Definition: The word "actinomycetous" refers to a type of fungus that produces spores through a process called vegetative reproduction, where it reproduces by growing new shoots from its cells. These spores are then dispersed into the environment as viable reproductive units. Actinomycetes are a group of bacteria and fungi that produce spores through their cell division mechanism. They typically have a simple rod-shaped cell structure with a small, fimbrous flagella. Some actinomycetes also possess a cytoplasmic flagellum, which is similar to the flagellum found on human cells. Actinomycetes are characterized by their high metabolic rate and their ability to utilize large amounts of carbon dioxide per gram of biomass. They can synthesize enzymes from simple sugars and amino acids in the atmosphere or through photosynthesis using the light-independent energy source nitrate. The "actinomycetous" word is often used to describe an organism that uses spores as its primary reproduction mechanism, with the term referring to a group of fungi that produce spores.

actinomycetous