Scientists have discovered that an infectious fungus can mate and produce offspring with members of both sexes, giving it an advantage because those infected usually harbor a single mating type. “An infectious fungus has been found to defy the most basic tenet of sexual reproduction – that successful mating requires individuals of the opposite sex.”
The fungus, Cryptococcus neoformans, is most dangerous to those with immune-compromised systems. Scientists are excited about the fungus’ potential in other areas of study: “Discovery of the same-sex mating might also help elucidate basic principles governing the evolution of sex.”
