ADDITIONAL SPECIMENS EXAMINED: 6 Collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND; Waitakere Ra., Fairy Falls Track, on Astelia solandri, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, R. Korf, J. Paden, 13 Aug 1981 (PDD 41862); Waitakere Ra., Old Coach Trail, on Astelia trinervia Kirk, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, K. Haggerty, 24 Aug 1982 (PDD 42934). GISBORNE: Lake Waikaremoana, Black Beech Track, on Astelia solandri, P.R. Johnston, E. Horak, 23 May 1981 (PDD 41860).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, semi-erumpent, 0.5-1.2 mm diam., opening relatively narrow, round; crystalline margin wide, entire, greyish in colour. Margin in cross-section 150 µm wide. Crystals forming a 120-130 µm wide, wedge-shaped layer at top of margin. Wall layer 5-10 µm wide, extending from top of margin and under subhymenium, comprising pale brown, thin-walled, 2-4 µm diam. hyphae. Wall surrounded by 40-60 µm wide stromatic layer, comprising dark brown, thick-walled, irregularly orientated hyphae. Periphyses 30-40 x 2-3 µm, mostly unbranching. Subhymenium faintly amyloid in some collections. Paraphyses 1-1.5 µm diam., not differentiated at tips, non-amyloid. Asci 420-520 x 6-8µm, cap 4-6 µm thick with a central pore, 8-spored. Spores 380-610 x 3-4.5 µm, cells 3-4.5 µm long, sometimes with an indistinct gelatinous sheath.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates in 3-4 days, forming colonies on OA 1.5-3 cm diam. after 5 weeks. Aerial mycelium dense, cottony, white to pale pink. Pycnidia globose, 300-500 µm diam., forming on agar surface, dark-walled, opening by an irregular split in the wall. Pycnidial wall comprising tangled, dark brown, gelatinous, 2 µm diam. hyphae. Conidiogenous cells arising from inner wall layers, cylindric, 7-9 x 1.5-3 µm, hyaline, phialidic, solitary or on short, unbranching conidiophores, apertures apical, or lateral and immediately below transverse septa. Conidia acropleurogenous, 6-12 (-14) x 1-1.8 (-2) µm, cylindric with rounded ends, hyaline.

Habitat: Commonly found on dead leaves of Astelia species.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.5-1.2 mm diam., margine integro, griseo, in sectione transversali 150 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 120-130 µm crassum. Stratum parietis et stroma 40-60 µm crassa, hypharis 2-4 µm diam., brunneis. Periphysoidea 30-40 x 2-3 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 420-520 x 6-8 µm, apice 4-6 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 380-610 x 3-4.5µm, cellulis 3-4.5 µm longis. Status conidialis: Coleophoma-similis.
Holotypus: PDD 41859 ex Astelia solandri A. Cunningham

Etymology: asteliae; refers to the host plant. Stictis trinervia is another dark-walled Stictis species found on Astelia leaves; for differences between the 2 species see notes under S. trinervia. S. asteliae can be separated from S. subiculata, the other dark-walled Stictis with a stromatic outer wall layer, by the external appearance of the ascocarps (only S. subiculata has a hyphal subiculum surrounding the ascocarp), and differences in ascospore and conidial width. S. subiculata has not been found on Astelia.

Holotype: New Zealand: GISBORNE: Lake Waikaremoana, Aniwaniwa Falls Track, on Astelia solandri, P.R. Johnston, E. Horak, 28 May 1981 (PDD 41859).

ADDITIONAL SPECIMENS EXAMINED: 5 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Parau, Nihotupu Dam, on Cyathea medullaris, P.R. Johnston, E. Horak, B. Segedin, 6 Jul 1981 (PDD 41845); Waitakere Ra., Sharps Bush, on Melicytus ramiflorus J. R. et G. Forst, P. R. Johnston, 11 Jun 1982 (PDD 42785).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, 0.2-0.4 mm diam., round, opening widely; crystalline margin entire or lacerate. Margin in cross-section 35-50 µm wide, splitting away from hymenium when dry. Crystals forming a 30-40 µm wide, wedge-shaped cap in top half of margin. Wall 5-20 µm wide, extending under the subhymenium and half way up the margin. Wall under the subhymenium comprising gelatinous, hyaline, 1.5-2 µm diam., long-celled hyphae; at sides of ascocarp, hyphae are 2-3 µm diam., nongelatinous, with brick-shaped cells. Periphyses 5-15 x 1-1.5 µm, unbranching. Periphysis layer sparse on collections from woody hosts, well developed on those from Cyathea. Paraphyses 1-1.5 µm diam., propoloid, nonamyloid. Asci 60-85 x 4-7 µm, cap 2 - 4µm thick with a broad central pore, 8-spored. Spores clavate, 22.5-29 x 3.5- 4.5 µm, 4-9 transverse septa, becoming constricted at septa, hyaline.
characteristics IN culture: Spores germinating on agar plates within 3-4 days. Colonies growing slowly on OA and ME, 1-2 cm diam. after 4 months, surface of colony yellow, undulate, sometimes splitting and folding back in small flaps, no aerial mycelium, sterile.

