

TEXT-BOOK OF FUNGI 



Phalloideae 



This family is characterised by having the central layer 

 of the peridium gelatinous at maturity. Another feature 



FIG. 118. Aserde rubra, an insect attracting fungus belonging to the 

 Phalloidaceae. The stem and the sheathing volva at the base, which 

 originally enclosed the whole plant, are white. The spreading rays, 

 which are attractive on account of their brilliant crimson colour, also serve 

 as a landing-stage for insects, from which they can devour the dark, 

 central, slimy, sweet substance containing the spores. Two-thirds nat. 

 size. 



consists in the spores, which are exceedingly minute, 

 being embedded in a greenish, fetid slime derived from 

 the deliquescent elements of the hymenium. 



