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new arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species, Acaulospora colossica,
(Glomales, Acaulosporaceae) is described, and its distribution and seasonality
discussed. Spores of A. colossica develop from saccules that empty
their contents in the developing spores. Spore wall structure consists of
3 layers, all originating from the subtending hyphae. The two inner layers
are laminated. The outermost spore wall layer is typically sloughed off
before the spores mature. Two inner walls arise sequentially, Both inner
walls are comprised of two layers. The outer layer of the innermost wall
is beaded. Acaulospora colossica is described from a population in
Durham, North Carolina. Its name refers to the relatively large size of
the spores. Finally, the morphology of the new species A. colossica is compared
and contrasted to two closely related species A. laevis and A.
koskei. |
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