenium to different levels, flexuous-cylindrical, 60–250 × 7–12μ, walls 0.5μ thick. Spores obovate, elliptical with one side slightly flattened, or a few D-shaped, 18–20 × 12–15μ, walls finely verruculose-aculeate, hyaline, 0.5μ thick, amyloid.

Type Locality. York Bay, Wellington, New Zealand. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat Scattered or confluent on bark of dead branches and stems. Leptospermum ericoides A. Rich. Auckland: Great Island, Three Kings, December, 1945, January, 1951, G. T. S. Baylis; Whangarei Heads, 300ft, July, 1947, G. H. C.; Silverdale, October, 1950, J. M. Dingley; Kauri Glen, Northcote, August, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Cornwallis, 50ft, November, 1952, J. D. Atkinson; Atkinson Park, Titirangi, 900ft, June, 1953, J. M. Dingley; Karekare, July, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: Waikato River, Kaimanawa Ranges, 2,800ft; January, 1955, G. H. C. Text-fig. 5—Aleurodiscus ochraceo-flavus. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and acanthophyses, × 550. Original.

Leptospermum scoparium Forst. Auckland: Huka Falls, 1,200ft, September, 1938, G. W. Matthews; Birkenhead Kauri Park, July, 1946, J. M. Dingley; Orakei Bush, September, 1948, D. W. McKenzie; Cascades, Waitakeres, September, 1948, P. M. Ambler; Parahaki, Whangarei, May, 1949, J. M. Dingley; Titirangi, Waitakeres, 900ft, July, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Anawhata Road, Waitakeres, 900ft, May, 1954. J. M. Dingley; Rereatukahia Reserve, Katikati, 350ft, September, 1954, G. H. C. Wellington: York Bay, 300ft, August, 1922, G. H. C.; part of type collection, P.D.D. herbarium, No. 630; York Bay, 350ft, March, 1923, E. J. Butler-G. H. C.; Featherston, November, 1947, G. H. C; Turangi, 1,200ft, October, 1949, J. M. Dingley; Pangarara River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,000ft, September, 1953, G. H. C. Nelson: Maitai Valley, 500ft, September, 1953, L. W. Tiller. Fructifications are pezizoid, rarely cupulate, and attached by a narrow base with margins free. The hymenial layer is deep, and densely compacted. Acanthophyses are abundant, cylindrical, and covered throughout with bluntly pointed lateral spines. In the surface tomentum there are present both this type of acanthophyses and angled branched hyphae bearing long, acuminate, often hooked spines. Spores are for the most part obovate or elliptical with a basal apiculus, though a few detached spores were seen to be D-shaped. They are smaller than those of A. mirabilis and A. zealandicus. The species appears to be confined to two species of Leptospermum. Lloyd's description of the type is faulty in most particulars. Pilei are pezizoid, not resupinate; the hymenial surface is flesh-pink, not ochraceous; there are no filiform paraphyses, and acanthophyses are crowded, not rare; spores are not compressed-globose and smooth, but obovate or elliptical and verruculose-aculeate. Three species, A. mirabilis, A ochraceo-flavus and A. zealandicus, show a close resemblance to one another. Fructifications are pezizoid, tomentose at margins with branched spinose hairs and acanthophyses, basidia are similar in size and shape, spores are verruculose-aculeate, and acanthophyses cylindrical and spinose. Separation may be made upon the differences in spores, acanthophyses and tomentum. Acanthophyses are spinose on the upper third in A zealandicus, throughout their length in A. ochraceo-flavus, and of two types in A mirabilis. Spores are commonly D-shaped or citriform in A. mirabilis and A. zealandicus, obovate or elliptical in A. ochraceo-flavus, coarsely aculeate in A. zealandicus and finely verruculose-aculeate in A. mirabilis and A. ochraceo-flavus. 6 Aleurodiscus mirabilis (Berkeley & Curtis) Hoehnel, Sitzungsberichte K. Akademie der Wissenschaften, Wien, 118, 818, 1909. Pl. 25, fig. 2; Text-fig. 6. Psilopezia mirabilis Berk. & Curt. Jour. Linn. Soc., 10, 364, 1868. Corticium peradeniae Berk. & Br., Jour. Linn. Soc., 14, 69, 1873. Aleurodiscus javanicus Henn., Monsunia, 1, 139, 1900. A. peradeniae (Berk. & Br.) Henn., Monsunia, 1, 139, 1900. A. usambarensis Henn., Bot. Jahrb., 34, 43, 1904. A. spinulosa Henn., Bot. Jahrb., 38, 107, 1905. A. apiculatus Burt, Ann. Missouri Bot. Gard., 5, 186, 1918. A. albo-roseus Bres, Ann. Myc., 18, 46, 1920. A. japonicus Yasuda, ex Lloyd, Myc. Notes, No. 62, 927, 1920. A. scopulatus Lloyd, Myc. Notes, No. 65, 1067, 1921. A. peteloti Pat., Bull. Soc. Myc. Fr., 40, 31, 1924. A. salmoneus Pat., Mem. Acad. Malgache, 6, 11, 1927. A. sinensis Teng & Ling, Contr. Biol. Lab. Sci. Soc. China, 8, 273, 1933. A. pallide-roseus Litsch., Symb. Sinica, II, 41, 1937. Hymenophore annual, membranous, at first pateriform or cupulate and attached by a small base when orbicular and 1–3 mm diameter, becoming laterally confluent and extending to 4 × 0.5 cm; exterior surface white and tomentose; margins slightly raised, tomentose, entire, white; hymenial surface farinose, white, then cream, finally pallid ochre, at length creviced. Context white, 0.3–0.5 mm thick, of parallel hyphae radiately arranged, many spinose, em-

