Definition

A specialized structure in certain fungi that supports and carries sporangia, which are the parts that produce spores.

Example

The sporangiophore is essential for the reproduction of many types of fungi.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a sporangiophore?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a part of certain fungi that helps them reproduce.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know fungi had such unique structures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sporangiophore → It is formed from "spora" (from Greek 'spora', meaning seed or sowing) and "-gium" (from Greek 'gion', meaning vessel) combined with "-phore" (from Greek 'phoros', meaning bearer). The word refers to a structure that bears or carries spores, which are reproductive units in fungi and plants.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'bearer' ('-phore') that carries 'seeds' ('spora') in a 'vessel' ('-gium') — that's what a sporangiophore does.

Visually Confused Words