SPOROPHORE Meaning and
Definition
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A sporophore is a specialized reproductive structure found in some organisms, particularly in fungi. It is a significant part of the life cycle of these organisms as it plays a crucial role in the dispersal and production of spores.
Sporophores are typically produced by fungi during the reproductive phase. They appear as distinct structures that grow from the mycelium, which is the vegetative, thread-like part of the fungus. The main purpose of the sporophore is to bear and release spores, which are microscopic reproductive cells that are capable of giving rise to new individuals or organisms.
The morphology of sporophores can vary greatly among different fungi species. They can range from being simple and small, like the fruiting bodies of some yeasts, to being complex and large, like the mushrooms seen in many macrofungi. Sporophores can take on various shapes, colors, and textures. They often possess distinct features, such as caps, stems, gills, pores, or spines, which aid in spore dispersal.
The release of spores from sporophores is typically facilitated by wind, water, animals, or other environmental factors. The dispersed spores have the potential to germinate and develop into new fungal individuals when they find suitable growth conditions.
In summary, a sporophore is a reproductive structure found in certain fungi, responsible for the formation, dispersal, and release of spores. Its diverse forms and functions contribute to the reproductive success and survival of these organisms.
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1. In botany, the part which bears the seeds or spores. 2. Sporophyte.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A stalk supporting a spore.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SPOROPHORE
- aporophore
- zporophore
- xporophore
- dporophore
- eporophore
- wporophore
- soorophore
- slorophore
- s-orophore
- s0orophore
- spirophore
- spkrophore
- splrophore
- spprophore
- sp0rophore
- sp9rophore
- spoeophore
- spodophore
- spofophore
Etymology of SPOROPHORE
The word "sporophore" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "sporo-" and "-phore".
1. "Sporo-" comes from the Greek word "sporos" (σπορος), meaning "seed" or "spore". This root is often used in reference to reproductive structures or processes in plants and fungi.
2. "-Phore" also has a Greek origin, derived from the word "phoros" (φορος), which can be roughly translated to "carrier" or "bearer". It is often used to denote a structure or organism that carries or supports something else.
Combining these two roots, "sporophore" essentially means a structure that bears or carries spores.
Similar spelling words for SPOROPHORE
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