Ultrastructure of Barbeyella minutissima (Myxomycetes)

Abstract

The minute myxomycete Barbeyella minutissima Meyl. was studied with scanning electron microscopy. Comparison of the morphological features of Barbeyella minutissima with those of Echinostelium arboreum H.W. Keller & T.E. Brooks provides evidence for a systematic position close to the genus Echinostelium. Observation of developing sporocarps under dissecting as well as compound microscopes indicated an epihypothallic pattern of development, which suggests a systematic position for B. minutissima that is intermediate between the Echinosteliales and the Stemonitales.