Tulasne's specialized study was the science of mycology. His microscopic investigation of fungi, particularly parasitic species, contributed much to the understanding on the complexities of their nature and development. He is credited with introducing the concept of "pleomorphy" in regard to fungi.[2] Pleomorphy states that an individual fungus, growing in different substrates can have dramatically different forms. In 1853 he introduced his views on the reproduction cycle of Claviceps purpurea (ergot).[3] Around this time he also developed an interest in lichens, and in 1852 Tulasne published an anatomical and morphological study of this group. It was in this work he introduced the term pycnidium to describe the asexual fruiting body found in many species of fungi.[4]
Tulasne published over 50 scientific articles during his career. Some of his best work was done in collaboration with his brother, Charles Tulasne (1816–1884), such as "Fungi hypogaei" (1851) and the three-volume "Selecta fungorum carpologia" (1861–65). The latter work is known for its superb detailed illustrations, being created by Charles Tulasne.[2]
Many of his works were published under the Latinized name "Ludovicus-Renatus".
^Lisa DeCesare. 2006. "Tulasne Brothers Exhibit" Newsletter of the friends of the Farlow 47(spring 2006):6–7. Harvard University Herbarium. (See External Links below).
^Louis-René Tulasne. 1855. "Diagnoses nonnullas e Monimiacearum recensione tentata excerptas præmittit". Annales des Sciences Naturelles; Botanique, series 4, 3:29–144. (See External links below).
^Louis-René Tulasne (Ludovicus-Renatus Tulasne). 1855. "Monographia Monimiacearum, primum tentata". Archives du Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (Paris) 8:273–436.(See External links below).