bedding crystals, surface tomentum of angled hyphae bearing acuminate sometimes hooked spines, and of acanthophyses similar to those of the hymenial layer, generative hyphae 3–5μ diameter, walls 0.5μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 180μ deep, a loose palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia clavate, projecting, 80–160 × 16–24μ, 2–4-spored; sterigmata slightly arcuate, subulate, to 24μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, to 80 × 12μ, both paraphyses and basidia occasionally bearing groups of spines near their bases. Acanthophyses of two types (1) cylindrical, 4–6μ diameter, densely covered with short blunt spines, arising in the base of the subhymenium (2) narrow, geniculated and bearing long spines often hooked, present also in the context. Gloeocystidia abundant or scanty, arising in the base of the subhymenium, penetrating to different levels, fusiform, subclavate or flexuous-cylindrical, 70–120 × 9–14μ Spores commonly citriform or D-shaped, when usually biapiculate, or obovate when apiculi are lateral or basal, 24–28 × 14–16μ, walls finely closely verruculose, hyaline, 0.75–1μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality. Cuba. Distribution. East and West Indies, South America, Africa, Ceylon, China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered or confluent on bark of dead branches. Ackama rosaefolia A. Cunn. Auckland: Waipoua Kauri Forest, September, 1949, J. M. Dingley Beilschmiedia tawa (A. Cunn.) Hook. f. & Benth. Auckland: Wood's Bay, Titirangi, March, 1946, J. M. Dingley. Coprosma arborea Kirk. Auckland: Little Barrier Island, November, 1947, J. M. Dingley. Dacrydium cupressinum Sol. Wellington: Pohangina Reserve, 300ft, January, 1954, G. H. C. Elaeocarpus dentatus (Forst.) Vahl. Auckland: Sprague's Hill, Henderson, 700ft, May, 1947, J. M. Dingley. Gaultheria antipoda Forst. Taranaki Mt. Egmont, 4,000ft, January, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Knightia excelsa R. Br. Auckland: Titirangi, Waitakeres, 900ft, April, 1947, J. M. Dingley; Glen Esk Valley, Piha, 600ft, May, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Lake Okataina, 1,400ft, June, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Earthquake Flat, Rotorua, 1,500ft, June, 1952, G. H. C.; Kohekohe, Awhitu Peninsula, February, 1953, J. M. Dingley; Mountain Road, Henderson, 600ft, September, 1953, March, 1955, J. M. Dingley; Waipoua Kauri Forest, January, 1955, J. M. Dingley. Leucopogon fasciculatus (Forst. f.) A. Rich. Auckland: Titirangi, 900ft, October, 1946, J. M. Dingley; Kauri Park, Northcote, September, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Orere, Hunua Range, 900ft, March, 1953, J. M. Dingley; Cornwallis, 50ft, April, 1953, J. D. Atkinson; Mt. Te Aroha, 1,000ft, December, 1953, G. H. C. Wellington: Mt. Tongariro, 2,300ft, January, 1955, G. H. C. Macropiper excelsum (Forst. f.) Miq. Wellington: Kaiwarra, November, 1881, T. Kirk; Ngaio, 350ft, January, 1925, D. W. McKenzie. Metrosideros robusta A. Cunn Auckland: Swanson, February, 1947, J. M. Dingley; Whitianga Road, Coromandel Peninsula, 500ft, August, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Olea lanceolata Hook, f. Auckland Wood's Bay, Titirangi, March, 1946, J. M. Dingley. Weinmannia racemosa Lf. Auckland: Mt. Karioi, 2,000ft, March, 1951, J. M. Dingley; Waipoua Kauri Forest, January. 1955, J. M. Dingley. Westland: Karangarua Valley, November, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Separation from other species of the section may be made by several features, notably the acanthophyses, different gloeocystidia and usually connate pilei. Acanthophyses are of two types. One is similar to those of A. ochraceo-flavus, being cylindrical and covered throughout with densely arranged blunt spines: the second is usually

composed of geniculated hyphae, bearing coarse, acuminate, often hooked spines at intervals, often at the bends. Both are crowded in the hymenial layer, form the tomentum of the exterior, and the second type occurs also in the context, sometimes almost replacing the basal hyphae. Pilei are at first small and orbicular, with margins plane or with edges alone slightly raised. Shortly they become confluent, then forming irregular linear areas. Each colony is still apparent, nevertheless, and indicated by crevices where merging has occurred, and the points of attachment. Fructifications are soft and membranous and consequently readily sectioned. Spores are commonly D-shaped, with apical and basal apiculi. Others may be obovate with a basal Text-fig. 6.—Aleurodiscus mirabilis. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and two types of acanthophyses, × 550. Original.

Text-fig. 7.—Aleurodiscus zealandicus. Transverse section, showing gloeocystidia and acanthophyses, × 550. Original.

apiculus often obliquely inserted, or obovate-elliptical with one side slightly flattened. Walls of spores are amyloid and covered with closely arranged aculeae. Bases of a few basidia and paraphyses bear spines or irregular angular projections. Gloeocystidia are abundant though not always readily seen unless adequate sections are prepared. They arise in the base of the subhymenium and superficial layers of the context and extend to the hymenium, appearing at different levels therein, some penetrating to the surface. Most synonyms are given on the authority of Rogers & Jackson (1943, 267); others as a result of examination of authentic specimens. One collection from New Zealand, ex “Crow's Nest, Kaiwarra, November, 1881, T. Kirk” is filed in Kew herbarium under the cover of Stereum ochroleucum Fr. Three, ex “Colenso b258, b590 and b729” are under the cover of A. oakesii (Berk. & Curt.) Cke. 7. Aleurodiscus zealandicus (Cooke & Phillips) G. H. Cunningham, Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 77, 298, 1953. Pl. 24, fig. 5; Text-fig. 7. Cyphella zealandica Cke. & Phil., ex Cke., Grev., 8, 57, 1879. Hymenophore annual, ceraceous, pezizoid, attached by a narrow base with margins free, scattered when 2–7 mm diameter, sometimes confluent into small groups of 2–4; exterior surface at first white, then tan or isabelline, tomentose, soon smooth, save at margins; margin raised slightly, upright or inturned, acute, entire; hymenial surface flesh-pink or salmon, farinose, dimpled or slightly rugulose. Context white, becoming flesh-pink, to 0.5 mm thick, of radiately arranged densely compacted hyphae, convoluted and partly cemented towards the base; generative hyphae 4–6μ diameter, walls 1–2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions; tomentum near the hymenial surface composed of cylindrical acanthophyses covered throughout with blunt spines, remainder of branched hyphae naked or bearing a few coarse spines. Hymenial layer to 180μ deep, a close palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, projecting slightly, 60–150 × 20–24μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 20μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, to 70 × 8μ. Acanthophyses arising in the base of the subhymenium, not projecting, cylindrical, to 6μ diameter, bearing upon the upper third closely arranged blunt spines, naked below, occasionally branched near the apices when branches alone bear spines. Gloeocystidia abundant, arising in the upper layers of the context, penetrating the hymenium to different levels, flexuous-cylindrical, 60–150 × 10–14μ, walls 0.5μ thick. Spores obovate, citriform or D-shaped, with one or two apiculi, 24–30 × 15–20μ, walls coarsely aculeate, hyaline, 0.5–1.5μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality. Winton, Otago, New Zealand. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered on bark of dead branches. Leucopogon fasciculatus (Forst. f.) A. Rich. Wellington: York Bay, 300ft, August, 1922, G. H. C. Metrosideros umbellata Cav. Auckland: Nihotupu, Waitakeres, 700ft, May, 1946, J. M. Dingley. Westland: Waiho, 600ft, November, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Fructifications show a close resemblance to those of A. ochraceo-flavus, for in both species pilei are pezizoid, orbicular and attached by a narrow base A. zealandicus differs mainly in the more simple type of tomentum, acanthophyses which are covered with short spines only upon the upper third, abundant gloeocystidia forming the bulk of the hymenium, larger differently shaped aculeate spores, and different host range. Collections listed match the type of Cyphella zealandica in Kew herbarium, ex “Winton, N.Z., No. 230, Dr. S. Berggren”. 8. Aleurodiscus berggreni (Cooke) G. H. Cunningham, Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, 77, 277, 1953. Pl. 25, figs. 3, 4; Text-fig. 8. Hypocrea berggreni Cke., Grevillea, 8, 65, 1879. Aleurodiscus peziculoides Wakef., Kew Bull. Misc. Inf., 201, 1931. Hymenophore annual, sometimes reviving a second season, coriaceous, pilei at first scattered or crowded, but discrete, pulvinate, orbicular, attached by a broad base, 0.5–2 mm diameter becoming confluent into discoid areas 1–1.5 cm across, finally deeply creviced into irregular