Habitat: Dead tissue of woody plants and tree ferns.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.2-0.4 mm diam., margine integro vel lacerato, albo, in sectione transversali 35-50 µm crasso, siccus ab hymenio se abrumpens. Stratum crystallinum 30-40 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 5-20 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-3 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 5-15 x 1-1.5 µm non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, ramosae, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 60-85 x 4-7 µm, apice 2-4 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae clavatae, 22.5-29 x 3.5-4.5 µm, 4-9 septatae.
Holotypus: PDD 41847 ex Melicytus sp.

Etymology: clavata = clavate; refers to ascospore shape.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ranges, Mill Bay, on Melicytus sp., P. R. Johnston, 17 Nov 1981 (PDD 41847).

ADDITIONAL SPECIMENS EXAMINED: 6 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Cascades Track, on Collospermum hastatum, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 9 May 1981 (PDD 41854); Warkworth, Moirs Hill Track, on Collospermum hastatum, P.R. Johnston, E.M. Gibellini, 1 Sep 1981 (PDD 41857).

Ascocarps immersed, urceolate, round, 0.2-0.3 mm diam., crystalline margin narrow, entire to lacerate. Margin in cross-section 50-60 µm wide. Crystals forming a prominent, 30-40 µm wide cap at top of margin. Wall layer 10-15 µm wide, extending under the subhymenium; comprising gelatinous, hyaline hyphae. Periphyses 20-35 x 2-2.5 µm, unbranching. Paraphyses swollen into a knob-like tip, 2.5-3 µm diam., unbranching, nonamyloid. Asci 60-80 x 3.5-5 µm, cap 1.5-3 µm thick, with an indistinct central pore, 8-spored. Spores fusiform, 15-25 x 2.5-4 µm, 3(-4) septate, slightly constricted at septa, hyaline.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: A small percentage of ascospores germinating on agar plates in 4 days, forming colonies on OA and ME 1 cm diam. after 6-8 weeks. Colonies pustulate, orange in colour, lacking aerial mycelium, sterile.

Dead leaves of Collospermum hastatum.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.2-0.3 mm diam., margine integro vel lacerato, in sectione transversali 50-60 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 30-40 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 10-15 µm crassum, hypharis achromis. Periphysoidea 20-35 x 2-2.5 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, apice ad 2.5-3 µm incrassatae, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 60-80 x 3.5-5 µm, apice 1.5-3 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae fusiformae, 15-25 x 2.5-4 µm, 3 (-4) septatae.
Holotypus: PDD 41858 ex Collospermum hastatum (Col.) Skottsb.

Etymology: collospermi; refers to host plant.
Notes: Stictis quadrinucleata Sherwood, a species found in South America, has an ascocarp similar to S. collospermi, and also has 3-septate ascospores. S. collospermi differs in having longer ascospores, and in having paraphyses with swollen rather than propoloid tips. Stictis dealbata has similar sized and shaped ascospores, but differs in host substrate, in external appearance of the ascocarp, and in not having swollen paraphyses.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Fairy Falls Track, on Collospermum hastatum, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, J. M. Dingley, R. Korf, 14 Aug 1981 (PDD 41858).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, 0.3-0.7 mm diam., round to elongate, crystalline margin entire. Margin in cross-section 70-80 µm wide, splitting away from hymenium when dry. Crystals forming a 20-30 µm wide, wedge-shaped layer in top half of margin. Wall layer 10-15 µm wide, extending partially under the subhymenium; comprising pale brown, regularly arranged, 1.5-2.5 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses 30-35 x 2 µm, mostly unbranching, forming a compact, untangled layer. Paraphyses slightly swollen at tips, nonamyloid. Asci 100-120 x 5 µm, cap 3-5 µm thick with a central pore, 8-spored. Spores, when young, filiform, 100-110 x 1.5-1.8 µm; disarticulating into 1-celled, 2.5-4.5 µm long, spore pieces.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Spores germinating on agar plates in 24 h. Colonies on OA are very similar in appearance to those formed by other dark-walled Stictis species (S. asteliae, S. dicksoniae, S. subiculata), but no conidia were produced.

