Most fungi are capable of asexual and sexual reproduction . Asexual reproduction is by fragmentation or spore formation. Those that reproduce sexually produce gametes in specialized areas of the hyphae called gametangia. The gametes may be released to fuse into spores elsewhere, or the gametangia themselves may fuse. Typically they release digestive enzymes onto a food source, partially dissolving it to make the necessary organic or inorganic nutrients available.
Some parasitic types obtain their food directly from the cells of a living food source.
Some fungi are pathogenic to humans and other animals. Such diseases are called mycoses or fungal infections . Some molds, in particular, release toxic chemicals called mycotoxins that can result in poisoning or death. Licensed from Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.