Spore

A form taken by certain microbes that enables them to exist in a dormant stage. It is an asexual reproductive cell. See Asexual reproduction, Dormant.

1. A reproductive cell that develops into an individual without union with other cells; some spores such as meiospores are the product of the germ line, but others are asexual in nature. 2. A small, protected resting body, often synthesized by micro-organisms when nutrient levels are low.

A term used to describe a particle in plants, bacteria and fungi.