Neurospora crassa

Neurospora crassa is a type of fungus often used in scientific research. Commonly known as red bread mold, it grows on decaying plant material and has a distinctive orange-red color when it produces spores. Researchers study N. crassa because it has a simple genome, allowing them to explore genetics, development, and cellular processes. It played a significant role in discovering how genes work, earning its place in genetics education. Its ability to thrive in various environments makes it a model organism for understanding more complex biological systems.