A Comparative Morphological Study of Certain Species of the Dacryomycetaceae

The family Dacryomycetaceae is here regarded as belonging to the Tremellales. Members of this family are common, occurring on dead wood. They are dull and inconspicuous when dry, but when moist they are brightly colored and more noticeable. The fructifications range in size from that of a pin-head up to dimensions of several centimeters, and in shape from broadly effused through pulvinate and resupinate to upright forms which may be stalked and capitate, cupulate, spathulate or awl-shaped. They may or may not be rooted in the substratum. The consistence varies from soft gelatinous to sub-cartilaginous. Because of their wood rotting habit, and because they are sometimes extremely abundant, they are obviously of more or less economic importance. The extent of their activity as wood destroying fungi has not as yet been adequately investigated