polygonal segments, exterior margin at first even and rounded, naked, becoming crenulate; hymenial surface at first convex, pruinose and even, cream or ochre, at length rugulose or irregular, radiately crenate, finally deeply creviced and discoloured dingy brown. Context white or isabelline, to 1 mm thick, composed of densely woven, cemented, partly gelatinized hyphae, almost sclerotioid near the base, embedding massive gloeocystidia and masses of crystals; generative hyphae to 10μ diameter in the base, 4–5μ in the hymenial layer, walls 1–1.5μ thick, lumen capillary in context hyphae, hyaline, branched, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer 50–60μ deep, a dense palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, some cylindrical, projecting slightly, 20–30 × 5–6μ, 2–4-spored, sterigmata upright, slender, to 5μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, about the same length but narrower than the basidia. Acanthophyses subclavate, 4–6μ diameter, covered on the upper third with closely arranged Text-fig. 8.—Aleurodiscus berggreni. Transverse section showing gloeocystidia and acanthophyses. Discoloured margin of the pileus on left, × 550; spores × 1000. Original.

bluntly pointed spines, naked below. Gloeocystidia abundant, arising in all parts of the context and hymenium, some penetrating to the surface, 80–160 × 14–18μ in the hymenial layer, in the context 30–56μ diameter with walls 4–8μ thick, hyaline, variable in shape, in the subhymenium fusiform, clavate, or flexuous-cylindrical, sometimes bearing apically a single gemma, in the context convoluted and distorted. Spores suballantoid with rounded or acuminate ends, 9–12 × 4–4.5μ, apiculate, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality. Maungatua, Otago, New Zealand. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Crowded on bark of attached dead branches and dead standing saplings. Nothofagus cliffortioides (Hook. f.) Oerst. Wellington: Pangarara River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,500ft, December, 1946, G. H. C.; Oturere River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,000ft, December, 1946, G. H. C.; Mt. Holdsworth, Tararuas, 3,500ft, December, 1952, G. H. C.; Featherston Reserve, 100ft, December, 1952, G. H. C.; Waikato River, Kaimanawa Ranges, 2,800ft, January, 1955, G. H. C. Nothofagus fusca (Hook. f.) Oerst. Auckland: Little Barrier Island, October, 1945, J. M. Dingley; Lake Waikaraemoana, March, 1949, P. M. Ambler; Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, 2,000ft, May, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: York Bay, September, 1920, E. H. Atkinson; same locality, 300ft, July, 1923, E. J. Butler-G. H. C.; part of type collection of A. peziculoides. Mt. Reeves, Tararuas, 2,000ft, February, 1931, E. E. Chamberlain; Butterfly Reserve, May, 1946, G. B. Rawlings; Day's Bay, May, 1947, J. M. Dingley. Westland: Staircase Creek, Reefton, 2,000ft, November, 1952, S. D. Baker; Orwell Creek, Ahaura, November, 1954, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley; Totara Flat, Glandville Forest, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley. Nothofagus menziesii (Hook. f.) Oerst. Auckland: Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, April, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Otago: Lake Manapouri, February, 1949, Mrs. O. Turbott. Nothofagus truncata (Col.) Ckn. Auckland: Little Barrier Island, November, 1947, J. M. Dingley; Wairongomai Valley, Te Aroha, 500ft, October, 1948, J. M. Dingley. On examination the type of Hypocrea berggreni in Kew herbarium, ex “Maungatua, S. Berggren, No. 241” proved to be an Aleurodiscus identical with that later described as A. peziculoides. The species is endemic and confined to four endemic species of Nothofagus, where it develops upon attached dead branches or dead standing saplings. At first pilei are small, pulvinate, scattered or crowded, and cream or ochre. This is the stage upon which were erected Hypocrea berggreni and Aleurodiscus peziculoides. Later, between them develop other pilei which become confluent, forming large disciform fructifications with roughened surfaces, scalloped margins and discoloured edges. Finally these larger plants become creviced deeply, segments separate and persist as separate entities, in this stage resembling mature fructifications of Stereum frustulosum Fr. In fact they have been so identified by overseas workers, as was pointed out in a previous paper (Cunningham, 1956). Separately, these two conditions are so diverse in appearance that each would be regarded as a different species; but intermediate stages are present in the collections listed showing transition from the pulvinate to the disciform stage. In microfeatures both are identical, so must be regarded merely as conditions of growth of one species. The older form is often biennial, reviving a second season. Pilei then exhibit on the margins discoloured or black often zoned areas indicating stages of growth. Context hyphae and acanthophyses are similar to those of certain other species of Aleurodiscus. Hyphae are thick-walled, densely compacted so that basal tissues of the context appear sclerotioid, the lumen often being capillary. Acanthophyses are abundant, subclavate and bear upon the upper third crowded blunt spines. They resemble somewhat those of Stereum frustulosum. Basidia, on the other hand, are much smaller than those of typical species of the genus, and bear delicate sterigmata.

