Hi,

I collected this species on a decorticated branch of Castanea or Quercus lying on the ground. Here's a decription:

Ascomata 240-260 µm ø, 175-185 high (only 2 ascomata measured, size probably varies more), black, semi-immersed to superficial, surface rough, somewhat triangular (bottom flattened), ostioles not observed. Ascomatal wall hard when dry but leathery when moist, 18-40 µm (basal 18-28, side 25-40) thick. Ascospores 1-septate, upper half usually wider than lower half, constricted at septum, smooth, light brown, 11–14,5 x 4-4,5 µm. Asci bitunicate, 8-spored, 57-66 x 9-10 µm. Interascal filaments present, filiform. No reaction in IKI.

I interpreted the flattened, triangular ascomata in combination with bitunicate asci, pseudoparaphyses, two-celled, coloured ascospores and ascomatal wall consisting of rather big cells as signs that this fungus belongs in the genus Kirschsteiniothelia. Since I've only found K. aethiops before I'm not very familiar with other species of this genus. Therefore, I checked the ascospores dimensions of all taxa listed in MycoBank in the hope of finding a matching species. The only species coming close in ascospore size are K. recessa measuring (14)15-17.5 x 5-6.5(7) µm (Hawksworth 1985) and K. populi with ascospores measuring 12 x 6 according to Saccardo's Sylloge Fungorum. Unfortunately, I don't have the work of You Z. Wang, Aptroot & K.D. Hyde, Revision of the genus Amphisphaeria (2004) in which I expect a more detailed description of K. populi. It'd be great if someone could send it to me.

Has anyone found something similar to this species? All thoughts on my find are welcome!

Best wishes,
Gernot