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sclerotization

sclerotization

9.9
Some fungi form hard resting bodies to survive bad conditions
  • noun
  • /ˌsklɛrəˈtaɪzeɪʃən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : esclerotización
  • During periods of drought, the fungus undergoes sclerotization to protect itself until conditions improve.

Examples

  • The ability for rapid sclerotization helps some fungi survive in harsh environments.

  • Researchers observed the sclerotization process in several species of soil fungi under laboratory conditions.

  • The process of sclerotization helps fungi survive harsh conditions.

  • During sclerotization, fungi develop hard structures.

  • During periods of drought, the fungus undergoes sclerotization to protect itself until conditions improve.

  • Researchers observed the sclerotization process in several species of soil fungi under laboratory conditions.

  • The ability for rapid sclerotization helps some fungi survive in harsh environments.

How Hard

sclerotization
  • Specialized
9.9
hardening
1 4.6
fragility
17 5.2

Surface Forms

Morphology

sclerotization = sclerotize (opaque) = sclerot + ize + ation

The verb 'sclerotize' is a specialized technical term derived from a Greek combining form, so its structure is not transparent to average learners.

Etymology

Sclerotization comes from the root scler- which means 'hard', the same root in sclerosis. In fungi, sclerotization is when the fungus makes hard resting bodies called sclerotia that help it survive bad conditions.