Stilbum (fungus)

Stilbum is a genus of fungi in the family Chionosphaeraceae. Though many species were formerly referred to the genus, it is effectively monotypic since the type species, Stilbum vulgare, currently has no close relative. Stilbum vulgare forms groups of minute, gelatinous, synnema-like basidiocarps (fruit bodies) up to 0.5 mm tall with a distinct stem and inflated, fertile head. Microscopically, it produces auricularioid (laterally septate) basidia and basidiospores that germinate by budding off yeast cells. The species has been collected on rotting wood and old agaric fruit bodies and may be a parasite of other fungi. It was originally described from Europe, but is also known from Asia, North America, and Australia.