Difference Between Endospore and Exospore

Difference Between Endospore and Exospore: Endospores and Exospores both are reproductive and unicellular structures. These structures are formed by bacteria, fungi, and algae. The major difference is endospores are formed inside the mother cell whereas exospores are formed at the end of the mother cell. They differ from each other in regards to parameters such as the way they are produced, released, use of cell division, formation with mother cell, and other affecting environmental factors. Spores are the reproductive and unicellular structures. The main difference between endospores and exospores is based on the position of the spore.

Difference Between Endospore and Exospore

Below is the detailed difference between Endospore and Exospore:

Endospore

Endospores are defined as a resistant structure that is formed by bacteria. Endospores are formed inside the mother cell. This resistance created by bacteria helps them to survive during unfavorable environmental conditions. When environmental conditions are favorable the Endospores germinate in order to produce a new organism. Endospores consist of cytoplasm and DNA. The cell wall of the endospore is made of dipicolinic acid. This acid provides heat resistance to the endospores.

Exospore

Exospore is a different type of resistant bacteria that are formed by fungus and algae. This resistant structure reproduces under unfavorable environmental conditions. Exospores are formed outside the mother cell. These exospores come out as a bud at the end of the mother cell. This bud is then released from the mother cell for the germination process under favorable environmental conditions.

Similarities Between Endospores and Exospores

1. Endospore and Exospore both spores are produced under unfavorable environmental conditions.
2. Endospore and Exospore both are unicellular and have a resistant structure.
3. The process of making spores in both types of known as sporulation.
4. Endospores and Exospores both are reproductive cells.