How does spore formation take place in Rhizopus?

Spore formation in Rhizopus (a type of mold) occurs through asexual reproduction, specifically via the formation of sporangia that contain spores. Here’s how the process takes place:

  1. Formation of Hyphae: Rhizopus starts as a mycelium, which consists of a network of thread-like structures called hyphae. These hyphae grow and spread out in the substrate (such as decaying organic matter).

  2. Development of Sporangium: On the tips of some hyphae, specialized structures called sporangiophores emerge. The sporangiophores are stalk-like structures that grow upwards.

  3. Mature Sporangium: At the tip of each sporangiophore, a sporangium forms. The sporangium is a sac-like structure that contains a large number of spores.

  4. Spore Formation: Inside the sporangium, the cell divides by mitosis to form numerous haploid spores. These spores are genetically identical to the parent organism.

  5. Release of Spores: Once the sporangium matures, it bursts open, releasing the spores into the air. The spores are carried by wind, water, or animals to new locations.

  6. Germination: When the spores land in a suitable environment, they germinate, producing new hyphae and developing into new Rhizopus individuals, continuing the cycle.

Related Questions:

  1. Name the types of asexual reproduction in bacteria and protists.
  2. Name the types of vegetative propagation in plants.
  3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of vegetative propagation?
  4. What is double fertilization?
  5. Write the differences between:
  6. Draw and label a typical flower.
  7. State the contribution of Theophrastus in the discovery of sex in plants.
  8. Name the conditions necessary for seed germination.
  9. Name some ripened ovaries and ovules eaten in daily life.
  10. What is growth in the human population and its effects?
  11. Write a short note on the third whorl of a flower.
  12. Briefly explain binary fission in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and invertebrates.
  13. What are the adaptations in insect-pollinated flowers for cross-pollination?
  14. Explain budding in yeast.
  15. How is parthenogenesis a type of asexual reproduction?
  16. State the role of the National AIDS Control Program and different NGOs in educating people about AIDS in Pakistan.
  17. The following is a diagram of an ovule of flowering plants:
  18. The photograph shows the pollination on a flower.
  19. Describe different types of asexual reproduction in plants.
  20. Describe artificial propagation in plants.