Spirogyra reproduces both sexually and asexually.
Asexual Reproduction
Asexual reproduction in Spirogyra occurs through a simple process:
- Fragmentation: The filaments of Spirogyra simply break into smaller pieces. Each fragment is capable of growing into a new, independent filament.
Sexual Reproduction
Sexual reproduction in Spirogyra is achieved through a process called conjugation.
- Conjugation: This process involves two filaments of Spirogyra aligning side-by-side. Outgrowths then form, creating conjugation tubes that connect the cells of the two filaments. According to the reference, cells of two filaments lying side by side are joined by outgrowths called conjugation tubes. This allows the transfer of genetic material and subsequent formation of a zygospore, which will eventually germinate to form a new filament.
In summary, Spirogyra utilizes both fragmentation for asexual reproduction and conjugation for sexual reproduction, as highlighted in the reference.
