Excipula is a term used in mycology to refer to the thin, sheet-like tissue found on the underside of a fungal fruiting body. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), with the "x" being pronounced as /ks/ and the "c" before the "i" pronounced as /tʃ/. The stress is on the second syllable, with the vowel "u" pronounced as /u/. The final "a" is pronounced as /ə/ or "uh", making the correct pronunciation of "excipula" /ɪkˈsɪpjʊlə/.
Excipula is a plural noun derived from the Latin word "excipulare," meaning "to take in" or "to receive." In the natural sciences, particularly in the field of mycology, excipula refers to the cup-shaped or saucer-like structure that forms the base or receptacle of a fungal fruiting body, known as an apothecium.
The excipula is a distinct part of the apothecium, consisting of sterile tissue surrounding the hymenium, which is the fertile reproductive layer containing the spores. It serves as a protective enclosure for the hymenium, providing support and allowing for the proper development and dispersal of spores. The excipula can exhibit a wide range of shapes, textures, and colors, which often aids in the identification of different species of fungi.
Additionally, the excipula may have important taxonomic implications in fungal classification, as the characteristics of this structure can help distinguish between different genera and families. Morphological features such as the presence or absence of hairs, the smoothness or roughness of the surface, and the coloration of the excipula are all valuable traits for identifying and classifying fungi.
In summary, excipula are cup-shaped structures found in fungal fruiting bodies that play a crucial role in the protection, development, and dispersal of spores. They are an important aspect of fungal taxonomy and contribute to the diversity and classification of different species within the fungal kingdom.
In bot., a receptacle containing fructification in lichens; a minute species of black fungus found in autumn upon dead raspberry-stems.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "excipula" is a noun derived from Latin. The etymology of "excipula" can be traced back to the Latin verb "excipere", which means "to take out, to receive, or to exclude". The noun "excipula" is the plural form of "excipulum", which refers to a receptacle or a vessel.