Chapter 21.3, Problem 2MI

Summary Introduction

To define: 

Spore.

Introduction:

To continue its race, every organisms produce their own kind. They reproduce either by sexual means or asexual means. Spore is one such means of asexual reproduction in plants, fungi, algae and other protists.

Explanation of Solution

Spore is a haploid reproductive cell in plants, fungi, algae and other protists. It is a means of asexual reproduction and is generally single-celled structure. It has ability to develop into a new organism. Unlike gametes produced during sexual reproduction, spores do not fuse in order to produce new individual during reproduction.

Conclusion

Spore is a reproductive haploid cell with a hard outer coat that can develop into a new organism without the fusion.