Gloeocystidia are large, abundant, with unusually thick walls in those present in the context. They were mistakenly described as basidia by Miss Wakefield in her account of A. peziculoides. Spores are abundant, amyloid, and may be seen embedded in the hymenial layer as well as lying upon the surface when sections are treated with Melzer's reagent. When fresh, specimens are scented not unlike sandalwood. A. aberrans and A. berggreni are the only species present in New Zealand in which acanthophyses are clavate and apically crowned with spines, and spores and basidia are of relatively small size. 9 Aleurodiscus aberrans sp. nov. pl 26, fig. 1; Text-fig. 9. Hymenophorum ceraceo-cretaceum, primo lineare, 2–5 × 1–2 mm, resupmatum, coalescens ad 5 cm longum; superficies hymenn alba, prumosa, demum alte aieolatae rimosa. Contextus albus, 120–160μ crassus; hyphae generatoriae ad 6μ diam., hyalinae, enodulosae, parietibus 1μ crassis. Basidia subclavata, 16–25 × 5–6μ. Acanthophyses clavati, ad 6μ diam., in apico 5–14 digitalis processis. Gloeocystidia flexuoso-cylindricalia, 45–80 × 8–10μ. Sporae elliptico-oblongae, apicibus rotundis, apiculatae, 7–9 × 4–5μ parietibus levibus, 0.2μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore annual, resupmate, adnate, ceraceous-cretaceous, at first appearing as small linear scattered colonies 2–5 × 1–2 mm, becoming coalesced forming linear effused areas to 5 cm long; hymenial surface white, remaining so or becoming cream, or occasionally sulphur yellow, pruinose, at length deeply areolately creviced; margin thinning out, fibrillose, white, adnate. Context white, 120–160μ thick, basal layer narrow, of mainly parallel hyphae, intermediate layer occupying the greater part of the context, of closely arranged upright hyphae soon cemented by their walls to form a pseudoparenchyma, embedding masses of crystals; generative hyphae to 6μ diameter, walls lμ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 50μ deep, a loose to palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia subclavate, 16–25 × 5–6μ, 4-spored; sterigmata slender, upright, to 6μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, scanty, narrower and shorter than the basidia. Acanthophyses forming the bulk of the hymenial layer, clavate or fusiform, to 6μ diameter, with the apical region covered with several (5–14) blunt spines 2–3μ long. Gloeocystidia arising in die base of the context and subhymenium, some projecting slightly, fusiform or flexuous-cylindrical, 45–80 × 8–10μ, apices rounded, walls 0.25μ thick. Spores elliptic-oblong with rounded ends, apiculate, 7–9 × 4–5μ walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, amyloid, often adhering in fouis. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on bark of dead stems and branches. Coriaria arborea Kirk. Auckland: Te Puna, coast, May, 1948, M. Hodgkins. Leptospermum ericoides A. Rich. Auckland: Te Moehau, Coromandel Peninsula, 300ft, October, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: Waikato River, Kaimanawas, 2,800ft, March, 1952, G. H. C.; Oturere River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,500ft, January 1931, G. H. C. Leptospermum scoparum Forst. Auckland. Mt. Te Aroha, 1,100ft, December, 1953, G. H. C.; type collection, P. D. D. herbarium, No. 15238; Huia, 200ft, January, 1954, E. E. Chamberlain. Separated from other species present in this region by the clavate acanthophyses, abundant gloeocystidia, small basidia, elliptical smooth spores and effused resupinate hymenophore with a well developed intermediate layer. Arrangement of the context is similar to that of most species of Corticum, and the small basidia and spores strengthen the resemblance. As acanthophyses are present, and spores amyloid, the species has been treated as an Aleurodiscus. Because of its unusual morphology for a member of this genus the specific name has been given. The species resembles A. cerussatus (Bres.) Hoehn. & Litsch. in surface features, presence of apically spined acanthophyses, gloeocystidia and smooth elliptical spores. It differs in that basidia are smaller, clamp connexions absent, and spores are smaller and of different shape. In most collections the hymemal surface is white, and remains so or changes to cream on drying; the collection from Coriaria is rich cream with sulphur yellow areas where growing in bark crevices. It is identical in microfeatures. This and the following species are resupinate and effused, with the context composed of both basal and intermediate tissues. A. candidus, though colonies are

Text-fig. 9.—Aleurodiscus aberrans. Transverse section, showing gloeocystidia and acanthophyses, × 550. Spores × 1000. Original. Text-fig. 10.—Aleurodiscus sparsus. Transverse section showing arrangement of hyphae arising from point of attachment, coralloid acanthophyses and submerged paraphyses. × 500. Original.

usually pulvinate, is treated under the resupinate section since it possesses a similar type of context and colonies are sometimes coalesced and form resupinate areas. Species may be divided into four sections according to the types of acanthophyses and dendrophyses. Acanthophyses of A. aberrans are clavate with apices crowned with digitate processes or spines, coralloid in A. coralloides, A. coronatus and A. sparsus, and botryose in A. botryosus. Dendrophyses of somewhat simple type are present in A. acerinus, A. candidus, A. nivosus and A. aurantius. 10. Aleurodiscus sparsus (Berkeley) Hoehnel & Litschauer, Sitzungsberichte K. Akademie der Wissenschaften, Wien, 116, 809, 1907. Pl. 26, fig. 2; Text-fig. 10. Stereum sparsum Berk., Jour. Linn. Soc., 13, 169, 1873. Hymenophore annual, resupinate, cretaceous, adnate, at first composed of numerous orbicular or linear small colonies 2–10 mm long, soon coalescing to form effused areas 11–14 × 1–2 cm; hymenial surface chalk-white, even, at length deeply and irregularly areolately creviced, margin thinning out, at first fibrillose, later definite and cliff-like, adnate. Context white, to 250μ thick, basal layer of compact hyphae densely woven and almost pseudoparenchymatous, intermediate layer scanty, of upright hyphae; generative hyphae 3–μ diameter, walls 0.25μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer occupying the greater part of the context, composed of a dense palisade of basidia and paraphyses embedded in masses of acanthophyses. Basidia projecting, cylindrical or slightly subclavate, 65–110 × 20–25μ, 4-spored, sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 32μ long. Paraphyses ovate, fusiform, or subclavate, varying in length and shape, deeply embedded, 35–80 × 8–16μ, Acanthophyses arising from the surface of the basal laver and forming a dense palisade, coralloid, with lateral branches, spmose throughout. Gloeocystidia absent. Spores elliptical, apiculate, 25–36 × 16–20μ, walls covered with irregular aculeae to 3μ long, hyaline, 1μ thick, amylond. Type Locality. Victoria, Australia. Distribution. Australia, New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on bark or decorticated wood of dead branches. Eucalyptus sp. Auckland: Whakarewarewa, 1,200ft, June, 1950, J. M. Dingley. The type collection in Kew herbarium, ex “Wangaretta, Victoria,” consists of eight small irregularly orbicular colonies 1–5 mm wide. It appears to be immature since spores were not found. Sections agree with two collections from Victoria, forwarded by Mr. J. H. Willis, collected on fallen twigs of Eucalyptus spp., save that paraphyses are more clavate. Our collection matches these Victorian specimens. The description given differs in several particulars from that of Hoehnel & Litschauer, which was drawn from specimens collected near the Murray River, Victoria. For they had mistaken basidia or paraphyses for gloeocystidia, described a different, type of acanthophysis, and stated that spores were smooth. Basidia and paraphyses arise from the surface of the basal layer and are completely embedded in the masses of acanthophyses which form the greater part of the context. At maturity basidia become elongated and appear above the surface of the hymenium, shed their spores, then collapse. As most are cylindrical they then simulate collapsed gloeocystidia. Paraphyses remain deeply embedded, and might be mistaken for gloeocystidia since they assume many shapes. Nevertheless their origin is clear, since they arise as do the basidia, from the same level, and are composed of similar tissues. Acanthophyses are coralloid, and arise mainly from the surface of the basal layer. They are freely branched and usually clothed throughout with spines which in turn may branch. Spores are the largest of those recorded for the genus. In lactic acid aniline blue mounts they appear to be almost smooth; but in Melzer's reagent are seen to be covered with irregular aculeae which may each a length of 3μ, and stain deep blue. At first colonies are small and erumpent, as in the immature type; later they coalesce and form effused fructifications. It is possible the species has been introduced into the Dominion with its exotic host. 11. Aleurodiscus coralloides sp. nov. PI. 26, fig. 3; Text-fig. 11. Hymenophorum cretaceum, resupinatum, ad 15 × 3 cm, superficies hymenii cretaceo-alba, interdum cremea vel pallide losea, alte areolatae rimosa. Contextus albus, ad 0.5 mm crassus;

