Exogenously Produced Sexual Spores in Fungi

Sexual spores are reproductive structures produced by fungi through sexual reproduction. These spores are produced through the fusion of two compatible haploid cells, resulting in a diploid zygote that undergoes meiosis to produce four haploid spores. In some fungi, sexual spores are produced endogenously, meaning they are formed within specialized structures inside the fungal body. However, in some other fungi, sexual spores are produced exogenously, meaning they are formed outside the fungal body.

Fungi that Produce Exogenously Produced Sexual Spores

Two examples of fungi that produce exogenously produced sexual spores are Agaricus and Puccinia. Let us understand these fungi in detail.

Agaricus: Agaricus is a genus of mushrooms that belong to the family Agaricaceae. These mushrooms are commonly found in temperate regions and are commonly cultivated for food. Agaricus mushrooms produce exogenously produced sexual spores in their basidia, which are specialized structures that contain the spores. The basidia are arranged in gills on the underside of the mushroom cap, and when the spores mature, they are released into the air.

Puccinia: Puccinia is a genus of rust fungi that are parasitic on plants. These fungi have complex life cycles that involve multiple hosts and produce exogenously produced sexual spores in specialized structures called aecia. These structures are formed on the leaves of the plant host and produce the spores, which are then released into the air to infect other plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exogenously produced sexual spores are present in Agaricus and Puccinia. These spores are produced outside the fungal body and are released into the air to facilitate dispersal and reproduction. Understanding the different modes of spore production in fungi can help in identifying and controlling fungal diseases and in the cultivation of edible and medicinal fungi.

Sexual spores are mainly produced by fungi (exception of yeast) in option B both the organisms belong to kingdom fungi