microfungi

Microfungi is a broad, informal term used to describe small fungi that are typically microscopic in their growth form, including yeasts and molds. They are eukaryotes with cell walls made of chitin and, in contrast to many macrofungi, often have extensive hyphal networks or exist as single cells. Many microfungi reproduce by spores, including conidia, sporangiospores, and in some lineages, sexual spores such as ascospores or basidiospores. Some species are dimorphic, forming yeast-like cells at certain temperatures.

Ecology and habitats: Microfungi are widespread in soil, decaying organic matter, plant surfaces, stored foods, indoor environments, and on skin and mucous membranes. They are typically saprotrophs, decomposing organic material, but many are plant pathogens, food spoilers, or opportunistic pathogens of humans and animals. Some produce secondary metabolites, including mycotoxins that can contaminate crops and foodstuffs.

Economic and health significance: Beneficial roles include fermentation, enzyme production, antibiotics (e.g., Penicillium-derived penicillin), and biotechnological applications. However, they also pose risks: allergic reactions, invasive infections in immunocompromised individuals, and quality losses in food and crops.

Study and identification: Identification relies on morphology (conidiophores, spores), culture characteristics, and molecular methods such as sequencing of ribosomal DNA. Growth conditions are variable; many require moisture and warmth. Fungi are distinguished from bacteria by eukaryotic cells, hyphal structure, and chitin-containing cell walls.