Sexual reproduction is by basidiospores arising from a teliospore developed from a mycelial clamp connection. Relative humidity over 70% favors teliospore development. At the end of the season, a fourth spore type, the teliospore, is formed. This teliospore is a specialized resting spore that can survive outside their host. The teliospore is the most conspicuous part of the individual and represent the smut syndrome.