Gastér

Gastér is a term that can refer to several distinct concepts, primarily in the fields of botany and zoology. In botany, "gastér" is often used as a common name for certain fungi, particularly those belonging to the order Gastromycetales. These mushrooms are characterized by their fruiting bodies which contain spores internally, and they typically lack a stem. Examples include puffballs and earthstars. The internal spore mass ripens and is then dispersed, often by rain or the disturbance of the fungus.

In zoology, "gastér" can refer to the posterior part of an animal's body, essentially the abdomen or hindquarters. This usage is less common than the botanical one but is encountered in older or specialized texts. It is particularly relevant when describing the body segmentation of invertebrates. The gastér is typically distinct from the cephalon (head) and thorax. The exact anatomical region designated as "gastér" can vary slightly depending on the specific taxonomic group being discussed. It's important to consider the context to determine whether the term refers to a fungus or a body part.