mating type

views updated

mating type The equivalent in lower organisms (especially micro-organisms) of sexes in higher organisms. Micro-organisms may be subdivided into mating types on the basis of their physiology and mating behaviour. Different mating types are usually identical in physical form, although individuals of one mating type possess on their surfaces proteins that will bind to complementary proteins or polysaccharides found only on the coats of individuals of the opposite mating type. In this way, only individuals of different mating types will undergo conjugation.

More From encyclopedia.com