Deuteromycota

Deuteromycota is a polyphyletic group of fungi, also known as imperfect fungi due to their lack of a sexual stage in their life cycle. This group includes some of the most common fungi, many of which are of great medical and economic importance.

Classification

The classification of Deuteromycota is controversial and has been subject to frequent revision. Traditionally, they were considered a division (phylum) of the kingdom Fungi, but molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that they do not form a single clade. Instead, they are distributed among several different groups within the subkingdom Dikarya.

Characteristics

Deuteromycota are characterized by a lack of a sexual stage in their life cycle, which is why they are often referred to as "imperfect fungi". They reproduce asexually, primarily through the production of conidia, which are asexual spores. Some species also reproduce through budding.

Economic and Medical Importance

Many species of Deuteromycota are of great economic and medical importance. They include plant pathogens, such as those causing Dutch elm disease and chestnut blight, as well as human pathogens, such as those causing athlete's foot and ringworm. Some species are used in industry, for example in the production of antibiotics, enzymes, and fermented foods.

See Also

• Fungi
• Mycology
• Pathogenic fungi

References

Deuteromycota Resources
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