Explain the asexual reproduction in Rhizopus.

Explanation

Reproduction:
Rhizopus reproduces by asexual and sexual methods.
Asexual reproduction:
1. During favorable conditions, erect sporangiophores are produced exactly opposite to the region of formation of rhizoids of the mycelium.
2. The sporangiophores are unicellular, unbranched and multinucleate structures which bear bag like structure called sporangia.
3. Each sporangiophore bears a single sporangium.
4. Sporangium possesses a sterile region in the centre called columella.
5. Spores are produced around the columella.
6. When the sporangial wall breaks, the columella collapses and the spores are dispersed.
7. When the spores fall on a suitable substratum they germinate and produce new mycelia.