A mechanism is proposed for the creation of taenia on the capillitium of Trichiales. Polymerization of elater wall material forms
spiralling fibrils, releasing water which passes by osmosis into the lumen. This extends the bulbous extremities of Trichia decipiens
elaters producing the characteristically tapered tips. The edge of the elater shrinks as water is lost, and is moulded by the fibrils into
a system of taenia.