Habitat: Found once, on dead leaves of Cordyline australis.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.3-0.7 mm diam., margine integro, albo, in sectione transversali 70-80 µm crasso, siccus ab hymenio se abrumpens. Stratum crystallinum 20-30 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 10-15 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-2.5 µm diam., brunneis. Periphysoidea 30-35 x 2 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 100-120 x 5 µm, apice 3-5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 100-110 x 1.5-1.8 µm, cellulis 2.5-4.5 µm longis, ad septa se disjungentibus et articulates simplices formantibus.
Holotypus: PDD 41865 ex Cordyline australis (Forst. f.) Endl.

Etymology: cordylinae; refers to host plant.
Note: Although this species has disarticulating ascospores, a feature more characteristic of Schizoxylon, the margin has a well developed periphysis layer, so is included in Stictis.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Northcote, Kauri Glen, on Cordyline australis, P. R. Johnston, M. E. Lanigan, 16 Mar 1981 (PDD 41865).

ADDITIONAL SPECIMENS EXAMINED: 6 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Chateau-Mosquito Track, on Cyathea dealbata, P. R. Johnston, 29 Apr 1982 (PDD 41874). WAIKATO: Mt Pirongia, on Cyathea dealbata, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, M. E. Lanigan, 25 Jun 1980 (PDD 41157).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, 0.5-1.5 x 0.3-0.5 mm, opening narrow, remaining slit-like in appearance; crystalline margin resembling 2 lips along the sides. Margin in cross-section 30-70 µm wide, splitting away from hymenium when dry. Crystals forming a prominent, 30-50 µm wide layer extending to base of hymenium. Wall layer 10-25 µm wide, extending from near host surface and under subhymenium, comprising hyaline, short-celled, gelatinous, 4-7 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses 10-25 x 3-4 µm, not branching, sparse. Paraphyses 1.5 µm diam., undifferentiated at tips, amyloid. Asci 70-105 x 4-6 µm, cap 2-5 µm thick with an indistinct, central pore, 8-spored. Spores fusiform, 13-20 x 3-4 µm, 3-septate, becoming slightly constricted at septa, hyaline.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Spores germinating on agar plates within 3 days. Colonies growing very slowly, pustulate, yellow or orange in colour, no aerial mycelium, sterile.

Habitat: Dead fronds of Cyathea dealbata.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.5-1.5 x 0.3-0.5 mm, margine longitudinali, albo, in sectione transversali 30-70 µm crasso, siccus ab hymenio se abrumpens. Stratum crystallinum 30-50 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 10-25 µm crassum, hypharis 4-7 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 10-25 x 3-4 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo caerulescentes. Asci 70-105 x 4-6 µm, apice 2-5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae fusiformae, 13-20 x 3-4 µm, 3-septatae.
Holotypus: PDD 41873 ex Cyathea dealbata (Forst. f.) Swartz.

Etymology: dealbata; refers to host plant.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Parau Dam, on Cyathea dealbata, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 23 Oct 1980 (PDD 41873).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, 0.3-0.5 mm diam., round, opening widely. Crystalline margin entire, not extensive. Margin in cross-section 40 µm wide. Crystals forming a layer 35 µm wide, in top half of margin. Wall 5-10 µm wide, extending from host surface, but not under subhymenium, comprising hyaline hyphae. Periphyses 15 x 2 µm, mostly unbranching, forming a compact layer. Paraphyses undifferentiated or slightly swollen at tips, nonamyloid. Asci 130-170 x 6-8 µm, cap 4-6 µm thick, usually 8-spored, branching, sometimes fewer. Ascospores variable in shape and size, usually filiform, 70-155 x 4-5 µm, with cells 1.5-3 µm long, constricted and sometimes disarticulating at a few septa. Spores less frequently irregular in shape, 22-75 x 10-12 µm, with cells 2-5 µm long, often swollen and often forming a few longitudinal septa.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates after 2 days, forming colonies on OA 3 cm diam. after 4 weeks. Aerial mycelium white, cottony. Pycnidia globose, numerous, solitary, scattered, opening by an irregular split in wall, from which conidia ooze in creamy-yellow coloured slime. Pycnidial wall comprising hyaline, gelatinised hyphae. Conidiophores forming from inner wall layers, cylindric, 8-12 µm long, not branching with 2-3 conidiogenous cells held at the tips. Conidiogenous cells cylindric, 7-10 x 1.5-2 µm, hyaline, with a small, often flaring collarette. Conidia apparently forming holoblastically following a short, apical proliferation of the conidiogenous cell. Conidia filiform, not tapering, 55-82 x 1.5-2 µm, 9-14 transverse septa, not constricted at septa, apex rounded, base truncate, hyaline.

