NUCLEAR BEHAVIOUR IN BASIDIUM OF VOLVARIELLA VOLVACEA

Modified cytological techniques were used in this study of the nuclear phenomenon in the basidium of V. volvacea. The number of nuclei in the cells of vegetative mycelia varried from 2-36. The short cells of subhymonium layer had a reduced number of 2-4. The two haploid nuclei were found both in the supporting cells and in the young basidia. Conventional meiotic figures were observed. There were nine bivalent chromosomes at early metaphase aligning themselves in a semi-circle at the upper part of basidium. Resting compact nuclei were at intervals of karyogamy and first meiotic divisions. Neither spindle nor centrioles were observed with this preparation. Migration of the four postkaryotic nuclei into the spores is by slipping of nuclear material through the narrow sterigma. Preliminary suggestion directs to the point that this fungus is homothallic. The sexual mechanism and the alignment of second meiotic spindle in relation to its incompatibility factors is still poorly understood. © 1969, Japan Mendel Society, International Society of Cytology. All rights reserved.