Spore
Spore
Spore (/spɔːr/) is a term used in the field of biology to refer to a unit of sexual or asexual reproduction that may be adapted for dispersal and for survival, often for extended periods of time, in unfavorable conditions. Spores form part of the life cycles of many plants, algae, fungi and some protozoa.
Etymology
The term "spore" derives from the ancient Greek word σπορά (sporá) for "sowing," related to σπόρος (spóros), "sowing," and σπείρειν (speírein), "to sow."
Types of Spores
In the context of spore formation in bacteria, a spore is an asexual reproductive structure produced by certain bacteria, fungi, algae, and plants. They are typically single-celled and have dense, protective walls, helping them to resist damage.
Bacterial Spores
Bacterial spores are a protective structure, perfect for surviving in harsh conditions. These spores are formed by certain bacteria when nutrients are scarce.
Fungal Spores
Fungal spores are produced by fungi and can be carried by air or water to new locations. They are usually single-celled and have a protective wall.
Plant Spores
Plant spores are asexual reproductive structures produced by non-flowering plants including ferns and mosses.
Related Terms
- Endospore: A dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structure produced by certain bacteria from the Firmicute phylum.
- Zygospore: A diploid reproductive stage in the life cycle of many fungi and protists.
- Sporogenesis: The process of spore formation.
- Sporangium: An enclosure in which spores are formed.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spore
- Wikipedia's article - Spore
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski