ASCOSPORE Meaning and
Definition
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An ascospore is a sexual spore that is produced by fungi belonging to the phylum Ascomycota. It is characterized by its formation within a specialized sac-like structure called an ascus. Ascospores are typically produced during the reproductive phase of the fungal life cycle known as the sexual reproduction, or the sexual stage.
The ascus, which is the site of ascospore formation, serves as a protective structure for the developing spores. It usually contains a specific number of ascospores, which varies depending on the species and the conditions in which the spores are formed. Once the ascospores have fully matured, the ascus may rupture, releasing the spores into the surrounding environment.
Ascospores are essential for the dispersal and survival of fungi. They play a crucial role in the colonization of new habitats, as well as the dispersal within existing ones. The dispersal of ascospores can occur through various means, including wind, water, and the activities of animals or insects.
Due to their unique characteristics and importance in the life cycle of Ascomycota fungi, ascospores have attracted significant scientific interest. They have been extensively studied for the purpose of taxonomy, classification, and identification of fungal species. Additionally, ascospores have been utilized in various industrial applications, such as in the production of bioactive compounds, enzymes, and pharmaceuticals.
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One of a number of spores contained in a sac or bag.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ASCOSPORE
- zscospore
- sscospore
- wscospore
- qscospore
- aacospore
- azcospore
- axcospore
- adcospore
- awcospore
- asxospore
- asvospore
- asfospore
- asdospore
- ascispore
- asckspore
- asclspore
- ascpspore
- asc0spore
- asc9spore
- sacospore
Etymology of ASCOSPORE
The word "ascospore" has its roots in the combination of two Greek words: "askos", meaning "sac" or "bag", and "spora", meaning "spore". The term was coined by the German botanist Heinrich Anton de Bary in 1863 to specifically refer to the spores produced within the ascus, a sac-like structure found in certain fungi, particularly the ascomycetes. So, "ascospore" essentially describes the spores that develop inside an ascus.
Similar spelling words for ASCOSPORE
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