TELEUTOSPORE Meaning and
Definition
-
A teleutospore is a specialized fungal spore that serves a crucial role in the life cycle of certain plant pathogenic fungi known as rusts. Rusts are fungal diseases that often affect agricultural crops, ornamental plants, and trees, causing significant economic and aesthetic damage.
Teleutospores are the final stage of the rust fungus lifecycle, representing the resting or overwintering spores. These spores are typically dark-colored and thick-walled, enabling them to withstand adverse environmental conditions, such as cold temperatures or drought.
Teleutospores are produced within structures called telia, which are usually found on the infected plant's leaves, stems, or other parts. When the environmental conditions are favorable, teleutospores germinate, giving rise to another stage of the rust fungus lifecycle called the basidium. Basidiospores are subsequently produced from the basidia and serve as the primary means of fungal dispersal, often carried long distances by wind or other agents.
The primary function of teleutospores is to ensure the survival of the rust fungus during unfavorable conditions. By producing thick-walled spores, the fungus can remain dormant for extended periods until conditions become more favorable for growth and infection. Hence, teleutospores play a vital role in maintaining the persistence and spread of rust fungi, making them significant from a plant pathology perspective.
Common Misspellings for TELEUTOSPORE
Etymology of TELEUTOSPORE
The word "teleutospore" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "teleuté" meaning "end" or "completion", and "spora" meaning "seed" or "sowing". In the context of mycology (a branch of biology that deals with fungi), a teleutospore refers to a resting or overwintering spore produced by some fungi that causes plant diseases, particularly rust fungi. The term "teleutospore" was coined in the mid-19th century, combining these Greek roots to describe the specialized spore's role in the fungal life cycle.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
