Conidia are asexual, non-motile spores of fungi that are produced externally on specialized structures called conidiophores. They play a crucial role in the reproduction and dispersion of various fungal species.
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Conidia are responsible for asexual reproduction in many fungi, allowing rapid propagation without the need for sexual recombination.
They are typically formed on the tips or sides of specialized fungal structures known as conidiophores.
Conidia vary widely in size, shape, color, and septation (the presence of cross-walls within the spore).
These spores are often disseminated by air currents, water, or living organisms, facilitating widespread dispersal.
In some pathogenic fungi, conidia can be infectious agents that contribute to disease spread.
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Related terms
Conidiophore: A specialized fungal structure that produces and supports conidia.
Sporangium: A structure found in some fungi where spores are produced by mitosis or meiosis.