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Life Cycle of a Fungus

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Life Cycle of a Fungus

The kingdom fungi includes yeasts, molds and mushrooms. Fungi are eukaryotic, meaning their cells contain nuclei and are similar to plant, protist and animal cells. Fungal reproduction varies; however, the general pattern of germination, vegetative growth and spore production is common to virtually all fungi.

  1. Germination

    • A fungal spore is a single cell. If it finds itself in a suitable environment, it germinates to begin vegetative growth.

    Vegetative Growth

    • Yeasts grow vegetatively by budding, wherein "daughter" cells bud from "mother" cells. In other fungi, the basic vegetative cell type is the hypha, which is filamentous and tube-like.

    Sporulation

    • When conditions are right, spore-producing structures develop from the vegetative phase. Spores are released into the environment to begin the life cycle again.

    Asexual Reproduction

    • Many fungi, especially molds, are capable of generating spores without mating. These spores are produced by mitosis, creating individuals identical to the parent.

    Sexual Reproduction

    • Sexual reproduction and meiosis can occur between compatible individuals. Meiotic spores are genetically variable, possessing traits from both parents.

    Fragmentation

    • Some fungi have lost the ability to produce spores. These species reproduce by disseminating hyphae that are easily fragmented and carried away.

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  • Photo Credit Mushrooms produce spores on their gills (Michael Kensinger)

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