Claustula: The Forgotten Phalloid

The monotypic genus Claustula (family Claustulaceae, order Phallales) is reported from several sites in Tasmania, having been known previously only from New Zealand. The characteristics of its receptacle and gleba, and the absence of columns, prevent it from being placed comfortably into either Clathraceae or Phallaceae. Within the hymenial layer clavate basidia and infrequent irregular elements bear spores of similar appearance, and the attachment of the receptacle is clarified. Some discussion is presented about the affinities of this species within the Phallales.