Gravity as a Form-Stimulus in Fungi

Abstract

The directive influence of gravity in determining the position of the hymenium in the higher Basidiomycetes is a matter of common observation. The fruit-bodies of these fungi are universally oriented so that the hymenium is exposed toward the earth's surface. If the normal position of the fruit-body is changed, either by accident or by experimentation, readjustment takes place by which the hymenial surface is again brought into a horizontal plane, provided of course that such readjustment is not hindered by other factors. Interesting cases illustrating these phenomena are given by ATKINSON' and also by WATERS.'