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3 species
Ascobolus is the type genus of the family Ascobolaceae, widely recognized for its coprophilous (dung-loving) habit. Established by Persoon in 1792, the genus is characterized by its small, cup-shaped apothecia which are often greenish or yellowish when young, becoming dotted with purple or brown at maturity due to the protruding tips of ripe asci. It is a cosmopolitan genus with over 60 accepted species found on all continents.
The key diagnostic feature is the operculate ascus containing eight (rarely more) purple to dark brown ascospores that are forcibly discharged. The ascospores are free within the ascus (not cemented together) and typically possess a distinct ornamentation of longitudinal striations or reticulations. The asci usually protrude significantly from the hymenium at maturity.
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Mycology is an evolving science: names, classifications and safety information change as research advances. Entries are compiled from cited sources and reviewed, but may be incomplete or out of date — check the sources, and never rely on this library alone to identify or eat a mushroom.