Habitat: Found once,on dead wood of Ripogonum.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.3-0.5 mm diam., margine integro, albo, in sectione transversali 40 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 30 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 5-10 µm crassum, hypharis achromis. Periphysoidea 15 x 2 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 130-170 x 6-8 µm, apice 4-6 µm crassi, 4-8 spori. Sporae filiformae, 70-155 x 4-5µm, vel enormae, muriformae, 22-75 x 10-12 µm, cellulis 1.5-3 µm longis. Status conidalis: Ebollia sp.
Holotypus: PDD 41848 ex Ripogonum scandens J. R. et G. Forst.

Etymology: inconstans = variable, inconstant; refers to spore shape and size.
Note: Muriform ascospores have previously been unreported for Stictis (Sherwood 1977a), although they are known to occur in a few other Ostropalean genera. Gilenstam (1974) describes 5 species of the Ostropalean lichen genus Conotrema Tuckerman; 4 have transversely multiseptate ascospores, the spores of the fifth are muriform. See also notes under S. carnea.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Parau Track, on Ripogonum scandens, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 23 Oct 1980 (PDD 41848).

ADDITIONAL SPECIMENS EXAMINED: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Parau Dam, on Dicksonia squarrosa, P. R. Johnston, 21 Sep 1981 (PDD 41876). NORTHLAND: Omahuta State Forest, Picnic area, on Dicksonia squarrosa, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, R. Peterson, A. Hawthorne, 1 Jun 1982 (PDD 42774).

Ascocarps immersed, 0.3-0.5 x 0.1-0.3 mm, margin comprising 2 or more flaps of host tissue folding back, and lined with crystals, opening elliptical in shape. Margin in cross-section 40 µm wide. Crystals 25-30 µm wide, extending to bottom of margin. Wall 10-20 µm wide, extending from host surface and under subhymenium, comprising hyaline, gelatinised, 1-2 µm diam, hyphae. Periphyses 10-20 x 1-2 µm, unbranching, sparse. Paraphyses 1 µm diam., propoloid, nonamyloid. Asci 57-90 x 6-8 µm, cap 3-4.5 µm thick, 8-spored. Spores 40-80 x 2-2.5 µm, 15-20 septate, slightly tapering to one end.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates within 2-4 days, forming colonies 1 cm diam. after 6 weeks. Colonies pustulate, yellow or orange in colour, undulate surface, lacking aerial mycelium, sterile.

habitat: Dead fronds of tree ferns.

Ascocarpi immersi, 0.3-0.5 x 0.1-0.3 mm, margine lacerato, albo, in sectione transversali 40 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 25-30 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 10-20 µm crassum, hypharis 1-2 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 10-20 x 1-2 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, ramosae, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 57-90 x 6-8 µm, apice 3-4.5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 40-80 x 2-2.5 µm, 15-20 septatae. Holotypus: PDD 41877 ex Cyathea dealbata (Forst. f.) Schwartz.

Notes: S. laciniata is similar to S. javanica Sherwood (Mycotaxon 5: 197). The New Zealand species differs in having longer, narrower, more closely septate ascospores, and in being found on a different sort of host. It differs from S. dumontii in having 8-spored asci and narrower ascospores.
Etymology: laciniata = flap; refers to appearance of ascocarp, with surrounding host tissue folding back in small flaps.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Chateau-Mosquito Track, on Cyathea dealbata, P. R. Johnston, 19 Jan 1982 (PDD 41877).

ADDITIONAL SPECIMEMS EXAMINED: 6 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Walkers Bush, on Cordyline australis, P.R. Johnston, 2 Nov 1981 (PDD 41852). NORTHLAND: Waipoua State forest, vic. Forest HQ, on Freycinetia baueriana Endlicher ssp. banksii (A. Cunn.) B.C. Stone, P.R. Johnston, G.J. Samuels, 29 May 1982 (PDD 42786).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, round, 0.3-0.5 mm diam., crystalline margin entire or lacerate, opening widely. Margin in cross-section 95-160 µm wide. Crystals forming a 70-80 µm wide, wedge-shaped layer in top half of margin. Wall 30-70 µm wide, extending from host surface and under subhymenium, comprising hyaline, 1.5-3 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses 30-60 x 2-3 µm, not branching, forming a well developed layer. Paraphyses 1.5-2 µm diam., circinate, occasionally branching, nonamyloid. Asci 185-390 x 4-6 µm, cap 3-5 µm thick, 8-spored. Spores filiform, 200-345 x 2-2.5 µm, cells 4-6.5 µm long.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates within 48 h., forming colonies on OA and ME 3-4 cm diam. after 6-8 weeks. Aerial mycelium short, felted, white, colony surface uneven, lumpy, not discoloured, or becoming coloured vinaceous-brown. Pycnidia scattered in small groups on agar surface, globose, 300-500 µm diam., opening widely by an irregular split in the wall, with conidia oozing out in a creamy-yellow coloured mass. Pycnidial walls 40-50 µm wide, comprising hyaline, gelatinised hyphae, 2-3 µm diam. Conidiophores arising from inner wall layers, cylindric, 5-8 x 2-3 µm, not branching, with 2-4 conidiogenous cells held at the tips. Conidiogenous cells cylindric to flask shaped, 4-7 x 2-2.5 µm, hyaline, with a small collarette. Conidia apparently forming holoblastically, following a short, apical proliferation of the conidiogenous cell. Conidia filiform, not tapering, 85-108 x 2-2.5 µm, 15-19 transverse septa, sometimes slightly constricted at septa, not disarticulating, apex rounded, base truncate, hyaline. A microconidial state has also been found in culture. It forms globose pycnidia, 200-300 µm diam., opening by an irregular split in wall. Walls 20-25 µm thick, of hyaline hyphae. Conidiogenous cells arising from inner wall layers, hyaline, cylindric, 7.5-14 x 1.5-2.8 µm, phialidic with a thickened collarette, rarely showing percurrent proliferations. Conidia oblong-elliptic, hyaline, nonseptate, 2.8-3.5 x 1-1.5 µm.

