A few ectomycorrhizal fungal species form asexual (vegetative) propagules, sclerotia, in the extraradical mycelium. Sclerotia are initiated in the extraradical mycelium, sometimes associated with rhizomorphs. At maturity, each sclerotium develops a melanized rind that surrounds a cortex (central area) of compact hyphae, and a medulla of loosely organized hyphae. The cortical region stores proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, and polyphosphates, making these structures ideal propagules. Many sclerotia can be stored under laboratory conditions for prolonged periods of time and then germinated under suitable conditions. Hyphae developing from germinated sclerotia are effective in forming typical ectomycorrhizas.

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus / Pinus

Pisolithus tinctorius

Pisolithus tinctorius

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus / Pinus

Paxillus involutus

Paxillus involutus

Paxillus involutus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum / Pinus

Cenococcum

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