The class of fungi in which sexual reproduction is totally absent

Options

A. Phycomycetes
B. Ascomycetes
C. Basidiomycetes
D. Deuteromycetes

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the class of fungi where sexual reproduction is completely absent.

2. **Identifying Fungal Classes**: There are several classes of fungi, including:
- Zygomycetes
- Ascomycetes
- Basidiomycetes
- Deuteromycetes (also known as Fungi Imperfecti)

3. **Analyzing Deuteromycetes**: Deuteromycetes are known as "imperfect fungi" because they do not have a known sexual reproduction stage in their life cycle. They primarily reproduce asexually by producing spores through mitosis.

4. **Comparing Other Classes**:
- **Zygomycetes**: These fungi reproduce sexually through the formation of zygospores.
- **Ascomycetes**: This class reproduces sexually and is characterized by the formation of ascospores.
- **Basidiomycetes**: These fungi also reproduce sexually, producing basidiospores.

5. **Conclusion**: Since Deuteromycetes are the only class of fungi that completely lack a sexual reproduction stage, the answer to the question is Deuteromycetes.

**Final Answer**: The class of fungi in which sexual reproduction is totally absent is **Deuteromycetes**.

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