Fungi use spores for reproduction and dispersal.
A spore is a reproductive unit that can develop into a new fungus, often after landing in a suitable environment. Fungi produce both sexual spores, formed through genetic recombination, and asexual spores, produced without the fusion of reproductive cells. Depending on the species, spores may be released from mushrooms, molds, puffballs, or microscopic reproductive structures.
Spores are especially effective because they are tiny and easily transported by air, water, animals, or physical disturbance. Some have protective walls that help them survive drought, cold, heat, or a shortage of nutrients. Certain fungi forcibly eject spores, while others release them passively or use animals to carry them.
Spores are not the same as seeds. Seeds contain an embryo and stored food produced by seed plants, whereas fungal spores are usually much simpler and do not contain a plant embryo. Buds and pollen are also plant structures, making them poor matches for fungal reproduction.