Oosporen
Oosporen, or oospores, are thick-walled, sexually produced resting spores formed by certain oomycetes (water molds) and, in some algal groups, as part of an oogamous fertilization process. They arise when an oogonium is fertilized by an antheridium, resulting in a diploid oospore that serves as a dormant survival stage. Oospores are notable for their durability under adverse environmental conditions and for enabling long-term persistence in soil, plant debris, or water.
Formation and function: In the sexual cycle of many oomycetes, the fusion of male and female gametangia
Structure and characteristics: Oospores have a thick, protective wall and often contain stored reserves; their nucleus
Ecology and significance: Oospores play a key role in the disease cycles of many oomycete pathogens, including
Notes: The term is primarily used for oomycetes; in other lineages, similar resting structures may be described