Sclerotia (and pseudosclerotia) are sterile structures that are formed in the substrate, and give rise to fruit-bodies. They are rounded to broadly cylindrical in shape (sometimes quite irregular), and generally broader in diameter than the stipe. The texture is quite firm and dense, and sometimes soil or wood particles are incorporated.

Sclerotia (and pseudosclerotia) act as a resting stage of the fungus. They are usually produced underground, and are often stimulated to produce fruit-bodies by fire.

See also pseudorhiza, where the stipe is elongated below the ground, but not expanded in diameter, and the stipe tissue in the underground portion is not significantly different in texture to that above the ground.

Choose this state if: there is no sclerotium or pseudosclerotium. This is the commonest state for all but a few genera of agarics.