Ascospores of some common species of Eurotium (Aspergillus glaucus) as shown by scanning electron microscopy

Abstract

Micrographs of ascospores of Eurotium amstelodami, E. chevalieri, E. repens, E. rubrum and Aspergillus chevalieri var. intermedins taken with the scanning electron microscope and the phase-contrast light microscope are presented. The shape and surface ornamentation of the ascospores under the light microscope are currently the most important features used to distinguish these closely related fungi. The scanning electron microscope revealed certain features, such as pits or holes on the ascospores of E. chevalieri and protuberances on the ascospores of E. repens , too small to be resolved with the light microscope. It also revealed in much greater detail features, such as the roughness of the ascospore faces of E. chevalieri , that are just discernible with the light microscope.