mesomycete

Mesomycetozoa is a super-group of eukaryotic organisms that includes both fungi and certain unicellular eukaryotes traditionally considered protozoa. The name mesomycetozoa is derived from Greek and Latin roots, meaning "middle fungus animal," reflecting its phylogenetic position. This group was established based on molecular phylogenetic studies, which revealed a deep evolutionary divergence between fungi and animals, with mesomycetozoa representing a lineage branching between them.

Within Mesomycetozoa, the major components are the fungi, including well-known groups like yeasts and molds, and the choanomonads. Choanomonads are a group of flagellated protozoa characterized by a collar of microvilli surrounding their flagellum, and they are known to be the closest living relatives of animals. The inclusion of these seemingly disparate groups into a single super-group highlights the complexity of eukaryotic evolution and the limitations of traditional classifications based solely on morphology.

The study of mesomycetozoa is crucial for understanding the early evolution of eukaryotes and the origins of multicellularity. It provides insights into the relationships between different eukaryotic lineages and the development of complex cellular structures and functions. Research in this area continues to refine our understanding of the tree of life and the evolutionary history of eukaryotes.