Chapter 20, Problem 22A

Summary Introduction

To write: The type of fungus that reproduces asexually and its process.

Introduction: In the Kingdom Fungi belong some of the largest and oldest species on Earth. There is a honey fungus in eastern Oregon that is so large it's called the "Humongous Fungus." Many of the fungi are heterotrophic eukaryotes. There are over 100,000 species of fungi.

Explanation of Solution

Ascomycota reproduces asexually. During asexual reproduction, the spores are formed at the tips of the hyphae. These spore-producing hyphae are called condiophores and the spores they generate are called condia. Instead of forming inside sporangia, conidia form externally at the tips of the condiophores. These spores are dispersed easily by wind, water, and animals.

Conclusion

Phylum Ascomycota contains more species than any other phylum of fungi. Species found in this phylum are referred to as Ascomycetes or sac fungi.