hyphae generatoriae 3–6μ diam.; hyalinae, nodulosae, parietibus 0.5μ crassis. Basidia subclavata, 60–115 × 16–26μ, celeriter corruntia. Acanthophyses coralloides, crasse ramosi et spinis inaequalibus tecti. Sporae fere ovales, multae subglobosae, 18–25 × 16–22μ, parietibus inaequaliter areolato-verrucosis, 1μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore resupinate, annual, cretaceous, adnate, at first composed of numerous small orbicular scattered colonies 1–2 mm diameter, soon coalescing to form effused linear areas to 15 × 3 cm; margins thinning out, irregular, arachnoid, adnate; hymenial surface chalk-white, sometimes tinted cream or pallid pink, deeply areolately creviced, crevices following lines of coalescence, even or irregularly tuberculate. Context white, to 0.5 mm thick, composed of loosely arranged hyphae radiating from points of attachment, embedding masses of crystals; generative hyphae 3–6μ diameter, walls 0.5μ thick, or lumen almost capillary, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer vaguely defined, to 80μ deep, a scanty palisade of basidia, paraphyses and acanthophyses. Basidia subclavate, often distorted and geniculated, projecting, soon collapsing, 60–115 × 16–26μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 24μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, scanty, buried in the tissues, to 110 × 12μ. Acanthophyses coralloid, branched, freely spinose, varying in shape and size, arising from the hyphae of the context and at different levels, projecting, lumen capillary. Gloeocystidia absent. Spores commonly oval, many subglobose, a few globose, 18–25 × 16 22μ, walls irregularly aculeate, 1μ thick, hyaline, amyloid, spines reaching a length of 3μ. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on bark of dead branches, twigs and standing dead saplings. Nothofagus cliffortioides (Hook. f.) Oerst. Wellington: York Bay, 3,000ft, January, 1925, April, 1926, D. W. McKenzie; Pangarara River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,000ft, December, 1946, G. H. C.; Waihouhounou River, Mt. Tongariro, 3,500ft, January, 1947, J. D. Atkinson; Waikato River, Kaimanawas, 3,000ft, March, 1952, G. H. C.; type collection, P.D.D. herbarium, No. 4971; same locality, January, 1955, G. H. C; Ohakune, 2,000ft, December, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Nothofagus fusca (Hook. f.) Oerst. Auckland: Mamaku Forest, 1,800ft, October, 1955, G. H. C. Wellington: Day's Bay, May, 1947, J. M. Dingley; Kaimanawa Ranges, 2,800ft, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley. Westland: Staircase Greek, Reefton, 2,000ft, December, 1952, S. D. Baker; Ahaura, November, 1954, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley; Glandville Forest, April, 1955, J. M. Dingley. Nothofagus menziesii (Hook. f.) Oerst. Auckland: Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, 2,000ft, May, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: Mt. Ruapehu, 3,500ft, January, 1954, S. D. Baker. Nothofagus truncata (Col.) Ckn. Auckland: Lake Waikaraemoana, trig track, 2,300ft, September, 1950, G. H. C.; Orerc, Hunua Range, 900ft, March, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Three of the effused resupinate species present in New Zealand may be grouped by the coralloid acanthophyses, namely A. coralloides, A. coronatus and A. sparsus. The first is common on four endemic species of Nothofagus and may be identified by the chalk-while or pink deeply creviced hymenophore, oval, irregularly aculeate spores and thick-walled acanthophyses The hymenophore, though effused, is in reality composed of numerous small, coalesced, orbicular colonies. In sections each individual may be recognized since the context hyphae develop from a small submerged base, and are arranged radiately from its centre. Hyphae merge with those of neighbouring colonies, at points of coalescence being less densely compacted. On the surface margins of the colonies are indicated by deep crevices. Acanthophyses are produced in such masses as to mask the scanty hymenium. They simulate branches of coral, being short-branched, both stems and branches bearing spines and possessing walls so thickened that the lumen is capillary. An almost endless variety of shapes may be seen in any one section, so that exact descriptions are not easy to draw. Among the acanthophyses are buried the paraphyses and young basidia. The latter, when mature, elongate and project above the hymenial surface, produce spores, then collapse. Spores are produced in large numbers and may be found lying upon the surface and scattered through the hymenial tissues. Although appearing almost smooth in lactic acid amiline blue mounts they are seen to be coarsely and irregularly

Text-fig. 11.—Aleurodiscus coralloides. Transverse section showing arrangement of hyphae arising from point of attachment, coralloid acanthophyses of diverse types, and submerged paraphyses, × 500. Original.

