Smuts

General Structure and Shape:

The smut spores may occur individually or in small groups, and are typically spherical in shape The surface of smut spores of some species are smooth while others may be ornamented with spines, warts or ridges. Also, the spore wall of some smut species is unevenly thickened with the ornamentation on the thin area different than the rest of the wall surface.

Allergenic Activity:

Smut spores are thought by many to be allergenic, though research is needed to determine the details of their allergenicity. Most research on smut spores has been conducted on their pathogenicity in plants.

Pathogenic Activity:

Smut spores are known to cause serious diseases in plants, sometimes destroying vast fields of domesticated crops, especially corn and wheat.