Hyphae

Hyphae are long, branching filamentous structures of fungi. They are the main mode of vegetative growth, and are collectively called a mycelium.

Structure

Hyphae are made up of one or more cells surrounded by a tubular cell wall. In most fungi, hyphae are divided into cells by internal cross-walls called "septa". Each cell may contain one or more nuclei, and the cells may be further divided into compartments by additional cross-walls. Some fungi have "coenocytic" hyphae, which are not divided into separate cells, and their nuclei are spread throughout the hyphae, not confined within cells.

Function

Hyphae grow at their tips. During the growth, they secrete enzymes to break down the organic material in which they are embedded for absorption into the hyphae. The way hyphae grow is used by the fungus to reproduce and spread into new territories.

Types of Hyphae

There are three main types of hyphae: generative hyphae, binding hyphae, and skeletal hyphae. Generative hyphae are thin, short, and they are highly branched and septate. They are responsible for the growth and development of the fungus. Binding hyphae are thick, long, and have few branches. They provide structural support. Skeletal hyphae are very thick, long, and have few or no septa. They are responsible for the major part of the mycelium's biomass.

See Also

• Mycelium
• Fungi
• Septa

Hyphae Resources
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