The success of biodeteriogenic fungi can be attributed to the large numbers of propagules, an effective dispersal system, settlement and attachment to a substratum, rapid germination, and postgermination attachment. Initial attachment, germination, and postgermination of spores of marine fungi are described. Initial attachment is either by: 1) gloiospores (<i>Lindra inflata</i>); 2) the release of drops of mucilage from end chambers (<i>Lulworthia</i> sp. <i>Kohlmeyeriella tubulata</i>); or 3) the possession of elaborate sticky appendages (<i>Ceriosporopsis tubulifera, Leptosphaeria</i> sp. <i>Nautosphaeria crista-minuta, Nimbospora effusa, Pleospora gaudefroyi,</i> and <i>Remispora galerita</i>). On settlement the ascospores of <i>Ceriosporopsis circumvestita</i> and <i>Halosphaeria appendiculata</i> germinate, and the germ tubes become attached to the surface by a mucilaginous sheath. Transmission electron microscopy indicates that the ascospore as well as the germ tube is enveloped by a mucilaginous sheath. The significance of these observations to biodeterioration is discussed.