Zygomycetes is a
class of fungi
that is found commonly as the mould growing on breads or the white feather-like mould that grows on many fruits like strawberries and grapes. This class of fungi is mainly terrestrial and very diverse, with more than a 1000 varieties. They are either parasitic or form symbiotic reationships and live anywhere from the leaves and branches of trees to the intestinal tract of humans. They are even known to survive by getting nutrition from dead and decaying plant material.
This class of fungi is unique in that they can reproduce sexually and form zygospores by the fusion of two spores. They are capable of asexual reproduction as well where the released spores are carried by wind for pollination. Some of them form special light-sensitive cells which shoot out spres in a particular direction for greater chances of success in pollination.
Zygomycetes are sometimes also known as pin moulds and sugar moulds. When seen under a microscope, they look like pins, with a thread-like body and a rounded structure at one end. The name sugar moulds is because of their choice of habitat. They prefer to grow in sugar-rich habitats like breads, fruits, etc. And break down these substances for nutrition.
This fungi is present all around us and is not generally very ahrmful, but affects those with low immunity and those prone to infections.
Zygomycosis
This is a rather rare infection caused by the zygomycetes fungi. It usually affects the gastrointestinal tract or skin, but may affect other parts as well. It may also refer to mucormycosis, a disease that affects mostly the face or the oropharyngeral cavity and can be fatal.
This infection is one of the fastest spreading infections in humans.
Uses
Although zygomycetes can cause infections, they are not very common. Infact, this class of fungi is very useful in some areas and is frequently used in many processes.
- Controlled fermentation of foods: used for centuries in controlled fermentation of curd, etc.
- Production of medications: grown in controlled conditions to be used in the production of medications like steroids.
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