Hello Everyone,

I have been considering a black ascomycete which grows densely grouped on a decorticated branch of Acer pseudoplatanus. The fruit bodies resemble those of Bertia moriformis, but smaller and with central ostioles. I can not find a suitable genus for the characteristics observed.

The spores are initially hyaline, 4- 6-guttulate, 1-septate and significantly constricted there. Later, they become 3-septate and yellowish brown, without guttules. Their sizes range from 22.5 - 27.5 x 5.5 - 6.0 um.

The 8-spored asci contain two rows of spores and their tips bule faintly in Melzers.

There are no hairs.

I have attached a photo of the fruit bodies, plus images of the spores, asci, excipulum and ostiole.

I wonder if anyone has any ideas?

Thank You,
Peter Thompson.