Clamp Connection - Use in Classification

Use in Classification

Clamp connections are structures unique to the phylum Basidiomycota. Many fungi from this phylum produce spores in basidiocarps (fruiting bodies, or mushrooms), above ground. Though clamp connections are exclusive to this phylum, not all species Basidiomycota possess these structures. As such, the presence or absences of clamp connections has been a tool in categorizing genera and species.