Question

In Rhizopus, asexual reproduction takes place by
A. Spore
B. Budding
C. Binary fission
D. Vegetative propagation

Answer 1

Hint: It is capable of reproducing new individuals without fusion with other individuals.

Complete answer : Rhizopus, belongs to the family of Zygomycetes fungi. They are multicellular fungi that live on dead and decaying plants. They exhibit a complex metabolism with about eight species. They are responsible for causing infection in humans and animals which is called mucormycosis. Rhizopus can grow as filamentous with branching hyphae which are multinucleated.
Rhizopus can be produce by asexual and sexual reproduction. Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction which do not involve any fusion or without exchanging any genetic information. Sexual reproduction is a type of reproduction which involves fusion of gametes or by combining the genetic information. Spores are the cell that involves reproduction and they have thick walls, resist high temperature conditions, humidity and other environmental conditions. In Rhizopus, asexual reproduction takes place by spores where sporangiospores are produced inside a spherical structure called sporangium. Sexual reproduction in Rhizopus takes place by fusion of multinucleate (gametangia).

Additional information: Budding: Budding is also a form of asexual reproduction in the living organisms which forms from the bud of existing organisms. Example: Jellyfish, flatworms, yeast.
Binary fission: Binary fission is also a type asexual reproduction and it involves the separation of the body into two new bodies. It does not take place in Rhizopus. Example: Amoeba
Vegetative propagation: It is a method which produces new plants from vegetative parts of the original plant. Example: Tuber of potatoes.

Thus, the correct answer is option A. i.e. Spores.

Notes: Spores are the microscopic bodies. In Rhizopus, various spores are produced within the sac which is called sporangia. These are knob-like structures. Spores are of two types: (1) Aplanospores(non-motile spores). (2) Zoospores(motile spores).