Habitat: Dead leaves of large, fleshy-leafed monocotyledons.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.3-0.5 mm diam., margine integro vel lacerato, albo, in sectione transversali 95-160 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 70-80 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 30-70 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-3 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 30-60 x 2-3 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, circinatae, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 185-390 x 4-6 µm, apice 3-5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 200-345 x 2-2.5 µm, cellulis 4-6.5 µm longis.
Holotypus: PDD 41849 ex Cordyline australis (Forst. f.) Endl.

Notes: The hymenium of S. lata is similar in appearance and dimension to that of S. ramuligera, and a cross-section of the ascocarp is required to separate the 2 species. S. lata has a wide, fleshly wall, completely surrounding the ascocarp, whereas S. ramuligera has a narrower wall, only at the sides of the ascocarp. The hymenium of S. lata is also similar to that of S. prominens. S. prominens has a much larger ascocarp, has a less extensive wall layer, and is found on wood.
Etymology: lata = wide; refers to wide wall of ascocarp.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Kakamatua Stream, on Cordyline australis, P. R. Johnston, 12 Nov 1980 (PDD 41849).

Other specimens examined: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Cascades Track, on Brachyglottis repanda J. R. et G. Forst, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 16Jul 1980, (PDD 41050); Waitakere Ranges, Cascades Track, on Geniostoma ligustrifolium, P. R. Johnston, 10 Feb 1981 (PDD 41866); Hunua Ra., on Pittosporum sp., P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, H. D. Thiers, 3 Apr 1981 (PDD 41867).

Ascocarps immersed, urceolate, round to elongate, 0.2-0.4 mm diam., crystalline margin entire or lacerate. Margin in cross-section 60-90 µm wide. Crystals forming a 50-80 µm wide, wedge-shaped layer in top half of margin. Wall layer poorly developed, 5-10 µm wide, extending only half way up the margin, and not under the subhymenium, comprising hyaline, 1.5-2 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses sparse, 10-15 x 1-2 µm, unbranching. Paraphyses swollen at tips, 2-2.5 µm diam., not branching, nonamyloid. Paraphyses may be faintly amyloid in some collections. Asci 70-95 x 7-11 µm, cap 3.5-5 µm thick, 8-spored. Ascospores 40-56 x 3-4.5(-6) µm, 10-15 septate, sometimes disarticulating into irregular-sized spore pieces.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores from one collection germinating on agar plates within 4 days. Colonies slow growing, pustulate, pale yellow to orange in colour, lacking aerial mycelium, sterile.

Habitat: Dead twigs of woody plants.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.2-0.4 mm diam., margine integro vel lacerato, albo, in sectione transversali 60-90 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 50-80 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 5-10 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-2 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 10-15 x 1-2 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, apice ad 2-2.5 µm incrassatae, in iodo non caerulescentes. Asci 70-95 x 7-11 µm, apice 3.5-5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 40-56 x 3-4.5(-6) µm, 10-15 septatae.
Holotypus: PDD 41868 ex lignum.

Notes: S. paucula differs from the other Stictis species with swollen paraphyses in ascospore shape and size. S. dumontii has similar sized spores, but has 4-spored asci, and propoloid paraphyses.
Etymology: paucula = few; refers to the few, scattered ascocarps in all the collections.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Kitekite Track, on dead wood, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, M. E. Lanigan, 3 Sep 1980 (PDD 41868).

