Difference between zygomycota and ascomycota

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Let me share with you a Let me share with you a dfference between zygomycota and ascomycota.

AspectZygomycota Ascomycota
Reproductive structureZygosporesAscospores
Sexual ReproductionInvolves the formation of zygosporangiaInvolves the formation of asci within ascomycete fruiting bodies (ascocarps)
Asexual ReproductionSporangia producing sporangiosporesConidia produced on conidiophores or specialized structures (e.g., pycnidia)
Spore DispersalSpores are often dispersed by air currents or mechanical meansAscospores may be forcibly discharged or dispersed by various means, depending on the species
HabitatTerrestrialDiverse habitats, including terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments
Hyphal StructureCoenocytic hyphae (lack septa)Septate hyphae (cross-walls present), but some may have coenocytic hyphae
Associations with PlantsMycorrhizal associations are less commonMany form mycorrhizal associations with plants, aiding in nutrient absorption
Examples·        Rhizopus

·        Mucor

·        Pilobolus

·        Aspergillus

·        Penicillium

·        Saccharomyces

Economic Importance·        Some are used in the production of fermented foods e.g., tempeh·        Used in food production e.g., baking, brewing

·        Antibiotics (Penicillium)

·        Biotechnology