- What is spore formation?
- Draw a diagram showing spore formation in Rhizopus.
- List two advantages for organisms to reproduce themselves through spores.
Spore Formation: Seen in Rhizopus (a fungus). Rhizopus body is made up of thread like structures called hyphae. The erect hyphae bear sporangia inside which reproductive structures called spores are formed. Spores are asexually reproducing bodies having a thick protective wall. They are produced during unfavourable times and help to tide over the unfavourable environmental conditions. When the spores fall on suitable medium, each one forms a new individual.
Advantages:
- Spores resist during unfavourable conditions. They do not damage.
- On coming favourable conditions, cyst wall burst and spore germinates to form a new plant.