What causes a white, cottony surface growth on pickles?

✅Explanation:
Rhizopus is a type of fungus that commonly causes a white, cottony surface growth on pickles. This growth is a sign of spoilage, and the pickles should not be consumed. Rhizopus thrives in warm, moist environments and can quickly contaminate food.

• Why Rhizopus Grows on Pickles:
Environment: Pickles provide an ideal environment for Rhizopus to grow, as they are often stored in warm, humid conditions.
Nutrient-rich: Pickles are a good source of nutrients for Rhizopus, which helps the fungus to thrive.
Spores: Rhizopus spores are present in the air and can easily contaminate pickles if they are not properly sealed.

📌Other Options Explanations:
(b) Lactobacillus: Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process of making pickles. It helps to preserve the pickles and gives them their characteristic sour flavor.
(c) Aspergillus: Aspergillus is another type of fungus that can cause spoilage in food.
(d) Trichoderma: Trichoderma is a beneficial fungus used in agriculture and horticulture for its ability to control plant diseases.

🔑Key Points:
Rhizopus does not have motile sperm.
Gametangial copulation occurs in Rhizopus.
The terminal part of sub-aerial hyphae serves as coenogametes.
Coenogametes fuse to form a diploid zygote.
The diploid zygote develops into a resting spore called a zygospore.
The zygospore contains several diploid nuclei along with reserve material.
Meiosis occurs within the zygospore, resulting in the formation of spores.
Upon germination, these spores give rise to new mycelium.