Platyspora pentamera

Platyspora pentamera is a species of fungus in the family Cordycipitaceae. It was first described scientifically by mycologist G.W. Beaton in 1983. The species is known to occur in Australia.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in the scientific literature by Australian mycologist G.W. Beaton in 1983. The specific epithet pentamera refers to the five-segmented structure of the fungus's conidia.

Description

The fruit bodies of Platyspora pentamera are small and inconspicuous, typically measuring less than 1 cm in height. The stipe is slender and black, while the cap is convex and brown. The gills are white and closely spaced.

The spores of Platyspora pentamera are unique among the Cordycipitaceae in being five-segmented, or "pentameral". This characteristic gives the species its name.

Distribution and habitat

Platyspora pentamera is known to occur in Australia, where it grows on the dead wood of Eucalyptus trees. It is a saprophytic species, deriving its nutrients from decaying organic matter.

See also

• List of Cordycipitaceae species