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

The zygospore thus formed germinates after a long period and forms a new filament of cells.

From Project Gutenberg

During all these changes, while the zygospore enlarges, the wall of the arcuate cells becomes coloured brown.

From Project Gutenberg

The product of the union of two zygoblasts is termed a zygospore.

From Project Gutenberg