Basidiomycetes Life Cycle Class 11 | Biological Classification | NEET 2025

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The life cycle of basidiomycetes, a class of fungi that includes mushrooms, puffballs, and shelf fungi, is a fascinating process characterized by sexual reproduction and the formation of specialized structures called basidia.

Haploid Mycelium Formation:
The life cycle begins with the germination of haploid basidiospores. These spores grow into a network of filamentous cells called primary mycelium. This haploid mycelium is monokaryotic, meaning each cell contains a single nucleus.

Plasmogamy:
When two compatible haploid mycelia meet, they fuse in a process called plasmogamy. This results in the formation of a dikaryotic mycelium, where each cell contains two distinct nuclei (one from each parent).

Dikaryotic Mycelium Growth:
The dikaryotic mycelium is more robust and can persist for years. It forms an extensive underground network, often serving as the main body of the fungus. Under suitable environmental conditions, the dikaryotic mycelium develops into a fruiting body, commonly recognized as a mushroom.

Fruiting Body Development:
The fruiting body is composed of tightly packed dikaryotic hyphae. It emerges above the ground and contains specialized structures called gills or pores, depending on the species. These structures house the basidia, which are critical for reproduction.

Karyogamy:
Within the basidia, the two nuclei in each cell fuse in a process called karyogamy, forming a diploid nucleus. This is the only diploid stage in the life cycle and is typically brief.

Meiosis:
The diploid nucleus undergoes meiosis, producing four haploid nuclei. These nuclei migrate into basidiospores that are formed on the exterior of the basidia.

Spore Release and Dispersal:
The mature basidiospores are released into the environment, often aided by wind or other external forces. If they land in a suitable habitat, the spores germinate to form new haploid mycelia, completing the cycle.


CHAPTERS
Chapter 1: Introduction 0:00
Chapter 2: The Spore 0:55
Chapter 3: Body Structure 1:57
Chapter 4: Plasmogamy 2:40
Chapter 5: Secondary Mycelium 3:40
Chapter 6: Basidiocarp 3:54
Chapter 7: Karyogamy and Meiosis 5:07
Chapter 8: Fairy Rings 6:25
Chapter 9: New Website 7:00
Chapter 10: Examples 7:50