Plasmogamy occurs by the following methods :
- a) Planogametic copulation/ Gametic fusion : This is the simplest form of sexual reproduction. In this process, fusion of two gametes of opposite sex or strains takes place. One or both of the fusing gametes are motile. It results in the formation of a diploid zygote, e.g., Allomyces.
- b) Gametangial contact : In this process two gametangia come in contact with one another. A fertilization tube is developed to facilitate the migration of entire contents of male gametangiuminto the female gametangium. Both the gametangia never fuse together losing their identity, e.g., Pythuium, Albugo(Oomycetes).
- c) Gametangial copulation : In this process direct fusion of entire contents of two gametangia is accomplished by dissolution of their common walls resulting in the formation of a single cell, in which protoplasts of two gametangia fuse , e.g., Mucor, Rhizopus (Zygomycetes).
- d) Spermatization : Some fungi produce many minute, spore like, single –called structures called spermatia (non motile mate gametes) on spermatiophores (hyphae). These structures are transferred through agencies like water, wind and insects to special female receptive hyphae (Basidiomycets). The contents migrate into receptive structure. Thus, dikaryotic condition is established, e.g., Puccinia.
- e) Somatogamy : This takes place in most of the higher true fungi, where formation of gemetes absent. In such fungi, direct fusion of somatic hyphal cells occurs to establish dikaryophase g., Agaricus
