Sexual Reproduction of Asperigillius

In summary, the sexual reproduction of Aspergillus involves a unique process known as dikaryon, where two sexually compatible haploid nuclei pair off and divide, eventually leading to diploid nuclei through meiosis. This process is a part of the organism's whole life form or holomorph, which includes both sexual and asexual life cycles. For more information, the Characteristics of Teleomorphs section in http://www.mycolog.com/CHAP4a.htm is a good resource to start with.
  • #1
chound
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Can some one explain sexual reproduction of Asperigillius especially the part about dikaryons.
 
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  • #2
This is not a simple process.. If your text does not offer a good description. As good place to start reading is under Characteristics of Teleomorphs found in this http://www.mycolog.com/CHAP4a.htm. Aspergillus has a teleomorphic (sexual) as well as anamorphic (asexual) life cycle, both together comprise the whole life form or holomorph.

I'll attempt to condense the concept, in the following:

The teleomorphs exhibit a unique nuclear phenomenon called the dikaryon. After sexually compatible nuclei from different mycelia, have been brought together by anastomosis (fusing of two hyphae), these nuclei pair off, but don't fuse immediately to form a diploid (2N) zygote. Instead, they go on dividing to form what are called dikaryotic hyphae, in which each compartment (cell) has two sexually compatible haploid (1N) nuclei. These 2 haploid nuclei will eventually fuse after further development, into diploid (2N) nuclei which is followed by meiosis where the genome finally has the chance to be reshuffled (just like meiosis in ordinary sexual reproduction).

glossary:
hypha is threadlike fungal filament, (plural - hyphae).
mycelium is a mass of hyphae (plural - mycelium)
 
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  • #3
glossary:
mycelium is a mass of hyphae (plural - mycelium)
sorry for my typo, plural of mycelium is mycelia

While I'm on typos, it appears you made one in the spelling of this organism. The actual spelling of this genus is Aspergillus and it includes over 185 species. The teleomorphic stage has only been observed in some of these species. That doesn't mean they don't exist, just that no-one has found evidence yet).
 
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1. What is the process of sexual reproduction in Aspergillus?

The sexual reproduction of Aspergillus is a type of fungi that involves the fusion of two haploid cells, one from each parent, to form a diploid zygote. This process is known as fertilization and results in the formation of a new individual with a unique genetic makeup.

2. How does Aspergillus reproduce sexually?

Aspergillus reproduces sexually through the fusion of two specialized structures called gametangia. These structures contain haploid cells, known as gametes, which fuse together to form a diploid zygote. The zygote then develops and grows into a new individual.

3. What is the role of spores in the sexual reproduction of Aspergillus?

Spores play a crucial role in the sexual reproduction of Aspergillus. These microscopic structures are produced by the sporangia, which are specialized structures that contain the haploid cells. Spores are responsible for dispersing the genetic material of Aspergillus, allowing it to reproduce and colonize new areas.

4. How does the sexual reproduction of Aspergillus contribute to its survival?

The sexual reproduction of Aspergillus is important for its survival as it allows for genetic diversity within the species. This diversity increases the chances of survival in changing environments and helps Aspergillus adapt to new conditions. Additionally, the production and dispersal of spores ensure the spread of Aspergillus to new areas, increasing its chances of survival.

5. Can Aspergillus reproduce asexually as well?

Yes, Aspergillus has the ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction occurs through the production and dispersal of spores, while sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes. Both methods contribute to the survival and spread of Aspergillus in different environments.

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