aculeate when treated with Melzer's reagent. The abundant acanthophyses give to the hymenial surface and to sections their chalky appearance, and because of their characteristic form, the specific name has been given. 12. Alcurodiscus coronatus sp. nov. Text-fig. 12. Hymenophorum ceraceum, resupinatum, effusum, Iineare ad 10 × 1 cm; superficies hymenii alba, deinde pallide cremea, demum rimosa. Contextus albus, 100–150μ crassus; hyphae generatoriae ad 4μ diam, hyalinae, nodulosae, parietibus 0.25μ crassis. Basidia cylindricalia, 50–65 × 12–14μ. Acanthophyses coralloides, apice ramosi et tenuibus spinis tect. Gloeocystidia anguste ovata vel late fusiformis, 50–80 × 20–28μ. Sporae ellipticae vel obovatae, apiculatae, 16–22 × 8–12μ, parietibus tenuiter verruculosis, 0.5μ crassis, amyloidibus. Hymenophore annual, resupinate, coriaceous, adnate, effused forming linear area to 10 × 1 cm; hymenial surface white, then pallid cream, finally creviced; margin thinning out, white, fibrillose, adnate. Context white, 100–150μ thick, basal layer of a few woven hyphae, intermediate layer scanty, of upright hyphae, embedding masses of crystals: generative hyphae to 4μ diameter, walls 0.25μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 60μ deep, a scattered palisade of basidia, paraphyses, acanthophyses and gloeocystidia. Basidia cylindrical, 50–65 × 12–14μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses cylindrical, fusiform, subclavate or obclavate, irregular, 30–60 × 8–12μ. Acanthophyses coralloid, arising from the base of the intermediate layer and forming the bulk of the hymenial layer, apically branched and covered with fine spines, some of the pedicels spinose, others naked. Gloeocystidia arising in the basal layer, some penetrating to the surface, narrowly ovate, clavate, or broadly fusiform, 50–80 × 20–28μ, apically crowned with irregular spinous processes. Spores elliptical or obovate, strongly apiculate, 16–22 × 8–12μ, walls delicately verruculose, 0.5μ thick, hyaline, amyloid. Distribution. New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on bark of dead branches and twigs. Leucopogon fasciculatus (Forst. f.) A. Rich. Auckland: Orere, Hunua Range, 900ft, March, 1953, J. M. Dingley, type collection, P.D.D herbarium, No. 12482. Specific features are the resupinate effused thin hymenophore, acanthophyses of the coralloid type, large coronate gloeocystidia and narrow, delicately verruculose, elliptic-obovate. strongly apiculate, amyloid spores. Spines on spore walls may be seen as a rule only under an oil immersion objective, unless spores are treated with Melzer's reagent when they become more conspicuous. Masses of crystals, often discoloured, are embedded in the tissues of the context. Gloeocystidia bear irregular spines at their apices, hence the specific name. Acanthophyses are of the coralloid type but more delicate and thin-walled than those of A. coralloides. In macrofeatures the species resembles A. aurantius, and both develop upon the same host. Separation may be made by the different gloeocystidia and spores. 13. Aleurodiscus botryosus Burt. Annals of the Missouri Botanic Garden, 5 198, 1918. PI. 26, fig. 4; Text-fig. 13. Hymenophore annual, resupinate, membranous, adnate, effused forming linear areas to 10 × 1 cm, or appearing as numerous scattered linear colonies 2–10 mm long; hymenial surface white, even, at length deeply irregularly creviced; margin sharply defined, adnate, white. Context white, 100–300μ thick, basal layer scanty, of parallel hyphae, intermediate layer of scanty upright hyphae; generative hyphae to 4μ diameter, walls 0.2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 60μ deep, a scanty palisade of basidia, paraphyses, gloeocystidia and acanthophyses. Basidia cylindrical or with the middle slightly constricted, 50–65 × 16–20μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses subclavate, 24–32 × 10–12μ. Acanthophyses arising in the base of die intermediate layer, forming the bulk of the hymenial layer, stem simple, apices botryose, branched, branchlets often terminating in minute inflated and rounded beads, amyloid. Gloeocystidia arising in the base of the intermediate layer, some penetrating to the surface, oval, obovate or clavate, 20–40 × 16–28μ, walls 0.5–1μ thick. Spores obovate or oval, 12–15 × 7–10μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality. Maryland, U.S.A. Distribution. North America, France, New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on bark of dead attached branches, twigs and fern stipes.

Text-fig. 12.—Aefurodiscus coronatus. Transverse section, showing coralloid acanthophyses, coronate gloeocystidia and submerged paraphyses, × 500. Original. Text-fig. 13.—Aleurodiscus botryosus. Transverse section, showing botryose acanthophyses, gloeocystidia and submerged paraphyses, × 500. Original.

Carpodetus serratus Forest. Auckland Oratia, Waitakeres, 900ft, July, 1951, J. M. Dingley. Coprosma rhamnoides A. Cunn. Auckland: Huia, February, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Coprosma robusta Raoul. Auckland: Amodeo Bay, Coromandel Peninsula, August, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Escallonia macrantha Hook. & Arn. Auckland: Owairaka, 150ft, August, 1954, S. D. Baker; Mt. Albert, 150ft, March, 1955, E. E. Chamberlain. Feijoa sellowiana Berg. Auckland: Owairaka, 150ft, November, 1952, G. H. C. Hebe salicifolia (Forst. f.) Ckn. &. Allan. Auckland: Hick's Bay, 300ft, May, 1952, G. H. C.; Kawakawa Bay, January, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Knightia excelsa R. Br. Auckland: Mt. Te Aroha, 1,100ft, December, 1953, G. H. C. Pittosporum tenuifolium Banks and Sol. Auckland: Waitetoko, Taupo, 1,200ft, January, 1954, S. D. Baker; Whitianga Road, Coromandel Peninsula, 700ft, October, 1954, J. M. Dingley. Pteridium esculentum (Col.) Ckn. Auckland: Cornwallis, 50ft, April, 1953, J. D. Atkinson; Hatepe, Taupo, 1,600ft, June, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Readily identified among the resupinate effused species by the botryose acanthophyses, obovate or oval gloeocystidia and obovate smooth spores. Acanthophyses terminate in branched clusters resembling conidiophores of species of Botrytis, or bunches of grapes, the resemblance being strengthened in that terminal ends of most of the branchlets are slightly inflated. Branches stain blue when sections are treated with Melzer's reagent, the only species known possessing amyloid acanthophyses. Gloeocystidia are oval or obovate, a few clavate, abundant and conspicuous in sections. Although the species is relatively abundant in New Zealand, with an extensive host range, including exotic species, it appears to be rare in North America, and there confined to stems of Rubus and Vitis. 14. Aleurodiscus candidus (Schweinitz) But Annals of the Missouri Botanic Garden, 5, 188, 1918. Pl. 27, fig. 1, Text-fig. 14. Thelephora candida Schw., Nat. Ges. Leipzig, Schrift 1, 110, 1822. Stereum candidum (Schw.) Fr., Epicrisis, 552, 1838. Aleurodiscus crassus Lloyd, Myc. Notes, No. 62, 928, 1920. Hymenophore annual, membranous-cretaceous, consisting of numerous pulvnate colonies of irregular shape, 1–4 mm across, which may be scattered or crowded, loosely attached by a broad base, sometimes coalesced to form irregular resupinate areas to 3 cm across; hymenial surface chalk-white, prumose, usually slightly convex, even, not creviced, margin definite, free, rounded, white. Context white, 0.5–0.75 mm thick, of several vague layers, basal layer of mainly parallel hyphae densely woven, intermediate layer of upright hyphae partly cemented to form a coarsely cellular tissue lacunae of which are packed with masses of crystals save at die base of each layer; generative hyphae 2.5–4μ diameter, walls 0.2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 60μ deep, a scanty palisade of basidia, paraphyses and dendrophyses. Basidia subclavate, 60–75 × 12–18μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses cylindrical, fusiform or obclavate, about half the length of the basidia. Gloeocystidia absent. Dendrophyses arising in the base of the intermediate layer, composed of slender hyphae 1.5–2μ diameter, branched apically and densely coated with fine crystals. Spores globose or subglobose, apiculate, 14–18 × 13–16μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, non-amyloid. Type Locality. North Carolina, U.S.A. Distribution. North America, Jamaica, New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered or crowded on bark of living trunks. Melicytus ramiflorus Forst. Wellington: Lake Papaetonga, 50ft, August, 1954, G.H.C. Our collection agrees closely with authentic specimens of A. candidus seen in Kew herbarium. It was found upon bark of living trunks of Melicytus ramiflorus, whereas in North America the species develops upon bark of living trunks of oak, and sometimes ash and maple. A. candidus may be identified by the pulvinate, chalkwhite, usually scattered fructifications of somewhat irregular shape, vaguely zoned

