Basidia

Basidia

Basidia (pronunciation: /bəˈsɪdiə/) is a term used in Mycology, the study of fungi. The word originates from the Greek basidion, meaning little pedestal.

Definition

Basidia are specialized spore-producing cells found in certain fungi, including the large group known as Basidiomycetes. They are typically club-shaped and are where sexual spores known as Basidiospores are produced.

Function

The primary function of the basidia is to produce spores. These spores are produced externally on the basidia, typically at the end of sterigmata, small outgrowths on the basidia. Once mature, the spores are released and can go on to form new fungi.

Types of Basidia

There are several types of basidia, including:

• Septate Basidia: These basidia have one or more septa, or dividing walls, which can help to strengthen the basidia and prevent it from collapsing.

• Long Basidia: These are elongated basidia, which are often found in certain types of rust fungi and smut fungi.

• Tunica Basidia: These basidia have a protective outer layer, or tunica, which can help to protect the developing spores.

Related Terms

• Mycelium: The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments (hyphae).
• Hypha: Each of the branching filaments that make up the mycelium of a fungus.
• Sporulation: The process of spore formation in fungi.

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