Asexual reproduction in ascomycetous fungi takes place by

Options

A. Gametangia
B. Conidiophore
C. Exospores
D. Endospores

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Asexual Reproduction in Fungi:**
- Asexual reproduction in fungi is a process by which new individuals are produced without the fusion of gametes. In the case of ascomycetous fungi, this process is crucial for their propagation.

2. **Identifying the Reproductive Structures:**
- Ascomycetous fungi can produce two main types of reproductive structures:
- **Conidiophores**: These are specialized structures that produce conidia, which are asexual spores.
- **Gametangia**: These structures are involved in sexual reproduction, not asexual reproduction.

3. **Analyzing the Options:**
- **Option 1: Gametangia** - This is incorrect as gametangia are associated with sexual reproduction.
- **Option 2: Conidiophore** - This is the correct answer as conidiophores are responsible for asexual reproduction in ascomycetous fungi.
- **Option 3: Endospores** - These are primarily produced by bacteria and are not typical of ascomycetous fungi.
- **Option 4: Exospores** - While fungi can produce exospores, they are not the primary means of asexual reproduction in ascomycetes.

4. **Conclusion:**
- The correct answer to the question is **Option 2: Conidiophore**. Asexual reproduction in ascomycetous fungi takes place by the formation of conidiophores, which produce conidia.

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