myxomycetes
Học thuậtThân thiện
A student observes a myxomycetes specimen under a microscope in the biology lab.
Definition
Noun 1. A taxonomic class of organisms: "Myxomycetes" refers to a class within the kingdom Protista, commonly known as the true slime molds or acellular slime molds. These are fungus-like organisms that live as a plasmodium—a single, multinucleate mass of protoplasm without cell walls—during their feeding stage.
Examples of Usage
- The myxomycetes are fascinating to biologists because of their unique life cycle.
- Under the microscope, the plasmodium of the myxomycetes exhibits streaming cytoplasmic movement.
- This forest floor is an ideal habitat for many species of myxomycetes.
Advanced Usage
- In scientific classification: The term is used precisely in taxonomy and mycology. While historically grouped with fungi, modern classification often places them in Protista.
- The phylogenetic position of the Myxomycetes continues to be a subject of research.
Variants and Related Words
- Myxomycete (singular noun): An individual organism belonging to the class Myxomycetes.
- We found a fascinating myxomycete on the decaying log.
- Myxomycota (noun): A division or phylum name that is essentially equivalent to the class Myxomycetes.
- Plasmodial slime molds: A common descriptive name for this group.
- Acellular slime molds: Another common name, distinguishing them from cellular slime molds (Dictyosteliida).
Synonyms
- True slime molds
- Plasmodial slime molds
- Acellular slime molds
Related Terms and Phrases
- Plasmodium: The vegetative, feeding stage of the myxomycetes.
- Spore: The reproductive unit; myxomycetes produce spores within often intricate fruiting bodies.
- Fruiting body: The spore-producing structure formed by the plasmodium.
A student observes a myxomycetes specimen under a microscope in the biology lab.
Noun
- the class of true slime molds; essentially equivalent to the division Myxomycota