Basidiocarp development in Gloeophyllum (Lenzites) saepiarium in the natural environment
Basidiocarp development in Gloeophyllum saepiarium begins with the emergence of vegetative hyphae from the wood, their exposure to the relatively severe, fluctuating conditions of light and moisture, and their loss of direct contact with the substratum. In response to these changes the hyphae become organized into hyphal strands composed of generative hyphae and skeletal hyphae. Hyphal strands direct the growth of the advancing margin and are involved in the development of tomentum, context, and hymenophore. Their marked sensitivity to light and humidity accounts for the presence of growth zones in the basidiocarp. Atmospheric humidity is considered to be the factor of primary importance in influencing the growth, differentiation, and orientation of the hyphae in the perennial basidiocarp during the growing season. The close association of skeletal and generative hyphae allows the fruit body to withstand the extended dry periods characteristic of its xeric habitat, and to develop over a long period of time.