An (plural: ascomata ), also known as an ascocarp , is the multicellular reproductive structure of fungi in the phylum Ascomycota . It is responsible for housing the asci (sac-like structures) where sexual spores, known as ascospores, are produced and eventually released.

: The primary role of the ascoma is to protect developing spores and facilitate their dispersal into the environment. In some species, such as truffles, the ascomata are edible and develop underground (hypogeous).

: A cup- or saucer-shaped structure that is wide open at maturity, exposing the spore-bearing surface (hymenium).

: A completely closed, spherical structure that must rupture or decay to release its spores.