Additional specimens examined: 16 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Fairy Falls Track, on Dicksonia squarrosa, P. R. Johnston, 25 Sep 1980 (PDD 40993); Kaipara, Mt Auckland, on Rhopalostylis sapida, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 11 Sep 1980 (PDD 40992).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, 0.3-0.8 mm diam., opening widely, round to oblong in shape, crystalline margin entire or lacerate. Margin in cross-section 40-80 µm wide. Crystals forming an elongate, 30-40 µm wide, wedge-shaped layer in upper threequarters of margin. Wall layer 5-15 µm wide, extending from top of margin and at least partly under subhymenium, of hyaline, 1-2 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses 15-25 x 1.5-3 µm, unbranching, forming a compact layer. Paraphyses 1.5 µm diam., mostly unbranching, circinate, amyloid. Paraphyses nonamyloid in some collections. Asci 115-150 x 4.5-5 µm, cap 3.5-6 µm thick with a central pore, 8-spored. Spores filiform, not tapering, 80-120 x 1.8-2 µm, cells 4-6 µm long.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Spores germinating on agar plates within 4 days, forming colonies on OA an ME 2-3 cm diam. after 4-6 weeks; aerial mycelium cottony to felted, white, colony surface undulate, agar not discoloured. Pycnidia globose, 300-500 µm diam., immersed or superficial, separate, opening by a central pore or slit through which conidia ooze in yellow-coloured cirrhi. Pycnidia may later open widely by splitting irregularly. Pycnidial wall 20-25 µm thick, comprising textura intricata, hyphae 1.5-2 µm diam., hyaline, gelatinous. Conidiogenous layer lining lower half of wall. Conidiophores 10-15 x 2-3 µm, forming from the inner cells of the pycnidial wall, hyaline, septate, simple or branching, with several condiogenous cells held at the tips. Conidiogenous cells cylindric, 5-8 x 2-2.5 µm, hyaline, with a small, sometimes flaring collarette, often bearing several annellations. Conidia apparently forming holoblastically following a short, apical proliferation of the conidiogenous cell. Conidia filiform, not tapering, 60-112 x 1.8-2.2 µm, 10-25 transverse septa, cells 4.5-7.5 µm long, not constricting at septa, apex rounded, base truncate, hyaline.

Habitat: Common on dead fronds of Rhopalostylis sapida, and Dicksonia squarrosa, also rarely found on Cyathea species.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.4-0.8 mm diam., margine integro vel lacerato, albo, in sectione transversali 40-80 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 30-40 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 5-15 µm crassum, hypharis 1-2 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 15-25 x 1.5-3 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, circinatae, in iodo caerulescentes. Asci 115-150 x 4.5-5 µm, apice 3.5-6 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 80-120 x 1.8-2 µm, cellulis 4-6 µm longis. Status conidialis: Ebollia sp.
Holotypus: PDD 41004 ex Rhopalostylis sapida Wendl. et Drude.

Notes: S. ramuligera var. minor differs from S. ramuligera in host substrate, and in ascus and ascospore length. S. ramuligera var. minor has an ascospore length consistently below 125 µm, whereas the ascospores of S. ramuligera are consistently longer than 140 µm. S. ramuligera var. minor is found commonly on Rhopalostylis sapida and Dicksonia squarrosa, whereas S. ramuligera, in New Zealand, is commonly found on Cyathea species, rarely on other hosts. Twelve of the 14 collections examined from R. sapida and D. squarrosa had ascospores falling in the range given for S. ramuligera var. minor; 19 of the 20 collections from Cyathea species had ascospores falling within the range given for S. ramuligera. The 3 collections not conforming to this pattern, did not have ascospores intermediate in size between the 2 taxa. The size and appearance of the ascocarps of both taxa are similar, but the external appearance of S. ramuligera var. minor from D. squarrosa differs from that of the typical S. ramuligera. On D. squarrosa the ascocarps are 0.4-0.6 x 0.3 mm, shallow, opening by a pore, but then enlarging longitudinally, splitting the host substrate, becoming fusiform in shape, with the host tissue folding back along the sides in flaps, the undersides of the flaps being lined with crystals. The collections on Dicksonia with ascospores less than 125 µm long are included in S. ramuligera var. minor because there is no difference in the arrangement of the tissue layers in the ascocarp margin, or in the hymenial dimensions, or in the anamorphs.
Etymology: minor, this variety differs morphologically from S. ramuligera only in having shorter asci and ascospores.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Fairy Falls Track, on Rhopalostylis sapida, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, R. Korf, J. Paden, 13 Aug 1981 (PDD 41004).

