How Do Coenocytic Hyphae Differ from Septate Hyphae?
While coenocytic hyphae lack septa, septate hyphae have walls that divide the hyphae into individual, interconnected cells. This fundamental difference affects various aspects of fungal biology, including:
Cytoplasmic streaming: More efficient in coenocytic hyphae due to the lack of septa. Damage response: Septate hyphae can isolate damaged sections by closing septal pores, a feature absent in coenocytic hyphae. Growth dynamics: Coenocytic hyphae can expand rapidly without the need to form new septa.
