Zygomycota (paraphyletic)
Conjugated Fungi
Taxonomic Classification
Overview
Zygomycota (now recognized as paraphyletic and divided into Mucoromycota and Zoopagomycota) represents an ancient lineage of fungi, primarily known as bread molds and soil fungi. These organisms are characterized by their coenocytic hyphae (lacking septa) and formation of zygospores during sexual reproduction. Most are fast-growing saprotrophs, though some form beneficial associations with plants or are parasites.
Key Characteristics
- Coenocytic (non-septate) hyphae in most species
- Sexual reproduction produces thick-walled zygospores
- Asexual reproduction via sporangia producing sporangiospores
- Mostly terrestrial, some aquatic species
- Often fast-growing and opportunistic
- Generally lack flagellated cells
Ecological Role
Primarily decomposers of organic matter, particularly in soil environments. Some species form endomycorrhizal associations with plant roots. Others are parasites of small soil animals, insects, or other fungi. Important in nutrient cycling and soil ecosystem functioning.
Diversity
Approximately 1,000-1,500 described species in former Zygomycota grouping
Reproduction
Sexual reproduction involves fusion of specialized hyphae to form a zygosporangium containing a zygospore. Asexual reproduction is more common, producing sporangiospores in sporangia on aerial hyphae.
Distribution
Worldwide in soil, organic debris, and as decomposers; some species in aquatic environments
Notable Features
- Include common bread molds (Rhizopus species)
- Fast colonizers of nutrient-rich substrates
- Some species produce fermented foods (tempeh)
- Include both beneficial and pathogenic species
- Some are important in traditional Asian fermented foods
- Certain species cause mucormycosis in immunocompromised individuals
Economic Importance
- Food fermentation (tempeh production)
- Organic waste decomposition
- Some species cause food spoilage
- Emerging opportunistic human pathogens
- Plant growth promotion in agriculture
Example Species
Explore representative species from Zygomycota (paraphyletic) that demonstrate the diversity and importance of this phylum.
Black Bread Mold
Rhizopus stolonifer
Rhizopus stolonifer is the familiar black mold that appears on bread and other starchy foods left at room temperature. T...
Common Mucor
Mucor mucedo
Mucor mucedo is a widespread saprotrophic fungus found in soil, plant debris, and stored foods. With its characteristic ...
Dung Cannon
Pilobolus crystallinus
Pilobolus crystallinus is a remarkable fungus with one of nature's most sophisticated spore dispersal mechanisms. Growin...
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus
Funneliformis mosseae (formerly Glomus mosseae)
Funneliformis mosseae (previously Glomus mosseae) is one of the most well-studied arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. It ...