Septate hyphae

Definition

Septate hyphae are fungal filaments characterized by their segmented structure with cross-walls called septa. These septa divide the hyphae into distinct, individual cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Septate hyphae contain septa which have pores allowing for cytoplasmic streaming between cells.
2. They are typically found in higher fungi such as Ascomycota and Basidiomycota.
3. The septa provide structural support and can compartmentalize damage within the hyphae.
4. Septate hyphae can still grow even if parts of the filament are damaged or broken.
5. Each segment of a septate hypha can contain one or more nuclei.

Review Questions

Related terms

Coenocytic Hyphae: Fungal filaments without septa, forming a continuous cytoplasm with multiple nuclei.

Mycelium:

A network of fungal hyphae that forms the vegetative part of a fungus.

Chitin:

A polysaccharide forming the cell walls of fungi, including those with septate and coenocytic hyphae.