Text-fig. 14.—Aleurodiscus candidus. Transverse section, showing branched crystal-coated dendrophyses, and pseudoparenchymatous context embedding masses of crystals, × 500. Original. Text-fig. 15.—Aleurodiscus nivosus. Transverse section, showing branched crystal-coated dendrophyses, gloeocystidia and erumpent basidia, × 500. Original. context, delicate crystal coated dendrophyses and moderately large, globose, apiculate, smooth, non-amyloid spores. Dendrophyses are composed of slender hyphae, not exceeding 2μ in diameter, with apices branched, branches being either continuous or again branched, the whole forming irregular clusters at the surface of the hymenial layer. They are sheathed with fine crystals, save for apices of a few terminal branchlets. The context is composed of several vague layers in which hyphae become cemented to form a coarsely cellular tissue, lacunae of which are filled with masses of crystals. Four related species, A. acerinus, A. aurantius, A. candidus, and A. nivosus form a small section characterized by the delicate dendrophyses. Spores are smooth and non-amyloid un A. acerinus, A. candidus and A. nivosus. The last may be separated from A. candidus by the presence of gloeocystidia; and A. acerinus from both by its elliptical spores. The fourth species, A. aurantius, differs appreciably in that dendrophyses are naked, spores amyloid and verruculose, and gloeocystidia bear apically one or more gemmae. 15. Aleurodiscus nivosus (Berkeley & Curtis) Hoehnel & Litschauer, Sitzungsberichte K. Akademie der Wissenschaften, Wien, 116, 808, 1907. PI. 27, fig. 2; Text-fig. 15. Stereum acerinum Pers. var nivosum Berk. & Curt., Grev., 1, 165, 1873. Hymenophore annual, resupinate. adnate, cretaceous, effused forming small elliptical colonies 1–25 × 1–5 mm; hymenial layer chalk-white, even, at length areolately creviced; margin definite, often abrupt and cliff-like, crenate. white, adnate. Context white, 60–250μ thick, basal layer of woven hyphae closely compacted, intermediate layer of scanty upright hyphae

embedding masses of crystals, generative hyphae 2–3μ diameter, walls 0.2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, with clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 70μ deep, a loose palisade of basidia, paraphyses, dendrophyses and gloeocystidia embedded in masses of crystals. Basidia subclavate, some with inflated bases, 70–95 × 12–18μ, 4-spored, sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 14μ long. Paraphyses subclavate or cylindrical, 20–30 × 8–12μ. Dendrophyses arising in the base of the intermediate layer, not projecting, apically branched, branches sometimes producing tapered branchlets, completely sheathed in fine crystals; some delicately moniliform. Gloeocystidia arising in the basal layer, fusiform, obovate or clavate, 30–40 × 12–20μ, walls 0.5μ thick; in stout specimens often narrower and longer, to 60 × 15μ. Spores globose or subglobose, 12–16μ, walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, non-amyloid. Type Locality. South Carolina, U.S.A. Distribution. North America, West Indies, New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered on bark of living trunks and branches. Libocedrus bidwillii Hook. f Wellington Whakapapaiti Valley. Mt Ruapehu, 3,000ft, January, 1954, S. D. Baker. Libocedrus plumosum Don. Auckland Cascades, Waitakeres, 700ft, April, 1954, S. D. Baker. Podocarpus hallii Kirk. Wellington: Mt Tongariro, 2,800ft, January, 1955, G. H. C. Podocarpus totara Don. Auckland. Upper Mohaka River, Kaimanawas, 2,000ft, May, 1953, J. M. Dingley. Wellington: Rata 200ft, January, 1954, G. H. C. Collections agree with authentic specimens of A. nivosus on Juniperus virginiana seen in Kew herbarium. The species may be identified by the small chalk-white colonies developed upon bark of living trunks and branches of conifers, non-amyloid smooth spores, abundant gloeocystidia and crystal coated dendrophyses. In thin specimens gloeocystidia are usually obovate or pyriform; in thick plants they become more elongated and narrower. Dendrophyses consist of delicate hyphae, 1.5–2μ diameter, apically branched, with branches often tapering; all are sheathed in fine crystals save for an occasional naked apex. Some dendrophyses bear moniliform nodes which may carry one or more lateral branches. Sections are often difficult to prepare and interpret since context and hymenium are packed with masses of crystals. 16. Aleurodiscus acerinus (Persoon) Hoehnel & Litschauer, Sitzungsberichte K. Akademie der Wissenschaften, Wien, 116, 804, 1907 Pl. 27, fig. 4; Text-fig. 16. Corticium acerinum Pers. (Obs. Myc., 1, 37, 1796) Rom., Bot. Not., 71, 1895. Thelephora acerina Pers. (Syst. Myc., 581, 1801) Fr., Syst. Myc., 1, 453, 1821. Stereum acerinum (Pers.) Fr., Epicrisis, 554, 1838. Hypochnus acerinus (Pers.) Pat., Rev. Myc., 166, 1889. Hymenophore annual, resupinate, membranous-cretaceous, adnate, effused forming small scattered irregular colonies 2–15 × 2–7 mm, linear or lobed; hymenial surface at first white, Text-fig. 16.—Aleurodiscus acerinus. Transverse section, showing branched crystal-coated dendrophyses and erumpent basidia, × 500. Original.

