Ceratiomyxa porioides

Morphological Features:

Plasmodiocarp which, unlike the type species, is not composed of erect horn-like projections, but rather by polyhedral-walled formations that are more or less transverse, imparting a pore-like appearance. The arrangement and size of these "pores" are variable and irregular, appearing whitish or, more typically, translucent, forming relatively extensive masses on the substrate. The term plasmodiocarp refers to a sporophore that, during development, adopts a morphology similar to that of the plasmodium itself, either spreading or branched.

Spores identical to those of the type species, smooth. They develop superficially in an exosporous manner, and each possesses an individual stalk that supports it until release. They are subglobose to ovoid in shape, milky white in mass, hyaline under the microscope, measuring 4–6 by 9–10 μm. Upon division, they produce flagellated cells or myxamoebae which, over time, will give rise to zygotes that fuse, forming new plasmodia and completing the life cycle of the species.

Stipe absent; adheres directly to the substrate.

Flesh insignificant, mucous or gelatinous, particularly when hydrated. Lacks significant odor or taste.

Habitat:

Fruits throughout the year provided environmental conditions are suitable, though not as frequently encountered as the typical Ceratiomyxa fruticulosa. Found attached to the wood of various trees, particularly when dead and undergoing decomposition.

Observations:

Considered by some as an individual taxon, and thus presented as such in this entry, although it may merely represent a variety of Ceratiomyxa fruticulosa. Until very recently, only three taxa were recognized worldwide as species within the genus Ceratiomyxa, two of which are subtropically distributed, leaving Ceratiomyxa fruticulosa as the sole taxon with a cosmopolitan distribution across all continents. They are the only myxomycete species lacking a peridium, and are therefore exosporous.