Rhizopus is a genus of common saprophytic fungi—molds that typically live on dead organic matter—known for their rapid growth and broad impact on both industry and health. Members of this genus, such as Rhizopus stolonifer (the common black bread mold), are ubiquitous in soil, air, and decaying vegetation. 🧬 Biology and Structure

: Root-like structures that anchor the mold and absorb nutrients, a key feature distinguishing them from the similar genus Mucor .

Rhizopus species are characterized by their distinct physical architecture and reproductive methods: