Inhibitory Effects of Light on Ascospore Germination of Pseudoarachniotus Marginosporus

SUMMARY

Visible light inhibits ascospore germination in Pseudoarachniotus marginosporus. The per cent germination was inversely related to the duration of exposure. Sensitivity to short periods of illumination increased as germination progressed. Wavelengths below 500 nm were responsible for the inhibitory response. A search for chromophores produced four pigments in relatively large quantities which absorb light in the inhibitory range. However, no direct correlation could be made between the absorption by a particular chromophore and the action spectrum of the response.