Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ascocarps are the fruiting bodies of ascomycete fungi, responsible for producing and releasing spores. They come in various shapes and sizes, including apothecia, perithecia, and cleistothecia.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Ascocarps are structures where sexual spores called asci are formed.
They can be categorized into three main types: apothecia (open), perithecia (flask-shaped), and cleistothecia (closed).
Ascocarps play a crucial role in the life cycle of ascomycete fungi by facilitating spore dispersal.
The formation of ascocarps is often triggered by environmental conditions such as nutrient availability and light.
Each ascus within an ascocarp typically contains eight ascospores.