Definition

Noun: 1. The type genus of the family Mucoraceae: Genus Mucor is the defining genus for a family of fungi, serving as the reference point for its classification. 2. A genus of molds characterized by non-septate hyphae and sporangia: It refers to a group of fungal species that form a cottony, rapidly growing mold. These molds are identified by their coenocytic (non-septate) filaments and spherical sporangia that release sporangiospores. The sporangia are not restricted to forming only at points where anchoring rhizoids develop.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Genus Mucor is commonly found on decaying organic matter like bread, fruit, and soil.
  • Under the microscope, the non-septate hyphae and columellate sporangia are key identifiers for genus Mucor.
  • Some species within genus Mucor can cause opportunistic infections in humans.

Advanced Usage

• In Taxonomic Context: The name is always italicized in scientific writing to denote it as a genus. The first part () is capitalized.
  • The isolate was confirmed to belong to the genus Mucor.
• As a Representative Taxon: It is used to discuss characteristics common to the entire genus.
  • A defining feature of genus Mucor is the presence of a columella within the sporangium.

Variants and Related Words

• Mucor (n): The singular form, often used to refer to a member or species of this genus.
  • A Mucor species was isolated from the sample.
• Mucoraceous (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the family Mucoraceae or the genus .
  • The mucoraceous mold spread across the culture plate.
• Mucormycosis (n): An infection caused by fungi in the order Mucorales, which includes .
  • Immunocompromised patients are at risk for mucormycosis.

Synonyms

• Mucor (when used informally to refer to the genus)
• Mold genus (a general descriptive term, not a precise synonym)

Notes on Different Meanings

• The term "genus Mucor" has a single, specific meaning in scientific (mycological) context. It does not have common, everyday meanings or idiomatic uses outside of biology and medicine. It refers exclusively to this taxonomic group of fungi.

Noun

1. type genus of the Mucoraceae; genus of molds having cylindrical or pear-shaped sporangia not limited in location to points where rhizoids develop