Conidia are asexual spores produced by certain fungi, particularly those in the group known as Ascomycetes and Deuteromycetes. These spores are formed at the tips of specialized structures called conidiophores and are released into the environment to help the fungus reproduce and spread. When conditions are favorable, conidia can germinate and develop into new fungal organisms. They play a crucial role in the life cycle of fungi, allowing them to colonize new substrates and environments. Conidia are often involved in the infection processes of plant diseases, making them significant in agriculture and ecology.