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Glite Dictionary
basidiospore

basidiospore

9.9
A tiny spore produced by some mushrooms to make a new fungus
  • noun
  • /bəˌsɪdiəˈspɔr/
  • Specialized
translation icon : basidiospora
  • The fungus produces a type of spore—a basidiospore—that can be spread from plant to plant by wind or splashing water.

Examples

  • The mushroom releases its basidiospore into the air to ensure reproduction.

  • Under the microscope, the basidiospore was clearly visible, showcasing its unique structure.

  • During the life cycle of the fungus, the basidiospore plays a crucial role in its sexual reproduction.

Surface Forms

basidiospore singular
basidiospores plural

Morphology

basidiospore = spore (semi-transparent) = basidio + spore

The element 'spore' makes clear that this is a type of spore, but 'basidio' is a technical combining form (from basidium) that is not transparent to average learners.

Etymology

Basidiospore combines basidium and spore. Basidium means 'small base' and spore means 'seed' or a tiny unit that makes a new fungus, so a basidiospore is the spore that forms on the little base of certain fungi.