Micro_Chapter_12

Eukaryotes

Organisms whose cells contain a nucleus, including fungi, algae, protozoa, and helminths.

Mycology

The study of fungi.

Mycosis

A fungal infection, generally chronic, that affects the host.

Asexual reproduction

A reproductive process that involves only one parent organism, producing offspring genetically identical to the parent.

Sexual reproduction

A reproductive process that requires the fusion of male and female gametes, resulting in genetically diverse offspring.

Chemoheterotrophs

Organisms that obtain their energy and carbon from organic compounds.

Dimorphism

The ability of some fungi to exist in both yeast and mold forms, depending on environmental conditions.

Hyphae

Filamentous structures that make up the vegetative part of fungi, responsible for nutrient absorption.

Trophozoite

The active, feeding, and growing stage of protozoa.

Cyst

The dormant, resistant form of a protozoan that can survive in harsh environments.

Intermediate host

An organism that harbors the larval or asexual stages of a parasite.

Definitive host

An organism that harbors the adult, sexually mature form of a parasite.

Lichens

Mutualistic relationships between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria.

Algae

Photosynthetic organisms found mostly in aquatic environments that can be unicellular or multicellular.

Protozoa

Animal-like unicellular organisms that inhabit water and soil and are typically motile.

Opportunistic fungi

Fungi that typically do not cause disease but can become pathogenic under certain conditions.

Diatoms

A type of algae known for their unique silica cell walls, which do not easily decompose.

Helminths

Multicellular parasitic worms, including flatworms (platyhelminths) and roundworms (nematoda).

Sporangium

A sac that contains one or more asexual fungal spores, called sporangiospores.

Ciliates

Protozoa that possess cilia and have a specialized feeding structure called a cytostome.

Flagella

Whiplike structures used for locomotion by some protozoa.

Chlamydioconidia

A type of asexual fungal spore that is formed within the hyphae.

Sporotrichosis

A subcutaneous mycosis commonly found in gardeners and farmers caused by saprophytic fungi.

Cryptosporidium

An intestinal protozoan that causes diarrhea and can be transmitted via contaminated water.

Toxoplasma gondii

A protozoan that can cause congenital infections and is linked to exposure to cats.