Heterothallic: It in a condition of fungi in which male and female reproductive structures occur in different thalli. Therefore, the main importance of this condition is the requirement of a compatible mating partner in order to undergo sexual reproduction. It brings a totally different genetic condition in the heterothallic organisms in contrast to those that are homothallic.

Heterothallic Reproduction

Actually, sexual reproduction occurs when the two opposite mating partners come into contact. Therefore, the formation of the zygote brings the gametes of two genetically different partners together, increasing the genetic variation of the population. Also, the genetic drift is prevented in heterothallic condition and no genomic maladaptation can occur.

Examples of heterothallism: Penicillium, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. On the other hand, Aspergillus species is an example of homothallism. The main difference between heterothallism and homothallism is the type of the reproductive structures that are present on the thallus and the effect of the reproduction.

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By Team Learning Mantras