CONIDIOPHORE Meaning and
Definition
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A conidiophore is a specialized structure found in fungi that is responsible for the production and dispersal of asexual spores known as conidia. These spores are involved in the reproduction and survival of the fungus. Conidiophores typically arise from the mycelium, the filamentous network of hyphae, and are typically visible to the naked eye.
Conidiophores are characterized by their distinctive shape and structure, which can vary depending on the species of fungus. They often consist of a stalk-like structure called the stipe, which supports one or more inflated structures called the vesicle. From the vesicle, chains of conidia are formed, each attached to a specialized structure known as the phialide. The phialides release the conidia into the environment, from where they can be dispersed and colonize new areas.
The formation of conidiophores is influenced by environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity. They can be produced by various fungal species, including both plant and human pathogens. Conidiophores play a crucial role in the life cycle of fungi, allowing them to reproduce quickly and effectively in asexual conditions, providing an advantage for their survival in diverse habitats.
Understanding the structure and function of conidiophores is of considerable importance in the study of fungal biology, epidemiology, and targeting them as potential targets for antifungal treatments.
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The mycelial stalk of a fungus which bears conidia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CONIDIOPHORE
- xonidiophore
- vonidiophore
- fonidiophore
- donidiophore
- cinidiophore
- cknidiophore
- clnidiophore
- cpnidiophore
- c0nidiophore
- c9nidiophore
- cobidiophore
- comidiophore
- cojidiophore
- cohidiophore
- conudiophore
- conjdiophore
- conkdiophore
- conodiophore
- con9diophore
Etymology of CONIDIOPHORE
The word "conidiophore" is derived from combining two Latin words: "conidium" meaning "dust" or "spore" and "phora" meaning "bearer" or "carrier". In Latin, "conidium" is the singular form of "conidia", which refers to asexual spores produced by certain fungi. Therefore, "conidiophore" can be understood as "spore bearer" or "spore carrier".
Similar spelling words for CONIDIOPHORE
