As terrestrial fungi, the 900 species that Zygomycota comprises dwell mostly in soil and decompose dead matter. Zygomycota also includes mycorrhizal fungi, some animal parasites and black bread mold, the most common species.

The zygomycetes contain 7 orders and 30 families. Their name comes from the way hta tthey reproduce sexually--they physically blend the gametangia to form a zygosporangium. These sporangium usually develop thick walls but remain as spores.

Zygomycetes mate in an interesting way. When two organisms come in contact with each other, finger-like outgrowths extend from each, and these outgrowths attach. Chemical signals determine whether the zygomycetes are compatible. If they are, the hyphae grow apart, but they double back and meet head on. The paired nuclei fuse and develop into zygosporangium, completing the cycle.

Procedures:
1. Observe bread mold under dissecting microscope.
2. Diagram.
3. Describe zygomycetes.