What is the characteristic of fungi classified in the Phylum Zygomycota?

Fungi classified in the Phylum Zygomycota are primarily known for reproducing through structures called zygospores. Zygospores are thick-walled, resistant spores that form when different mating types of the fungus undergo sexual reproduction. This process occurs when hyphae from two compatible mating types meet and fuse, leading to the formation of a zygosporangium, where the zygospore develops. This characteristic is central to their life cycle and distinguishes them from other fungal groups that may reproduce differently.

While some fungi can have prominent fruiting bodies or establish mutualistic relationships, these features are not typical of Zygomycota. Additionally, although some fungi in different phyla are unicellular, Zygomycota largely includes multicellular filamentous organisms, so this does not accurately describe their key characteristics. Therefore, the defining feature of reproduction through zygospores is what sets Zygomycota apart from other fungal phyla.