When you keep food items like bread and fruits outside for a long time especially during the rainy season, you will observe a cottony growth on them.

(a) What is this growth called?

(b) How does the growth take place?

(a) The growth is called a mould. It is formed by fungus.

(b) The growth takes place through spore formation. The parent produces hundreds of spores which are released into the air. The spores have a protective coat that protects them from unfavorable conditions. These are randomly scattered to various places by wind, water etc. Under suitable conditions, the spores would fall into places like moist bread pieces. The spores germinate to form new individuals. This process continues.