Additional specimens examined: 9 collections were examined in addition to the holotype. All were from New Zealand, and included: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Sharps Bush, on Dracophyllum latifolium A. Cunn., P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 3 Mar 1980 (PDD 41892); Waitakere Ra., Karamatura Stream, on Cyathea medullaris, P. R. Johnston, E. Horak, B. Segedin, 24 Jun 1981 (PDD 41896). WAIKATO: Ngaruawahia, Hakarimata Reserve, on unidentified herbaceous host, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, J. M. Dingley, 28 Jan 1981 (PDD 41898).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, round, 0.4-0.8 mm diam., semi-erumpent, crystalline margin entire, greyish; surrounded by subiculum comprising fine, orange-brown coloured hyphae. Margin in cross-section 60-100 µm wide. Crystals forming a 40-75 µm wide layer at top of margin. Wall layer 5-10 µm wide, extending from top of margin and under subhymenium, comprising pale brown, thin walled, 1.5-3 µm diam. hyphae. Wall surrounded by 20-50 µm wide stromatic layer, comprising dark brown, thick walled, irregularly oriented hyphae. Periphyses 30-60 x 2-2.5 µm, branching. Subhymenium faintly amyloid. Paraphyses not differentiated at tips, 1.5-2 µm diam., nonamyloid. Asci 420-520 x 5-7 µm, cap 5-7.5 µm thick, 8-spored. Spores 350-600(-800) x 1.5-2.5 µm, cells 4-6 µm long, sometimes showing an indistinct, gelatinous sheath.
Anamorph in vivo: Pycnidia globose, 60-100 µm diam., immersed, appearing to open by an irregular split in wall layer. Walls 25-30 µm thick, com rising dark brown, thin-walled, tangled hyphae, forming a more or less pseudoparenchymatous tissue. Conidiogenous cells arising from inner wall layers, cylindric, 4-10 x 1.5-2 µm, hyaline, phialidic, solitary or rarely on short, unbranching conidiophores, apertures apical, or lateral and immediately below transverse septa. Conidia acropleurogenous, cylindric, 5.5-10 x 0.8-1 µm, ends rounded, nonseptate, hyaline.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates within 24 h, forming colonies on OA 3-4 cm diam. after 8 weeks. Aerial mycelium dense, cottony, white. Pycnidia globose, 150-280 µm diam., separate, scattered over agar surface, dark walled, opening by an irregular split in wall. Walls 30-50 µm thick, comprising partly gelatinised, tangled, 1.5-3 µm diam. hyphae. Inner few layers of cells hyaline, outer layers with dark brown walls, although they are often paler in lower half of pycnidium. Conidiogenous layer is the same as that found in vivo, but the conidiogenous cells are more often held on the short, unbranching conidiophores.

Habitat: Common on the dead leaves of plants with large, tough, strap-like leaves. Also found rarely on Cyathea medullaris.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.4-0.8 mm diam., margine integro, griseo, in sectione transversali 60-100 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 40-75 µm crassum. Stratum parietis et stroma 30-60 µm crassa, hypharis 1.5-3 µm diam., brunneis. Periphysoidea 30-60 x 2-2.5 µm, non ramosa. Subhymenium in iodo caerulescentes. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo caerulescentes. Asci 420-520 x 5-7 µm, apice 5-7.5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 350-600(-800) x 1.5-2.5 µm, cellulis 4-6 µm longis. Status conidialis: Coleophoma-similis.
Holotypus: PDD 41899 ex Freycinetia baueriana Endlicher ssp. banksii (A. Cunn.) B. C. Stone.

Notes: See notes under S. asteliae.
Etymology: subiculata; refers to fine subiculum surrouding ascocarp.

Holotype: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Cascades Track, on Freycinetia baueriana ssp. banksii, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 9 Mar 1981 (PDD 41899).

Additional specimen examined: New Zealand: GISBORNE: Lake Waikaremoana, Black Beech Track, on Coriaria arborea Lindsay, P. R. Johnston, 2 Jun 1981 (PDD 41841).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, 0.7-1.5 mm diam., opening widely, becoming semi-erumpent, crystalline margin entire to lacerate, white. Hymenium yellowish, splitting away from margin when dry. Margin in cross-section 110-120 µm wide. Crystals forming a 50-100 µm wide cap in top half of margin. Wall layer 5-20 µm wide, not extending under subhymenium, comprising hyaline, 1.5-3 µm diam. hyphae. Periphyses 25-60 x 1-1.5 µm, branching, forming an extensive, well developed layer. Paraphyses 0.8-1 µm diam., circinate with some small side branches, amyloid. Asci 180-250 x 7-9 µm, cap 3.5-4.5 µm thick, 8-spored. Spores filiform, not tapering, but coiling tightly on release from asci, slightly shorter than asci, 3-3.5 µm wide, cells 3-4.5 µm long, sometimes irregularly disarticulating at septa.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Spores germinating on agar plates after 4 days, slowly growing, forming colonies on OA 5 mm diam. after 5-8 weeks. Colonies pustulate with white, cottony mycelium, sterile.

