Ascospores
Ascospores
Ascospores (/ˈæskoʊˌspɔːrz/), derived from the Greek words 'askos' meaning sac, and 'spora' meaning seed, are a type of spore produced by certain fungi in a sac-like structure called an ascus.
Etymology
The term 'ascospore' is derived from two Greek words: 'askos' which means sac, and 'spora' which means seed. This is in reference to the sac-like structure, the ascus, in which these spores are produced.
Formation and Structure
Ascospores are formed within the ascus, a sac-like structure that is the sexual spore-bearing cell produced in ascomycete fungi. Each ascus usually contains eight ascospores, although the number can vary depending on the species. The ascospores are typically haploid and are formed by meiosis followed by mitosis.
Function
The primary function of ascospores is reproduction. They are released from the ascus when conditions are favorable and can then germinate to form a new fungal mycelium. This allows the fungus to spread and colonize new areas.
Related Terms
- Ascomycete: A member of the Ascomycota, a division of fungi that produce ascospores.
- Ascus: The sac-like structure in which ascospores are produced.
- Mycelium: The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments.
- Spore: A reproductive cell or group of cells, produced by some plants, that is capable of developing into an adult plant without combining with another reproductive cell.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ascospores
- Wikipedia's article - Ascospores
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