Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Rhizopus stolonifer is a species of filamentous fungi commonly known as black bread mold. It primarily grows on bread and other carbohydrate-rich substrates.
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Rhizopus stolonifer reproduces both sexually and asexually, forming sporangia that release spores.
It is an opportunistic pathogen and can cause infections in immunocompromised individuals.
This fungus plays a role in the spoilage of stored food products due to its rapid growth.
Under favorable conditions, Rhizopus stolonifer can produce zygospores through sexual reproduction.
It has industrial applications, including the production of organic acids and alcohol fermentation.
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Related terms
Zygospore: A thick-walled resting cell formed by certain fungi during sexual reproduction.
Sporangium: A structure in which spores are produced, typically found in fungi like Rhizopus stolonifer.
Opportunistic Pathogen: An organism that causes disease primarily when a host's immune system is compromised.