Text-fig. 17.—Aleurodiscus aurantius. Transverse section, showing naked dendrophyses, gloeocystidia which are moniliform, cylindrical with expanded apices and fusiform with apical gemmae, × 500. Original. becoming dingy grey, at length deeply areolately creviced; margin adnate, abrupt, white, often coarsely lobed Context white, to 95μ thick, basal layer of mainly parallel hyphae, intermediate layer wanting, generative hyphae 2–3μ diameter, walls 0.2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 75μ deep, an irregular palisade of basidia, paraphyses and dendrophyses. Basidia subclavate, projecting, 50–75 × 10–12μ, 4-spored; sterigmata slightly arcuate, subulate, to 8μ long. Paraphyses commonly clavate, some cylindrical, to 40 × 8μ. Dendrophyses forming the bulk of the hymenial layer, of upright hyphae freely branched near the apices, 2.5–3μ diameter, coated with fine crystals which may be confined to branches. Spores elliptical or obovate, a few suballantoid. apiculate, 10–14 × 6–9μ. walls smooth, hyaline, 0.2μ thick, non-amyloid; often adhering in fours. Type Locality. Europe. Distribution. Europe, Great Britain, North America, South Africa, New Zealand. Habitat. Scattered on living bark of trunks and branches. Suttonia salicina (Hew.) Hook. f. Wellington: Lake Papaetonga, 30ft, August, 1955, G. H. C. Specific features are the small, scattered, chalky colonies, thin context composed mainly of the branched, crystal coated dendrophyses, and moderately large, elliptical, smooth, non-amyloid spores. Our collections agree with authentic European specimens examined in Kew herbarium. Interpretation of the morphology of A. acerinus is difficult since the bulk of the hymenial layer is composed of dendrophyses coated with opaque crystals. Dendrophyses are freely branched near their apices, arranged at different levels in the hymenial layer, and most coated with fine crystals, either completely or leaving a few apices and pedicels naked. Some of the context hyphae also are coated with fine crystals of the same type. Spores are mainly elliptical or obovate. apiculate, some obliquely so, thin-walled, smooth and non-amyloid. Walls soon collapse, and frequently spores adhere in fours. Collections were taken from living bark of Suttonia salicina, and in Europe and North America the species develops on living bark of Acer and other hosts. The endemic Corticium ampullosporum resembles A. acerinus in macrofeatures, as well as the thin context and elliptical smooth spores often adhering in fours: it differs in the absence of dendrophyses, smaller basidia, larger spores and presence of clamp connexions.

17. Aleurodiscus aurantius (Persoon) Schroeter, in Cohn Kryptogamen-Flora Schlesiens, 3, 429, 1888. Pl. 27, fig. 3; Text-fig. 17. Thelephora aurantia Pers. (Syn. Meth. Fung., 576, 1801) Fr., Syst. Myc., 1, 445, 1821. Corticium aurantium (Pers.) Sacc, Syll Fung, 6, 606, 1888. Hymenophore annual, resupinate, membranous-cretaceous, adnate, effused forming linear areas to 15 × 2 cm, hymenial surface white, becoming cream, at length deeply irregularly creviced; margin thinning out, white, adnate. Context white, 150–200μ deep, basal layer of compacted, parallel, partly gelatinized hyphae, intermediate layer a narrow zone of mainly upright hyphae embedding masses of coarse crystals; generative hyphae 2–4μ diameter, walls 0.2μ thick, hyaline, branched, septate, without clamp connexions. Hymenial layer to 80μ deep, a loose palisade of basidia, paraphyses, dendrophyses, paraphysate hyphae and gloeocystidia. Basidia clavate, 30–55 × 12–14μ, 4-spored; sterigmata arcuate, subulate, to 16μ long. Paraphyses oval, obovate, clavate or cylindrical, irregular in shape and size, to 30 × 14μ. Gloeocystidia arising in the subhymenium, mostly fusiform, some moniliform or cylindrical with rapitate apices, 30–50 × 6–18μ, walls to 1μ thick, apices usually bearing one or two spherical gemmae. Dendrophyses scanty, 2–3μ diameter, with apices scantily branched, naked; paraphysate hyphae simple, apices rounded. Spores oval or broadly elliptical. 14–17 × 9–12μ, not apiculate, walls densely clothed with fine aculeae, hyaline, 0.5μ thick, amyloid. Type Locality. Europe. Distribution. Europe, Great Britain, New Zealand. Habitat. Effused on dead branches and stems. Leucopogon fasciculatus (Forst. f.) A. Rich Wellington: Mt. Tongariro, 2,500ft, March, 1952, G. H. C. From other resupinate species. A. aurantius may be separated by the naked dendrophyses, presence of paraphysate hyphae, peculiar gloeocystidia and broadly elliptical or oval, densely aculeate, amyloid spores. Dendrophyses are scanty, branched only near their apices, and walls are naked and thin. Associated with them are numerous paraphysate hyphae which penetrate between the organs of the hymenial layer to form a loose palisade. Gloeocystidia are mostly fusiform and bear apically one or two spherical gemmae. Some are narrowly cylindrical and either moniliform or cylindrical with inflated apices. They have been erroneously interpreted as pseudophyses by earlier workers. Spore walls are densly clothed with fine aculeate processes which stain deeply in Melzer's reagent. The species resembles A. coronatus in macrofeatures, and both develop upon the same host species. Separation may be made by the presence of dendrophyses, gloeocystidia bearing gemmae and differently shaped, larger spores. Though agreeing in microstructure, in macrofeatures our collection differs from European specimens seen in Kew herbarium by the colour of the hymenial surface. Cream or pallid ochre in the New Zealand specimens, in European forms it may be flesh-colour, testaceous, pinkish-buff, yellow or ochraceous, features which alone are insufficient to separate the two. Literature Cited Cooke, M. C., 1875. Grevillea, 3, 137. Cunningham, G. H., 1956. Transactions of the Royal Society of New Zealand 84, 230. Donk, M. A., 1941. Bulletin of the Botanic Gardens, Buitenzorg, III, 17, 159. Ito, S., 1929. Botanical Magazine, Tokyo, 2, 464. Pilat, A., 1926. Annales Mycologici, 24, 207. Rogers, D. P. and Jackson, H. S., 1943. Farlowia, 1, 267–268. G. H. Cunningham, C. B. E., D.Sc., Ph.D., F.R.S., Plant Diseases Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Auckland, N.Z.