Habitat: Found on dead wood.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.7- 1.5 mm diam., margine integro, albo, in sectione transversali 110-120 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 50-100 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 5-20 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-3 µm diam., achromis. Periphysoidea 25-60 x 1-1.5 µm, ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, circinatae, in iodo caerulescentes. Asci 180-250 x 7-9 µm, apice 3.5-4.5 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 3-3.5 µm diam., cellulis 3-4.5 µm longis.
Holotypus: PDD 42783 ex decorticated wood.

Notes: S. tortilis is similar in external appearance to S. prominens, which is also found on dead wood. S. tortilis has wider and shorter asci and ascospores, and has ascospores coiling on release from asci. Growth in culture also differs, with S. tortilis growing much more slowly than S. prominens.
Etymology: tortilis = twisted; refers to appearance of released ascospores.

Holotype: New Zealand: NELSON: Motueka, vic. Pokororo, Graham River Valley, on wood, G. J. Samuels, P. R. Johnston, R. Peterson, 14 May 1982 (PDD 42783).

Additional specimen examined: New Zealand: AUCKLAND: Waitakere Ra., Piha, Kitekite Track, on Astelia trinervia, P. R. Johnston, 16 Jun 1982 (PDD 42781).

Ascocarps deeply immersed, urceolate, not erumpent, 0.3-0.6 mm diam., round; crystalline margin entire, white, eroding, with the surrounding host surface becoming covered with scattered, loose crystals. Margin in cross-section 80-120 µm wide. Crystals forming a 50-80 µm wide layer extending most of way down ascocarp margin. Wall layer up to 40-45 µm wide, extending under the subhymenium, comprising brown, thin-walled, 1.5-3 µm diam. hyphae. Wall hyphae near top of ascocarp margin pale brown to hyaline, amyloid. Periphyses 30-40 x 2-3.5 µm, mostly unbranching. Subhymenium amyloid. Paraphyses 1.5-2 µm diam., not differentiated at tips, amyloid. Asci 230-330 x 8-12 µm, cap 6.5-8 µm thick with a broad central pore, 8-spored. Spores almost as long as asci, coiling tightly on release from asci, 3-5 µm wide, cells 2-3.5 µm long.
Anamorph in vivo: Has not been found.
Characteristics in culture: Ascospores germinating on agar plates in 4 days, forming colonies on OA 3-4 cm diam. after 8 weeks. Aerial mycelium dense, cottony, white with pink tinge. Pycnidia forming on agar surface near centre of colony, globose, 180-300 µm diam., dark walled, opening by an irregular split in wall. Pycnidial wall 15-25 µm thick, comprising dark-walled pseudoparenchymatous or hyphal cells, 2-3.5 µm diam. Conidiogenous cells arising from inner wall layers, cylindric, 7-12 x 1.5-2.2 µm, hyaline, phialidic, thickened collarette, solitary or rarely on short, unbranching conidiophores with apical and lateral apertures. Conidia cylindric with rounded ends, 6.2-10(-12) x 1.8-2(-2.2) µm, hyaline, nonseptate.

Habitat: Found on dead leaves of Astelia trinervia.

Ascocarpi immersi, profunde cupulati, 0.3-0.6 mm diam., margine integro, albo, in sectione transversali 80-120 µm crasso. Stratum crystallinum 50-80 µm crassum. Stratum parietis 40-50 µm crassum, hypharis 1.5-3 µm diam., brunneis. Periphysoidea 30-40 x 2-3.5 µm, non ramosa. Paraphyses filiformes, simplices, in iodo caerulescentes. Asci 230-330 x 8-12 µm, apice 6.5-8 µm crassi, 8-spori. Sporae 3-5 µm diam., cellulis 2-3.5 µm longis.
Holotypus: PDD 42782 ex Astelia trinervia Kirk.

Notes: S. trinervia and S. asteliae are both dark-walled Stictis species found on Astelia leaves. They differ in several respects. S. asteliae has a stromatic layer at the outside of the margin, has nonamyloid paraphyses, has longer and narrower asci, and has larger, semi-erumpent ascocarps with a thick, cushion-shaped margin. S. trinervia is non-stromatic, has amyloid paraphyses, shorter and wider asci, and a non-erumpent ascocarp with a crystalline margin becoming eroded, with crystals being scattered on the surrounding host tissue. The anamorph conidia of S. asteliae are slightly narrower than those of S. trinervia.
Etymology: trinervia; refers to host plant.

Holotype: New Zealand: NORTHLAND: Waipoua State Forest, Yakas Track, on Astelia trinervia, P. R. Johnston, G. J. Samuels, 30 May 1982 (PDD 42782).