What is the term for the hyphal tip used by parasitic fungi to penetrate a host's tissue?

Prepare for the DIVE Biology Quarterly Exam 2 with multiple choice questions, flashcards, hints, and explanations. Strengthen your understanding and ace your upcoming test!

The term used to describe the specialized structure that parasitic fungi employ to penetrate a host's tissue is "haustoria." These structures are remarkable adaptations that enable the fungi to invade host cells and absorb nutrients directly from the host's cytoplasm. Haustoria are crucial for the survival and growth of parasitic fungi, allowing them to exploit their hosts effectively.

In contrast, sporangiophores are structures that produce spores, which are important for reproduction rather than host penetration. Rhizoids serve primarily as supportive structures that anchor fungi and help in nutrient absorption from the substrate, but they do not penetrate host tissues. Sporophores, on the other hand, are involved in the production and dispersal of spores, again playing a different role than that of penetrating host tissue. Understanding these distinct structures helps clarify the roles they play in the life cycle of fungi and their interactions with other organisms.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy