Homokaryotic and heterokaryotic hyphae in Terfezia

Mycelia of Terfezia pfeilii (Ascomycetes) were obtained by two methods, i.e., from the sterile hyphae of fresh fruit bodies or by germinating ascospores. Nuclear staining revealed the existence of multinucleate cells in all mycelia. Paired nuclei were observed only in mycelia obtained from sterile hyphae proliferation, while single nuclei were found in mycelia originating from singly germinated spores. Co-cultivation of mycelia from two different ascospores apparently facilitated plasmogamy, resulting in mycelia with paired nuclei. Terfezia boudieri cultures originating from sterile hyphae also exhibit paired nuclei, indicating the possible existence of a long-term heterokaryon. The timing of plasmogamy and karyogamy in Terfezia is discussed.