Mucor

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Mucor

Mucor (/mjuːkɔːr/) is a genus of fungi in the family Mucoraceae. It comprises several species, many of which are common in soil and decaying plant material. Some species are also pathogenic, causing a disease known as mucormycosis in humans and other animals.

Etymology

The term "Mucor" is derived from the Latin word for mould, reflecting the typical mould-like appearance of these fungi.

Description

Mucor species are typically fast-growing, producing colonies that are white to grey in colour. They are characterized by the presence of non-septate hyphae, and produce spores in a structure known as a sporangium.

Pathogenicity

Some species of Mucor, such as Mucor racemosus and Mucor indicus, are known to cause mucormycosis, a serious and often deadly fungal infection. This disease primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems, and can involve various body parts including the sinuses, brain, lungs, and skin.

Related Terms

  • Mucormycosis: A fungal infection caused by species of Mucor and other fungi in the order Mucorales.
  • Hyphae: The filamentous structures that make up the body of a fungus.
  • Sporangium: A structure in fungi and plants in which spores are produced and stored.

See Also

External links

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