Structure
L. pyriforme formation/maturation
When the basidiocarp is young, the white interior (gleba) consists of
chambers which are coated with basidia and basidiospores.
As the fungus matures, the gleba breaks down and the
spores darken and mature. At
first it’s fleshy and moist inside, however maturation leads to a drying effect.
It is only after maturation that the dry, powdery spores
are able to be exposed to the air and released into the
environment.
photo by swan-scot at flickr.com
L. pyriforme mushroom
The upper, sperical portion of the mushroom is generally the center of attention
since it produces and contains the spores.
It is commonly pear shaped so that spores are only able
to be expelled through the top.
When mature, pressure causes spores to be expelled
through a hole that is dissolved in the top.
The ball portion also
has an outer coat covered in spikes or raised scales to serve
structural and protective functions.
The gleba is
composed of a single sheet of thread-like structures; many of
its relatives have two sheets rather than one.
A certain L. pyriforme relative named
Calvatia gigantea is known to produce one of the
largest fungal fruiting bodies in the world!
I encourage any curious individuals to investigate
fun things to do puffballs!
