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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Dikaryon and Heterokaryon?

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Dikaryon and heterokaryon are both terms used to describe cells that contain two or more genetically distinct nuclei within a common cytoplasm. However, there are some differences between the two:

  • Number of nuclei: A dikaryon is a cell that contains precisely two genetically distinct nuclei, while a heterokaryon is a cell that contains two or more genetically distinct nuclei.
  • Fungal specificity: Dikaryons are unique to fungi, while heterokaryons can be found in both fungi and slime molds.

In summary, the main differences between dikaryons and heterokaryons are the number of nuclei in the cell and the organisms in which they are found. Dikaryons have two genetically distinct nuclei and are unique to fungi, while heterokaryons have two or more genetically distinct nuclei and can be found in both fungi and slime molds.

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  • What is the Difference Between Dikaryon and Heterokaryon?
  • Comparative Table: Dikaryon vs Heterokaryon

    • Comparative Table: Dikaryon vs Heterokaryon

    Here is a table comparing the differences between dikaryon and heterokaryon:

    Feature Dikaryon Heterokaryon
    Definition A cell containing exactly two genetically distinct nuclei. A cell containing two or more genetically distinct nuclei.
    Occurrence Fungal cells. Cells of fungi and slime molds.
    Number of Nuclei Contains precisely two nuclei. Contains two or more nuclei.
    Sexual Reproduction Dikaryon is a stage in the sexual life cycle of some fungi, such as Basidiomycota and Ascomycota. Heterokaryon is a more general term that includes dikaryon and other cases with multiple nuclei.

    Both dikaryon and heterokaryon are stages in the sexual life cycles of some fungi, but dikaryon specifically refers to a cell with two genetically distinct nuclei, while heterokaryon refers to a cell with two or more such nuclei.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.