A cell capable of developing into a gametophyte; analogous to a phanerogam seed.
The resting stage in the growth cycle of certain bacteria (rod shaped) which are resistant to heat and chemicals. In the case of yeast and molds, spores are considered reproductive bodies since many spores are produced by one organism.
The reproducing grains of cryptogams.
Single celled, reproductive structure produced by ferns and other plants that do not produce flowers, fruit, or seeds (ferns, club mosses, and spike mosses).
The microscopic reproductive and dispersive unit of a fungus.
The reproductive cell of a non-flowering plant.
The equivalent of a seed in nonflowering plants such as ferns and fungi. Much tinier than seeds, they are produced in great numbers and blow about on the wind.
A reproductive body of particular bacteria and fungi which can survive in extremely hot or cold conditions for a long time.
The reproductive elements of lower organisms, such as protozoa, fungi, and cryptogamic plants.
The equivalent of a seed in non-flowering plants such as ferns and fungi. Much tinier than seeds, they are produced in great numbers and blow about on the wind.
The reproductive element of fungi and certain bacteria.
A small reproductive body produced by plants and microorganisms. Some kinds of spores function as dormant stages of the life cycle, enabling the organism to survive adverse conditions. Other spores are the means by which the organism can spread vegetatively.
Part of the lifecycle of certain bacteria when their metabolism falls to a low level. The spore is resistant to changes in the environment such as extremes of temperature, and when these are unfavourable, the spore remains dormant; when they improve, it starts to grow. Certain dangerous bacteria, such as clostridium, produce resistant spores, so sterilization procedures need to be very effective.
A cell produced by fungi for reproduction. Spores may remain dormant yet viable for months. Cooking destroys spores, but pathogenic spores are usually inhaled rather than ingested.
The small reproductive body, usually one-celled, found in primitive plants such as mosses, fungi and ferns.
The bacteria, such as anthrax, can adopt a dormant state which allows them to endure extended periods of high temperatures, dryness, and scarcity of nutrients. In favorable circumstances, these spores have the potential to transition back into the actively reproducing form of the bacteria.
A reproductive cell originating from a microorganism or plant. Typically, this cell possesses a sturdy outer wall that allows it to remain dormant and endure harsh conditions for extended periods. When conditions become favorable for its development, the spore sheds its protective covering and resumes growth, even after a prolonged period of dormancy.