Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the fungus Alternaria alternata, a causative agent of respiratory allergies. Here, fungal threads of the vegetat

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Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the fungus Alternaria alternata, a causative agent of respiratory allergies. Here, fungal threads of the vegetative mycelium are seen, each thread is called a hypha, with a spore-producing fruiting body at centre right. Large amounts of spores are produced by this fungus, leading to its allergic properties. Alternaria alternata is a cause of both allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in which inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose occurs; and of allergic asthma. Asthma is the more serious condition, affecting the lungs. Repeated inhaling of fungal spores may cause hypersensitivity reactions. Magnification: x685 at 6x7cm size.

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Size: 4219px × 3386px
Photo credit: © E. GUEHO/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: allergen, allergic, allergy, alternaria, alternata, asthma, causing, eumycota, false-coloured, fungal, fungi, fungus, infection, mold, mould, mouldy, mycology, nature, naturemycology, rhinitis, sem, spores, type