Covers heterothallism requiring two genetically different strains for sexual reproduction, mating type systems (bipolar: Plus/Minus; tetrapolar: A/B loci), three-stage process (plasmogamy, karyogamy, meiosis), genetic diversity promotion, prevention of self-fertilization, and examples from various fungal phyla.
Explains heterokaryosis as condition of multiple genetically distinct haploid nuclei in shared cytoplasm, formation mechanisms (anastomosis, mutation, dikaryosis), role as substitute for heterozygosity in haploid fungi, physiological flexibility, parasexual cycle involvement, and pathogenic implications in disease development.
Explores mycorrhizal symbiosis between fungi and plant roots (>90% plant species), mutualistic benefits, two main types (endomycorrhiza/arbuscular and ectomycorrhiza), nutrient and water acquisition mechanisms, soil health improvement, nutrient cycling, drought tolerance, and the “wood wide web” for inter-plant communication.
Details the parasexual cycle in imperfect fungi (Ascomycota), including four stages: heterokaryosis, karyogamy, mitotic crossing-over, and haploidization. Explains genetic recombination mechanisms without true meiosis, its role in generating genetic variation, industrial applications in antibiotic production, and pathogenic implications.
Covers diverse fungal reproduction methods including asexual reproduction via spores (sporangiospores, conidia, chlamydospores), fragmentation, budding, and sexual reproduction mechanisms varying across fungal groups, emphasizing genetic diversity and adaptive strategies for different environmental conditions.