Dimorphic fungi

Definition

Dimorphic fungi are fungi that can exist in two different morphological forms: as molds at lower temperatures and as yeasts at higher temperatures. This ability allows them to adapt to varying environmental conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dimorphic fungi switch between mold and yeast forms depending on temperature, typically below 30°C for mold and above 37°C for yeast.
2. They are often pathogenic to humans, causing diseases such as histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and coccidioidomycosis.
3. Dimorphism is regulated by environmental factors such as temperature, CO2 levels, and nutrient availability.
4. These fungi reproduce sexually or asexually depending on their form; molds reproduce via spore formation while yeasts reproduce by budding.
5. Common examples of dimorphic fungi include Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Coccidioides immitis.

Review Questions

Related terms

Mycelium:

The vegetative part of a fungus consisting of a network of fine white filaments (hyphae).

Conidia:

Asexual spores produced by certain fungi.

Pathogenicity:

The ability of an organism to cause disease.