How do Zygospores Contribute to the Spread of Fungal Diseases?
Zygospores contribute to the spread of fungal diseases through several mechanisms:
1. Environmental Persistence: The thick walls of zygospores protect them from desiccation, UV radiation, and other environmental stresses, enabling them to survive in soil, water, and on various surfaces for long periods. 2. Dispersal: Zygospores can be dispersed by wind, water, and animal vectors, facilitating the spread of fungi over large distances. 3. Germination: When conditions become favorable, zygospores germinate to produce hyphae, which can invade host tissues and cause infections.
