Chlamydospores: Nature’s Survival Spores in Fungi and Alga

Introduction

Table of Contents

Chlamydospores are thick-walled, asexual, resting spores produced by certain fungi and algae, functioning as survival structures under adverse conditions, and are capable of developing into new individuals without sexual fusion.

What are they?

Chlamydospores are thick-walled, asexual spores that are formed by certain fungi and algae.

Function

They serve as survival structures, allowing the fungus to endure harsh environmental conditions like nutrient deficiency or desiccation.

Formation

They develop from hyphal cells or conidia, where the cell wall thickens and the cytoplasm becomes packed with lipid reserves.

Appearance

They can be globose or ovoid and may be pigmented or hyaline.

Fig. Chlamydospores of Candida albicans in LPCB preparation of growth on cornmeal agar (CMA)

Examples

Chlamydospores are found in various fungi, including Candida albicans, Rhizopus microsporus, and Fusarium species.

Significance:

While their exact role in the life cycle of many fungi is still being investigated, chlamydospores are considered essential for survival and persistence in the environment.

How they are produced:
Hyphal cells: They can form from existing hyphal cells that develop a thick wall.
Conidia: They can also form from conidia, asexual spores produced by some fungi.
Fragmentation: Some fungi produce chlamydospores by the fragmentation of hyphae into compartments separated by septa.

Survival

Chlamydospores are resistant to unfavorable conditions and can germinate when conditions become favorable. Examples of fungi that produce are

Chlamydospores: Nature’s Survival Spores in Fungi and Algae-Structure, Function, and Formation Under Adverse Conditions