1. the outer walls or coverings of fungal fruiting bodies that enclose spores
Usage: botanical; plural of peridium

Examples

• The peridia of puffballs rupture to release clouds of spores.
• Scientists examined the peridia under a microscope to identify the fungal species.
• The thick peridia protect the developing spores inside the mushroom.
• When mature, the peridia split open to allow spore dispersal.
• The texture and color of peridia help mycologists classify different fungi.