Observe the dried or preserved specimens of ascomycetes in the genus Piziza. Note the cup-shaped ascocarp, which is the fruiting structure of this fungi. Also obtain and examine a prepared slide showing a cross-section of a Piziza ascocarp. Using Figure 28.5 and this slide, become familiar with components of the ascocarp - especially asci and ascospores. Be sure that you understand how this structure was created.
Ascomycetes can also reproduce asexually.
Again return to Figure 28.5 concentrate on the upper left-hand corner of this life cycle. Note the conidiophores and their branching tips which give rise to conidia. The second kind of ascocarp can be seen in the fungus Aspergillus. Observe these structures and locate the asci. The third kind of ascocarp can be seen in the fungus Claviceps.