zygospore

[ zahy-guh-spawr, -spohr, zig-uh- ]

noun

, Botany, Mycology.

1. a cell formed by fusion of two similar gametes, as in certain algae and fungi.

zygospore

/ ˈzɪɡ-; ˈzaɪɡəʊˌspɔː /

noun

1. a thick-walled sexual spore formed from the zygote of some fungi and algae

zygospore

/ zī′gə-spôr′,zĭg′ə- /

1. A large, multinucleate spore formed by union of isogametes (gametes that are not distinguished by size and structure), as in certain algae or fungi. A zygospore develops thick, resistant walls and enters a period of dormancy before germinating.

Derived Forms

• ˌzygoˈsporic, adjective

Other Words From

• zy·go·spor·ic [zahy-g, uh, -, spawr, -ik, -, spor, -, zig-, uh, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of zygospore¹

First recorded in 1860–65; zygo- + -spore

Example Sentences

Different stages in the formation and germination of the zygospore.

From Project Gutenberg

During this formation of the zygospore, the two arched cells whence the zygospore originated develop a series of dichotomous processes in close proximity to the walls which separate them from the zygospore.

From Project Gutenberg

These free-swimming cells, which apparently are formed only to reunite with each other, are called zoöspores, while the organism which results from their fusion is known as a zygospore.

From Project Gutenberg

After a long period of rest, this zygospore allows the whole of its contents to escape as a swarm-spore, which after a time secretes a gelatinous wall, and by division reproduces the sixteen-celled family.

From Project Gutenberg

After its formation the zygospore still increases considerably in size, and acquires a diameter of more than one-fifth of a millimetre.

From Project Gutenberg